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Morris Digital Works Wire Service
Although realtors might specialize in either existing homes, new homes or
a particular area of town, across the board, a local expert said experience
is a key factor in choosing a realtor.
Experienced realtors can guide home buyers toward a home that fits their
needs, said Karen Gehle, CEO of the Kansas Association of Realtors. She said
a realtor should return phone calls and understand the needs of a home
buyer.
"They have looked at more homes than I have, so I want an agent to help me
filter out what homes work for me and what homes won't work for me," Gehle
said.
Many agents are more informed about homes in a particular market than
throughout the entire community. Integrity, a marketing plan and regular
communication are benchmarks of a good realtor.
In addition to experience, Gehle said, a realtor should have their
property listings on the Internet for increased exposure.
A seller should look for a realtor who will get their home in market
condition. The home should compare with other homes already on the market.
If a home isn't up to par, Gehle said the seller will start the process at
a disadvantage.
"I hope they would say 'well, you might need a fresh coat of paint here.'
I want them to tell me. If it's a fresh coat of paint or carpet, I hope they
would have that experience and share that with me."
On the flip side, someone in the market for a home should choose a realtor
who will listen to a prospective buyer's concerns. For a first-time buyer, a
realtor should clearly explain the home-buying process.
Gehle said older home buyers, for example, might be in the market for a
home without stairs. She said a real estate agent should be willing to
search for home with the prospective buyer's specific needs.
The buyer also should be comfortable having a working relationship with
the agent.
Referrals from friends, neighbors or co-workers can ease the search for an
effective realtor. Agents are familiar with current real estate values,
taxes and other costs that could sway a purchase.
Gehle said effective realtors have the tools and information to get a home
buyer through a seemingly complicated process.
"I want another pair of trained eyes," Gehle said. "This is the largest
purchase I'll make in my lifetime and I might only do it two or three times.
I want someone with experience there with me."
All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise "any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination." We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
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