5 Tips to Finding a Good Buyer Agent When Purchasing Real Estate

With Summer coming to a close (sigh), the expectations for the Fall Real Estate Market are good.  Just recently, the Canadian Real Estate Association raised its forecast for sales.  This translates into more listings and more buyers. With more than 90% of all homes sold transacted through the MLS with REALTORS, there is a great demand for buyer agents to help buyers through the buying process.

And, let's face it - in every profession there are good ones and not so good ones.  When buying real estate it is of the utmost importance that you find not only a knowledgeable, competent and dedicated professional, but also one who you connect with and trust.

Many buyers today are interviewing their REALTORs just as sellers interview their representatives - and that is the first step to finding a good representative who truly has YOUR best interests in mind.

Here are 5 tips to help you find a great REALTOR.

1. Ask around. The first place to start looking for a buyer's agent is by asking friends and family. Did they like their agent? How was their experience? Recommendations are a good place to start, but don't feel pressured to use your sister's agent or your friend's mom's cousin who happens to work in real estate. Go through the rest of the tips before deciding.

2. Check credentials. Is his or her license current or are there any complaints registered about him? Do they have advanced accreditation, such as ABR (Accredited Buyer's Representative) or CRS (Certified Residential Specialist)  Designations aren't everything, but they do show commitment to the profession. Don't hesitate to ask to see their sales volume or references. An agent who is active and recommended must be doing something right.

3. Have a trial period. This is the tip most people skip, but I think it's one of the most important. If he or she doesn't mention it first, ask to sign a buyer's contract for the day, so that you can see how you work together. Think of it as dating — you didn't marry the first person who asked you to dinner. Did the agent understand what you were looking for and is that represented in the day's showings? They'll get paid if you decide to purchase any of the properties they show you, and you're not stuck with them if you can't stand to be in the same car by the end of the day.

4. Trust your gut. If after your day out with your potential agent, something doesn't feel right, listen to your intuition. You should like your agent and know that they have your best interests in mind. You could be working with them for a year or more, so if there's a personality clash or a trust issue, find someone else.

5. Sign a BRA. A Buyer Representative Agreement protects both you and your a REALTOR. It outlines in writing what is expected from each party. If you don't have a contract, your REALTOR is only a facilitator of the transaction and doesn't represent your interests.  A true professional will explain everything in detail and you should leave a buyer counselling session with the feeling that you know everything about the buying process and nothing will come as a surprise.

Hopefully these tips help your real estate transaction go smoothly. I look forward to you calling me in for that interview ... Happy house hunting!