What to Expect from Your Agent

Your agent will do several things to expedite your search:

• Talk to you about what you’re looking for. Your agent should spend time with you talking about your needs and expectations so they can get an accurate gauge of what requirements are set in stone and which ones have wiggle room.
• Set expectations based on your budget and the market. Your agents will give you a realistic picture of what you’re capable of buying based on your financial limits and what you want. They should still work within your desires (as long as they’re reasonable). If your agent keeps pushing you towards properties that aren’t what you want, it’s time to find someone new.
• Search the multiple listing service (learn more about the MLS below) for properties that fit your requirements. Your agent should be actively searching for new and existing listings and reaching out to you with ones that are a good fit.
• Suggest other neighborhoods and homes that you should consider. Your agent should use their knowledge to suggest other potential areas and properties that fit the bill or have added benefits even if they don’t fit your requirements to a T.
• Schedule showings. Your agent will coordinate and schedule showings for you to see properties that you like and be there to help you ask questions and evaluate the property.
• Evaluate prices. Your agent will evaluate the listing price and advise you on reasonable offers based on the market.