It’s already February, and you know what that means – the Spring Market is just around the corner! To say the market in Ottawa has been hot is an understatement and if last month’s Market Trends Report tells us anything, it’s that nothing will be changing anytime soon.
Whether you’re buying or selling your home, it’s an exciting time! But as exciting as it is, it can be equally chaotic, stressful, and frustrating. If you’re planning on making moves this Spring, be sure to work with a REALTOR® to make sure you’re in the best position for success.
Here are some tips for finding the right REALTOR® for you:
Tip #1 for Choosing the Right REALTOR® : Conduct Interviews
You don’t have to work with the first REALTOR® you find on Instagram or have an email exchange with. It’s important to choose someone who you feel you have good chemistry with and who understands your needs on a personal level.
Tip #2 for Choosing the Right REALTOR® : Be Clear About What You’re Looking for
Be sure to give your REALTOR® a clear picture of what it is you’re looking for. What neighbourhoods are you interested in? Does the school district matter? Do you need a fenced yard for your dog? The more information you’re able to provide, the better.
Now, if you’ve given a lot of detailed requirements and are finding your REALTOR® isn’t showing you homes that fit the bill, they may not understand you and your family (see Tip #1) or they don’t have your best interests at heart. In this case, it’s OK to switch REALTOR®S and work with someone else.
Tip #3 for Choosing the Right REALTOR® : Look for Honesty
You may find a house you think is pretty great – but you want your REALTOR® to be honest with you about any negatives that might not be obvious. Is there a railroad track just behind the back hedges? Does the roof look like it will likely need to be replaced? Does the neighbourhood lack important resources?
You may not notice these details in the moment, and it’s important your REALTOR® points them out to you. If they agree with you and suggest everything is wonderful, they may not have your best interests in mind.
Tip #4 for Choosing the Right REALTOR® : Open and Clear Communication
Before working with a REALTOR® , make sure you understand what the best way to communicate with them is and what kind of response time they have. If you’re texting your agent but they prefer email only, you may not get the responses you’re waiting for. If you spend your weekends searching for homes but the REALTOR® doesn’t work Sundays, you may not be a good match.
Ultimately, working with someone who you trust is the most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to buying or selling a home. It can be a complicated process, and feeling supported can help make the whole system less stressful.If you’re thinking about buying or selling and think I may be the right REALTOR®, send me a message and let me be your guide through the process, from start to finish.