INTERVIEW YOUR PROSPECTIVE BROKER
By Robin Shapiro
Some people choose their real estate broker based upon reputation/word of mouth. There’s nothing wrong with this approach EXCEPT that occasionally the choice is made without thorough due diligence: without interviewing more than one broker. The sale of a house is frequently one of the biggest transactions in a person’s lifetime. When people buy cars, they often check with more than one dealer. It’s called capitalism!
There are many factors to consider in the choice of a real estate broker:
- Compatibility – Does the broker “care” about you? Does the broker respond in a timely fashion to your calls, answer your questions, address your problems/ concerns?
- Expertise – Does the broker have thorough knowledge of the local market?
- Advertising Budget – Does the broker advertise in newspapers, Trulia, Zillow, Street Easy, on the internet? Does the broker use 3-D virtual photography?
- Honesty/Integrity – Many brokers advertise that they have the highest integrity. Look at their ads: Do they use “bait and switch” advertising? Are water views really bay views? Is a shared driveway mentioned? The deceptive broker may be deceptive to you, too. Finally, beware the broker who makes a lowball offer to buy your home for himself. If he/she is buying it, ask yourself “why?”
Call me. Love, Robin.
