Mention you’re thinking about entering the housing market in a crowded room and you’ll get a million opinions and probably a REALTOR or two passing you their business cards. But how do you know who is right for you?

Choosing the right REALTOR to help you buy or sell your home can make a huge difference in how smoothly the transaction progresses. The MetroTex Association of REALTORS offers these suggestions when finding the right person to help you buy your next home.

• Ask a friend or relative who’s moved lately who they used and why. What was their experience like? If your friend had a good experience, chances are you will, too.
• Interview several agents. Meet an agent for coffee and have a chat about your expectations, goals and ideas. A good agent is a good listener.  If you feel comfortable with an agent and develop a good rapport you’ll work better together.
• Start with a lot of questions. A knowledgeable agent will be able to provide you with information about local amenities, shops and schools. Make sure to describe your lifestyle and goals for the move, so the agent can give you the information about the things you’d like most in a community.
• Find out who they recommend. Ask your REALTOR who they use as a lender, title company, handyman, or contractor. An experienced agent often has a long list of reliable providers.
• Check references. Ask past clients if they would recommend the agent for a circumstance similar to your own.
• Ask about how the agent will communicate with you. How will they keep you informed about the progress of the transaction or new homes on the market? Does their style fit with your own?
• Find out about REALTOR certifications. For instance, there are agents who are Certified Military Specialists (CMS) who are specially trained to help vets and active military with their special challenges, and International Property Specialists (CIPS) who have specialized knowledge for helping international buyers coming to the US and helping locals buy vacation and other properties abroad. There are also agents certified to help seniors, distressed property sales, and a host of other specialties.
• If you are buying a home, consider an agent who specializes in working with buyers. If the agent is both a listing and a buyer’s agent, make sure they have time to dedicate to you, or that you are equally comfortable working with their team members.

Spend a little time choosing the right REALTOR for your needs. Buying and selling real estate is often a very emotional process for people. You want to make sure your REALTOR understands you, knows how to accomplish your goals and guides you through the process. With a little due diligence, you’ll be able to trust your REALTOR’S expertise.

Find a MetroTex REALTOR today on www.dfwrealestate.com, the local website dedicated to providing the most accurate and trusted information in North Texas.