Real Estate in Greenville, SC: What to Look For in Your Agent
If you’re planning to buy or sell a property, a real estate agent can be of great help. Not only does he have contacts to make a transaction easily, but he also knows where and how to find a market or a client. But how do you find a great real estate in Greenville, SC, and what should you look for when selecting one?
Before beginning your search, it’s essential to decide what type of agent you need. There are buyers agents, sellers agents, and there are those that do both.
Buyer Agents, Seller Agents, or Both?
Buyers agents will assist with finding listings within your budget, arrange showings, and help negotiate the best deal on your behalf. Once an offer is accepted, the buying agent will guide you through the closing process.
Sellers agents, also known as listing agents, primarily help you determine and recommend a sales price. They advertise or list the property, organize open houses, and negotiate on behalf of their client.
It is legal to use a dual real estate agent in Greenville, SC, meaning the same agent represents both the buyer and seller.
What to Look for in a Real Estate Agent and Where to Find Them
While there are several real estate agents to help you with buying or selling properties, it’s difficult to find one who is reliable and trustworthy. To avoid getting scammed, follow these basic tips below when you’re looking for an agent.
- Get to know your agent. While referrals are an excellent place to start, it’s not always advisable to choose the first agent that you meet. Meeting and researching a few candidates, reading testimonials and observing the level of service you receive are all worthwhile pursuits in finding a reputable team.
It’s also important that you feel comfortable with your agent since you’re likely to spend a fair amount of time together and they’ll be negotiating on your behalf.
- Ask if he’s licensed. Agents should be fully licensed in the state they’re practicing in, which can easily be looked up online through the real estate commission website of your region. They should also understand your area intimately, advising you on typical time frames of selling and what you’re likely to receive or pay for a property.
Experienced agents often have the benefit of an extensive network and may easily find soon-to-be listed properties if you’re buying, or be able to bring in prospective buyers if you’re selling.
- Drive around your area. If you’re still uncertain, there are other methods to try. Driving around the neighborhood and looking for real estate agencies or offices can help you find a specialist in your particular area. Open houses are also an easy way to chat informally with an agent and find someone you click with. Searching online can also help you find out what experience previous clients have had with a particular agent and present you with more options.
Whatever your decision, make sure your expectations are fully understood by anybody you choose to work with and that you’re comfortable with the marketing strategy they decide to go with.
