It's That Time of Year!

Well I am a little late with this entry, between the Holidays and the Bears in the playoffs, I did get a little sidetracked. With the new year comes the fresh home buying and selling season, and whether your buying or selling, it is time to start getting ready. Over the next couple of weeks I will be posting advice on getting your home ready for sale, keeping it "show ready", advice for first time buyers, buyers looking for a new home and more.

Today I will focus on something that does get overlooked quite a bit- choosing a Realtor. Since most buyers and sellers will end up using a Real Estate Agent, how do you choose who to go for?

I am always shocked at how many calls I get from customers who want to look at a house and will see it with the first person who answers the phone. Whether you are buying or selling here are some tips when choosing a Realtor to work with.

1. Meet the Realtor before hand. This is an interview for the Realtor. What are they going to bring to the table for you.

2. Make sure you like the Realtor. This is a huge financial deal you are going to make and it could get stressful at times. Believe me, it will go a whole lot smoother if you feel comfortable with your agent.

3.Be aware what you are getting with Realtor "Teams". These are groups of agents that work together. The concept is good, but be advised you are most likely going to be talking with different people throughout the transaction. The person who handles your paperwork most likely will not be the same person who showed you the house or was at the listing appointment.

4. Try and deal with a full time agent. When you need your agent the most are they going to be there for you or do they have another job or priority that comes first?

Remember, the average transaction takes 30-45 days to close and the average time on market in Northwest Indiana is 60-90 days, so not only are you working with this agent you are going to develop a relationship with them. Meet them before hand and make sure you "click".