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Experience helps. Have you closed at least
20 buyer agency transactions? Or are you an auctioneer who is a licensed
real estate agent?
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Education helps. Have you earned the Real
Estate Auction Buyer Agency (R.E.A.B.A.) designation?
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An agent should show flexibility in the period
of time they want to represent you. How long do you want the agreement to run?
How long does the agent want it to run?
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Can a buyer terminate the agency agreement if
they are dissatisfied with your service?
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Do you work full time? Generally, buyers are
better off with a full-time agent who keeps up with the local market, financing
considerations and laws. On the other hand, part-time agents can provide
full-time attention to one client at a time.
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Have you ever had any complaints from your
clients? (You can also check with the state real estate commission.)
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Do you have a list of names and phone numbers
of past clients for references?
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What happens if someone wants to buy a house
where the owner or owner’s agent is not offering to compensate a buyer agent?
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Tip - You can get the answers to the above
questions over the phone or even by e-mail. But a final test of your
compatibility with an agent comes in a face to face meeting. What is your gut
feeling? Does the agent seem patient? Do they let you talk? Do they communicate
well and will they stay in communication with you throughout the process?
