Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, finding the right real estate agent can be a tough game to play. It may be tempting to fall for the first person’s face that you see plastered onto the nearest billboard, but it’s important to do a little more investigating before deciding to list your home (or buy a house) through a particular agent.
1) Consider the Difference between “Realtor” and “Real Estate Agent”
Although the two are tossed around somewhat interchangeably, they are actually two different levels of the same term. A Real Estate Agent has a real estate license; this means they have passed the necessary requirements in a particular state to buy and sell property. On the other hand, a Realtor is a registered member of the National Association of Realtors, an organization that promotes certain standards and a code of ethics.
Another level that some agents may have (like Maureen) is the title of Real Estate Associate Broker, which means she has taken the needed classes to become a broker but still works under the management of a full-time broker (another level up on the real estate licensing spectrum).
Having these two perspectives (as both a realtor and associate broker), Maureen is able to think from both the buyer’s and seller’s perspective to help her clients in the best way possible (e.g. to avoid being taken advantage of as well as finding the best deals on the best homes in the best neighborhoods).
2) Experience
When you’re looking for a realtor in Richmond Hill GA (in addition to educational experience), it’s a good idea to pick one that has years of experience buying and selling homes in the area (see #3). This experience translates into contacts, leads, and good connections with other agents and professionals in the real estate world, all of which greatly benefit the client.
A solid marketing foundation is also critical when looking for a realtor. If you’re selling a home, you definitely want an agent who has the experience and knowledge of the perfect marketing techniques to get your house out there to the right people!
3) Lives like the Locals
It’s one thing to hire a realtor who merely knows the area versus one who actually lives in the area. Maureen Bryant was born and raised in Savannah and currently resides in the greater Richmond Hill area. Not only does this translate into a personal knowledge of Richmond Hill (such as the best neighborhoods for budding families), but it also means that she has the professional knowledge being a Richmond Hill realtor. Having bought and sold homes for other families, she knows the ins-and-outs of this particular market and the individual neighborhoods themselves.
4) Get Referrals and Make Appointments
We don’t always heed the advice of family and friends, but when it comes to realtors, it can be incredibly useful. Consider the suggestions of the people who have used certain realtors before, then make initial “interview” appointments with the agents to assess whether everyone has the ability to work together professionally. Unfortunately, the buying/selling process can be stressful, so it’s a good idea to pick a realtor with whom you feel comfortable spending time with!
If you’re looking for a realtor in the Richmond Hill GA, area, look no further than the Maureen Bryant Team! (Also, for families looking to move to the Richmond Hill area, check out our previous posts on “Things to do in Richmond Hill with Kids” and “Relocation Tips for Military Families”!)
