A real estate agent can be an invaluable asset in the real estate process, whether you are buying a home or selling one. You and your agent will likely spend a lot of time with each other during this process, and your sale or purchase can hinge on your agent's ability to perform well. It can make a big difference in the real estate process when you choose the right real estate agent for your needs. Starting off with the right agent can also help you avoid real estate litigation in the future.

Tips for Selecting the Perfect Real Estate Agent

• Ask for references from friends and family members: oftentimes, the best measure of a real estate agent's success is the opinion of a former client. If you don't know where to start in your search for a real estate agent, ask someone you trust who has recently purchased or sold a home. If he or she was unsatisfied with her agent, it might be a red flag.
• Stay local: the best agent for your needs is going to be someone who works primarily in the area where you are selling or looking into purchasing your home. These agents will know the pros and cons of certain areas, and can often give you the inside scoop on the location that an out-of-town agent might not be aware of.
• Ask for a list of houses the agent sold or contracted: this will give you an idea of the type and price range of properties the agent deals with on a regular basis. If you are purchasing or selling a multi-million dollar property, you'll want an agent who has experiences in high-dollar closings; conversely, if you are purchasing a more cost-efficient property, a realtor who specializes in luxury properties may not be of as much help to you.
• Ask what market the agent primarily focuses in: if you are looking to purchase a home, you will want to find a real estate agent who primarily focuses on the buyer side of real estate contracts. An agent who primarily sells homes may have a different outlook on the real estate process than a buying agent.
• Ask for credentials: while the length of time an agent has been working doesn't necessarily correlate with their success, it's important to gauge the expertise of your potential real estate agent. Ask for an estimate of how many properties an agent has sold or contracted, along with the price asked versus the contracted price of their properties. In addition, ask the agent if he or she is a member of any agent organizations. Finally, make sure that your realtor is licensed in New York State.

Selling or Purchasing a Home? Melvin Monachan can Help

Whatever side of the residential or commercial closing process, when the time comes to close on your property, you will want the assistance of a skilled attorney who knows the ins and outs of real estate transactions in New York. If you are looking for a real estate attorney, Melvin Monachan is here to help--to learn more about the closing process or to schedule your closing, fill out an online contact form or call (347) 620-0565 today.