realtylinkonline

October 2002

Choosing your REALTOR®

Buying a home is one of life's major decisions, so it makes sense to seek advice from an experienced REALTOR®. But with more than 6,700 licensed REALTORS® in Greater Vancouver, how do you choose one that's right for you?

Start by asking your family and friends about their home buying experiences using a REALTOR®. Was their REALTOR® easy to work with and responsive to their needs and questions? Was their REALTOR® someone they would use again?

Another idea is to check neighbourhood For Sale signs and get the names of local REALTORS®. By making a point of going to open houses, you'll also be able to meet REALTORS® in person and casually interview them. Even if they don't work in the area where you want to buy, most REALTORS® are happy to recommend someone.

Once you've chosen REALTORS® to interview, it's a good idea to draw up a list of questions to ask each of them. Keep in mind that all REALTORS® must adhere to a strict code of ethics, statute law (the Real Estate Act of BC) and a high standard of practice.

As well, your REALTOR® should:

• Explain complicated forms used in the transaction;
• Help you adopt a sound negotiation strategy and negotiate on your behalf;
• Keep you informed about market trends, assessments, future development plans, taxes, zoning, transportation and more.
• Help you start your search. They'll help you consider your lifestyle, your needs and your requirements - and rate them.
• Give you information about the community where you plan to buy, including schools, shopping, community centers, parks and great coffee places.
• Talk to their network of REALTORS® to find the property you want quickly, and they can get you appointments to see it.
• Save you time by matching your requirements with homes listed for sale on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), a computerized information-sharing network of homes for sale.
• Be your agent. REALTORS® have a legal obligation to uphold the integrity of their clients, and protect and promote their clients' interests.
• Recommend other professionals, like certified home inspectors, lawyers/notaries, insurance agents and movers.