The Michigan Group

Bob Hefner
REALTOR
662-1867
662-8600

REAL ESTATE MATTERS

How Not to Choose a Realtor

In previous columns I've offered suggestions on "How to Choose a Realtor." Now some thought on how not to choose an agent.

"I know someone who sells real estate" -- a family friend, or the spouse of a co-worker. My advise: Don't rush in. You should evaluate each agent with the same objectivity. Ask yourself if you would feel comfortable dropping the person if things don't work out. Would social politics interfere?

"I found mine in the Yellow Pages." Be careful. Most realty companies are one-person firms that are not really set up to sell homes. Instead, they manage rentals, oversee investment properties, or handle office or industrial space. If you ask these firms, "Can you sell my house?" they're likely to say, "Yes, of course!" That's because they might passively earn a commission, simply by listing the home for sale. Later you might learn that they haven't sold a house in years or that an agent isn't available weekends or evenings, when buyers are most free to look at home.

"I'll have six agents working for me!" Or so you'll think, if you call the agents for six houses that interest you. However, if you call on many agents, you end up on the bottom of each person's priority list. You get much better service if, after checking out several agents, you work exclusively with one person. 

If you need help buying or selling a home or other property, give me a call. Perhaps I can serve you or refer you to a trusted colleague.

Bob Hefner