5 Questions to Ask An Agent for The First-Time Homebuyer

Buying a home for the first time can be a daunting experience on its own. Throw in the depreciating currency, shaky political climate and the numerous ‘road-side’ agents into the mix and it’s possible to find yourself in what may seem like an unending maze. If this is you, you need to hire the services of a great buyer agent!

To give you one less thing to worry about, RE/MAX Nigeria experts have compiled 5 basic questions to ask while deciding on an agent to guide you through the process.

5. How will you help me select a property?

A good agent will introduce you to a multitude of properties. He/she is also responsible for sorting the good from the bad and will assist you in choosing the best property based on prior consultations to suit your lifestyle and needs.

4. How long have you been in the business?

As a first time buyer you will rest easier knowing that you’ve placed one of the biggest decisions of your life so far in the hands of an able-bodied professional. An experienced agent, not only by by years in the marketplace but by number of transactions, training etc. can deliver a level of service and exude professionalism in ways that a part time real estate agent simply cannot.

3. What geographical areas and type of properties do you handle?

 When selecting an agent, it is important that you find out if he/she is familiar with your area of preference. If your agent is knowledgeable about the neighbourhood, there’s a higher chance that they will scoop up the best deals and exclusive offerings of the given area. Likewise, the type of property you are looking to get should be attainable for the agent i.e. an agent who specialises in warehousing and farmlands is less likely to find you the four bedroom terraced house of your dreams.

2. Exclusivity?

Some agents offer incentives for clients who enter into exclusivity agreements, therefore it may be worthwhile to listen to each prospective agent’ terms to determine which option will best suit you.

1. How will you communicate with me?

A communication lapse of a few hours can mean the difference between an accepted offer and a missed opportunity. Bearing this in mind, choose an agent who responds quickly in the mode of communication that works for you. Email, text, phone, fax or telegraph, finding a realtor who will work for you in the way that you need to work will make your experience that much better.

A qualified agent can be of great assistance to prospective homeowners, but before choosing to work with an agent make sure to ask yourself the following:

• Did you feel the agent was trustworthy?
• Did you and your agent communicate well together?
• Did the agent seem realistic when discussing your anticipated home purchase?

The final decision is a sum of your perception of the agents’ process and personality and that gut feeling that generally guides you. 

RE/MAX agents are thoroughly experienced individuals, truly passionate about real estate. Engage a RE/MAX Nigeria agent today for all your buying and selling requirements.

www.remax.ng

0700-GO-REMAX

Do you have any experience or advice you would like to share with first time homebuyers? Share in the comment box below!