Finding The Right Local Expert
How to find the right real estate agent?
At Savvy Homebuyer®, we understand the significance of selecting an experienced real estate agent when buying a home. With nearly 2 million licensed real estate professionals nationwide, navigating the vast array of agents may seem impossible.
Partnering with the right agent becomes even more important when using specialized loan products like the VA Home Loan and USDA Loan. These programs require an agent who understands how to position homebuyers for success with these types of mortgage products.
Online
There are many different websites that allow you to browse real estate agent profiles in hopes of finding the one that is right for you. Zillow, Homelight, and realtor.com will all show agents available in your city.
Beware there are no qualifications standards to be featured on these websites. Any agent with any track record (or lack thereof) can request to have a profile and be featured.
This is why you NEED to know how to properly interview an agent.
Referred By a Friend
One of the best ways to find an agent is to ask for a referral from a friend.
If you have someone you trust that recently went through the home-buying process ask them about their experience.
Did they feel that their agent was professional, available, and responsive?
Now that they have moved into their new home would they use that agent again?
Use a Savvy Homebuying Expert
Our Savvy Homebuying agents have passed a rigorous professional vetting process to support you in your home purchase.
When you use a Savvy Homebuying® Agent You wont have to worry about a rigorous interview process. We have already verified their sales record and confirmed their reviews.
Our Savvy Homebuying® Agents are verified local experts.
Why should you get pre-approved for your home loan before you speak with an agent?
Before starting your home search, it’s wise to consult a lender. Speaking with a mortgage professional will allow you to gauge how much of a mortgage payment can comfortably fit within your budget and set realistic expectations and make informed decisions more quickly – at Savvy Homebuyer® we recommend having this conversation first for an easy home-buying journey!
In competitive markets sellers and listing agents often require buyers to submit their mortgage pre-approval letter prior to scheduling a showing. So, securing a preapproval now gives you an edge to help ease your journey to homeownership!
What will my agent will do for me?
They will educate you about the local housing market.
Every real estate market is different. Buying a home in Nashville is completely different than buying a home in San Diego. This is why it is so important to work with a local expert who is knowledgeable about communities, properties, and norms in your area.
They will assist in your home search and set up showings.
Your agent will set up listing appointments for properties you’re interested in and show you similar listings, off-market options, and exceptional properties in different areas that may better suit your needs. They can provide virtual tours via FaceTime if you can’t be there in person and share detailed pictures and video recaps to ensure you have all the necessary information.
They will protect your interest in the transaction.
Your real estate agent has a fiduciary responsibility to protect your interests when purchasing a home. A real estate broker becomes an agent of a seller or buyer, either intentionally through the execution of a written agreement or unintentionally by a course of conduct. Your agent must adhere to standards in loyalty, confidentiality, disclosure, obedience, responsible care and diligence and even accounting.
They will connect you with local vendors for inspections and home repairs.
Your agent is a great resource for local connections like movers, inspectors, handymen, contractors, designers, and local service providers.