How to choose the right estate agent in Toronto

If you are thinking about buying or selling your home, picking the right real estate agent is one of the most critical aspects to consider. You should choose a competent agent who is knowledgeable about the real estate market. He or she should be willing to guide you throughout the process, answering all your questions as well as keeping your interest ahead. After all, you are dealing with one of your largest asset.

Finding the right real estate can be quite a daunting task. To help you, here is a guide on how to choose the right real estate agent in Toronto.

Talk to recent clients

Talking to clients gives you an honest assessment of the agent. Request him or her for a list of the recent clients with their contact information. But before contacting the clients, ask the realtor if there is anyone who will be particularly disappointed and why?

When you contact the clients, ask them about their experience with the realtor as well as their asking price and sales price. If you are selling, confirm if the agent’s previous properties were similar to yours in terms of price, location and other features.

Look up the agent's license

All provinces requires real estate agents to be licensed and Toronto is no exception. Request to see the agent’s license then confirm with the Toronto regulatory body if the license is valid. You can also check if there are any disciplinary actions or complaints filed by previous customers.

Pick a winner

Peer awards recognizes real estate agents who have been the most helpful to buyers and sellers during the previous years. Therefore, choosing a real estate with such an award is an indication that you are dealing with one of the best.

Select an agent with the right credentials

Besides the inborn traits, real estate agents should also have training in different areas such as marketing, sales, competence and ethics etc.

Therefore, before taking the plunge, check if the agent has taken any additional classes in any real estate category.

Research how long the agent has been in business.

An experienced agent knows your suburb and the homes at your range. He or she also knows exactly what buyers and sellers in your area are looking for. As a result, they have a better chance of getting a higher price compared to a less experienced agent.

Look at their current listings

You should look at the number of listings the agent currently has listed. If they are too many, you may be just another number. If they are too few, it could mean that they do not have much experience.

Also be sure to check if the listed properties are in the same area as your and if the price range is similar.

Negotiation Skills

Selling a property is one of the most important transaction. So it is worth finding a skilled negotiator to represent your interest.

Pay close attention to the manner the agent answers your questions as it indicates how he will handle the potential sellers or buyers. Settle for a professional, efficient and organized realtor.

Fees, commission and contracts

The fees and contracts should be discussed upfront and not at the last minute. Keep in mind that a low fee does not equate to the best deal. A good real estate agent should be comfortable quoting their fees and commission as well as their contract terms.

If you are looking for a real estate agent in Toronto, contact Karen Johnston for all your property buying and selling needs. Her expertise in Toronto, Durham, Northhumberland and Scarborough, ensures she’s the right agent for your real estate needs.