The article I was reading stated that “designers no longer have a monopoly on design. The tools are cheaper, more powerful, and easy to find.” The same could be said for real estate too. Due to an ever-increasing number of online home research tools, it’s easier than ever to access real estate information. But does DIY technology preclude the need for a professional real estate agent? The Print article went on to say that “to fear that shoddy DIY work will replace good professional design is to suggest that the two are indistinguishable to the untrained eye.” Again, I see a real estate parallel here.

I don’t think the DIY books or MLS tools will ever replace the need for a hard-working, professional realtor. Statistics prove that realtors MORE than earn their keep. Buying a home is the most expensive investment decision most people will ever make. Why leave it up to a “do-it-yourself” kit!

Great comment! Only a real athlete could make a reference like you just did. I’m impressed.

You’re exactly right. Choosing the wrong person to represent you could be a draining experience (Definitely inspiration for a future post. I’ll try to keep it short). Here are a few things to start with:

1. Find a BUYER’S agent if you’re buying. (When you call the number on the sign, the person that answers the phone is the listing agent. They represent the seller’s best interest and are bound to tell the seller any sensitive information that would reveal your strength of position. In other words, don’t show your hand before the turn card is dealt. It’s much harder for you to negotiate a lower price when the seller knows how much you’re looking to spend.)

2. Ask for a good referral from friends and family.

3. Interview multiple agents before you begin. (Get a feel for their competence and personality. Make them earn your trust, don’t just give it to the first person you meet.)

4. Don’t rely too heavily on experience. (An agent could’ve been a lousy agent 30 years ago, chances are they’re still a lousy agent 30 years later… Remember, quality not quantity.)

5. Set your limits. (As you mentioned above, the more you pay for a house, the more a Realtor will be paid in most cases. If you say, “I don’t want to spend more than X amount,” then I would wonder if your agent was truly representing your best interest if they keep showing you homes that exceed your price point. I believe it’s prudent for every buyer not to purchase a home for the max amount they’re approved for… you never know what your income will be like in six months)

6. Open and consistent communication. (Do they answer the phone on the first ring, or does it go straight to voicemail? Sounds simple, but is your agent too busy for you? In the interview ask them how often they will be in touch with you and how they intend to communicate with you. If after the interview, you’re still uncertain try them out for a week. If you’re disappointed with their performance, don’t enter into a written contract with them. In the end you decide who is going to represent your best interest.)

Hope this helps and thanks for the comment! Windy McWinderson is done now.

I can imagine you have more than likely heard this concern voiced before so I am teeing you up to knock this one out of the park! And yes… I did just combine two sports references.