Benefits of a Real Estate Agent

There are many advantages to using a professional real estate agent.

Sift through several listings to narrow your search to a select a few that meet your requirements
Have information on new properties even before they are listed
Provide you with a competitive market analysis of homes in your area of interest, so you can see what fair market value is
Provide information about the neighbourhood and community
Arrange private viewings of homes you are interested in
Point out advantages and disadvantages of specific homes
Guide you through the home buying process, including preparing the offer to purchase and other key documentation and negotiating on your behalf
Provide referrals to home inspectors, lawyers/notaries, movers, or lenders if you require them

How to Choose a Real Estate Agent

Start by asking for referrals from friends or family, or go to open houses to meet some of the agents working in your neighbourhood.

Look for someone who specializes in your preferred area, or type of housing (especially if you’re looking for a condo)
Choose an experienced, full-time agent licensed by your province. This ensures that the agent can legally represent you
Talk to the agent to make sure you will work well together — you’ll be spending a lot of time in one another’s company
Make sure your agent works with the Multiple Listing Service^®## (MLS^®##). Even though you can access the MLS public site, an agent has access to much more information to help you pre-screen homes, compare prices and check listing and sales prices
Ask about hours and availability, to be sure the agent will be able to attend viewings at times that are convenient to you
Talk to the agent’s previous clients to make sure they were satisfied with the service.