« | Home

Interviewing a Utah Real Estate Agent

By Kerry Oman | December 1, 2011

If you’re getting ready to look at homes for sale in Springville, it’s important to have a Utah real estate agent you trust at your side. Today’s Utah real estate market offers great opportunities in home ownership, regardless of whether you’re a cautious first-time buyer, or if you’re transferring here in a whirlwind decision.

That’s why you want a Utah agent who is not only knowledgeable about the current market and negotiating a great deal, but also someone who knows you and is willing to work hard, long after the business day comes to a close. Like interviewing a nanny or a potential employee, you should take the time to find the right Springville real estate agent for you and your family.

Look at his or her “resume.” By resume, we’re not as concerned with job history so much as the agent’s background and experience in the Springville real estate market. Ask how long the agent has been in business, what sort of education he or she has related to real estate, and if there are any references you can contact.

Ask why you should consider them, specifically. Without putting the real estate agent on the spot, ask what characteristics or features make him or her a better choice than the competition. These can be personal traits (like honesty or a friendly demeanor) or professional ones (great negotiating skills or a willingness to work on evenings and weekends).

Questions should be reciprocated. While interviewing potential Utah real estate agents means that you will be asking most of the questions, you want to make sure the agent is interested in learning about you, as well. After all, if the agent doesn’t ask about your motivations, what inspires you, or your long- and short-term real estate goals, how will he or she find you the right home?

Consider the agent’s fee structure and termination policies. The agent you choose should have a set fee structure (usually a percentage of the sale). He or she should be honest and upfront about this cost from the first day, and you should be comfortable with the percentage you agree on before you contract to work together. You should also determine what the proper procedure is should you decide to go with another agent at a future date.

Ask what happens if a disagreement arises. As is the case with any business, there may be disagreements or conflicts between you and your Springville real estate agent. Perhaps you want to look at houses in a different price category, or maybe you want more time to review documents before you sign them. How you and your agent handle conflict will determine how good your home buying experience is.

Once you set out to explore homes for sale in Springville with an agent you know you can count on, you’ll be sure to find the perfect place to call home. After all, if you’re willing to trust in your agent, you might find that there are Utah County real estate options you would have never considered.

Like a good friend, and an even better business partner, the right Utah real estate agent will help you get everything you want out of your new home.

Topics: Springville Real Estate, Utah County Real Estate | No Comments »

Comments