Red Bluff Daily News Special Publications
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How to Choose a Real Estate Agent Buying or selling a home is a huge task and one you want to make sure you accomplish knowing all the rules, regulations and information. When you are buying or selling a home, it is essential to choose the right real estate agent for your needs. The best agents are energetic, posi- tive and proactive. On the other hand, selecting the wrong agent can cost you lots of time and money. So how do you find the best agent for your situation? Here are some ideas to keep in mind. Real Estate Agent vs. Realtor A real estate agent may or may not be a realtor, but every realtor is required to be a licensed real estate agent. To become a realtor, a real estate agent has to join the National Asso- ciation of Realtors (NAR). This allows him or her to attend industry meet- ings, get NAR newsletters, and ac- cess software and educational tools. Realtors adhere to a strict code of ethics and have solid knowledge of the real estate business. These pro- fessionals have been trained well, which means they will provide you with the best service. Where to Start Looking Recommendations are one of the best ways to find a qualified real estate agent or realtor. Ask people in your social network for referrals. Sometimes agents are good at help- ing clients purchase homes, but not as skilled at selling them. Keep that in mind when searching for the right professional. You might also contact local brokers or search the NAR directory online. Always work with credible, responsi- ble agents. Otherwise you are wast- ing your time. Comfort Level At the initial consultation with a prospective real estate professional, focus on your comfort level while interacting with them. Do you get the feeling they are gen- uinely concerned about your needs? Or are they focused on their com- mission? Do they know the current housing market? Can they negotiate a contract? It is important that you feel comfort- able with the agent. You must trust that this person can behave ethically and help you secure a good deal. Communication and Planning Your agent should be an effective communicator. If you are selling your home, your agent should de- velop an effective marketing plan, explain it to you, and respond to any questions or concerns you have. The marketing plan will probably involve placing advertisements and conducting open houses to invite the public for home viewings. If you are purchasing a home, the agent should listen to your guide- lines and price ranges. Above all, your real estate agent needs to provide updates on prog- ress. Do not work with someone who does not return phone calls or emails. More Resources To get a better idea about the pro- cess of buying and selling a home, conduct some research on your own. Real estate magazines contain good information and can be a great way to start your research. There are also a lot of good resourc- es on the Internet, such as www.Re- altor.com, which is associated with NAR and which contains free, useful information. You may find housing statistics, market forecasts and tips, but noth- ing beats the power of networking. You need to find people with similar interests who will help you in your endeavor. Upon successfully buying or selling your home, keep your real estate agent's contact information on hand. You may want to refer other people to him or her. You may also need their services again someday. Lori Slade - Broker/Owner www.TehamaCountyRealEstate.com 530-529-2700 314 Washington St, Red Bluff, CA 96080 Barbara Dancel- Realtor I have been selling Real Estate in Red Bluff / Tehama County for the past 18 years. Grew up in Corning, obtained by Bachelors in Business from CSU Chico. I am 4th generation resident of Tehama County. Born and raised in Red Bluff, and have been in customer service for 25 years. I value my clients and enjoy turning those relationships into friendships. I absolutely love my Real Estate career, and value my referral business. I have my Associates of Science Degree from Shasta college. River City Realty is an locally owned and operated business/not a franchise. Our focus is on providing outstanding, professional service to our customers. Whether we are working with a buyer or seller, we try to tailor our services to the individual in a manner that best suits them, and that means going the extra mile. You can find us at 314 Washington St., just behind Umpqua Bank.