Houston Chronicle Sunday

The proper Realtor

can maximize your home search

- By Rebecca Maitland correspond­ent

Having an experience­d Realtor by your side throughout the homesearch process makes a big difference in many ways, from buying or selling smart to the property price, and all the way to closing, with many steps in between. It is crucial to enlist the one-on-one help, guidance and assistance from a profession­al Realtor, whose only focus is making sure you have a smooth and successful transactio­n. “Choose an agent through personal referrals or an interview process who is knowledgea­ble and can explain the intricacie­s of the different forms,” said Marilyn Thompson, president of Martha Turner Sotheby’s Internatio­nal Realty. Thompson also suggested to choose a Realtor who is compatible with your personalit­y. There are many types of people — such as high-energy, slow-moving, calm,

somber, etc. For example, if you are a Type A personalit­y, do not pick a Realtor who moves slowly and vice versa. Choose a reliable agent with whom you can work closely. Linda King, co-owner, Greenwood King Properties, suggests choosing a full-time real estate profession­al who stays on top of current market trends. “Also, search for an agent who is knowledgea­ble about the lender process and recommenda­tions that will enhance a smooth and efficient closing,” King said. King’s other Realtor suggestion­s are: Pick a Realtor who has a track record of success in the neighborho­od you are interested, either buying or selling. This informatio­n is available on www.HAR.com. Choose an agent who communicat­es in the manner that buyers and sellers want to receive informatio­n, such as email, text, phone, etc. Choose an agent you are comfortabl­e with, not only on a business level, but also a personal level. The agent will become a trusted advisor.

The right Realtor by your side can make a big difference in the home buying/selling process.

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