BY VIKTOR CHONG

It can be overwhelming for first-time homebuyers with the quantity of relevant information required to make an excellent decision. If the idea of purchasing your first property is daunting, try enlisting an agent to act on your behalf.

The question, however, lies in your ability to procure an agent that will represent your best interests. Here are some factors to consider:

Referral

Your family, relatives and friends should have some knowledge of finding a real estate agent. Inquire about their experience regarding when purchasing a property. Even better if an agent is recommended by a seasoned property investor. Rationally, these people have been in the industry for a period, participating in the buying and selling transactions with other agents. Hence, they should be able to guide you in the right direction.

Experience and awards

It is recommended that an agent should have around five or more years of experience. From industry’s perspective, a real estate agency generate their income through commissions. Any agent who has survived for such a period would be competent in providing excellent service. If possible, get an agent who has won awards such as “Realtor of the Year” or “Highest Transactions Recorded.” Awards are a significant measurement of the individual's capabilities.

Knowledge

A good agent knows many things about a locality that he or she is assigned to. From the proximity of local schools or hospitals, commute time, feeder bus routes to the highways that link to the development, they should be able to explain most of the amenities available for a specific township.

Questions to the agent

Qualify your agents by asking them questions. Get their list of referrals and ask about their services. Note that references shouldn’t necessarily be your only benchmark of measurement. It is highly unlikely that agents will be handing out referrals from clients who despise them.

You would also want to know the area covered by these agents. An ideal agent is a person who covers an area that is not too large to dilute his or her focus. It is essential as an agent who knows a particular place well should also know the best deals lying around.

Do not be hesitant to inquire about a recommended vendor list as well. An experienced agent should have developed an excellent web of connections and relationships with other professionals within the industry. The agent might also recommend you an ideal property in a strategic location you never knew about.

Questions from the agent

Real estate isn’t a one-way street. The questions your agents ask in return determines their mentality and quality. Besides the garden variety question like the type of house and number of rooms, your agent should be interested to know more about you. Client-centred agents will attempt to match their services to your requirements.

To Read More: Which type of first-time homebuyer are you?

To Read More: 12 steps to your first home

To Read More: Problems faced by first-time homebuyers

To Read More: 5 tips for first-time house buyers

To Read More: MRTA or MLTA for new homebuyers