Many people think that going to open houses is a good way to find an agent, but this is not the best way, nor even a good way. The real estate company holding the open house is representing the seller. When you sign the guest book, the person greeting you will probably be “designated” to be your representative, and the listing agent for the seller would be another “designee”. However, at this point wouldn’t that company now be highly motivated to keep both the buyer and seller-side commissions in-house?

Another hazard associated with visiting open houses unaccompanied by your buyers agent is that buyers often unintentionally give away their price ceilings visiting an open house. If you have signed in to the guest book, the listing company has your name, and if you end up interested in buying that particular house, an outside buyer agent will typically not be offered a commission. A regrettable consequence may be that you are then limited to presenting your offer with an agent who works in the same company as the listing agent.

Many buyers also succumb to the temptation to check the newspapers for ads that are run weekly that show enticing pictures of homes for sale before deciding on a buyers agent. It is very tempting at that point to call the listing agent. However, that agent who represents the seller is under a written agreement to get the highest price and best terms for their seller.

You will save a great deal of time and money if you take the time up front to make appointments with at least two potential buyer agents to interview them. There are at least 10 critical questions to ask an agent before making a decision to work with them. Real estate agents are making a huge amount of money on your purchase and you have every right to be picky. You will want to know who is the top broker in the firm who sets the policies, and then you can decide what agent to select within that office. The owner or manager of the company strongly influences the culture of honesty, integrity, and customer service towards the buyer, and you should know who that person is.

When you find an broker you think is going to be suitable, make sure to check with your state’s real estate commission to make sure that agent is legally licensed. Most professional associations require an brokers to be licensed with their state and in good standing at the time of admission to membership. Another wise step might be to check out that company’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau.

You should choose an agent who is familiar with the neighborhoods and school districts, because we all know that a good location is one of the top ways to ensure you will be able to sell your property at a good price when the time comes. And that time may be shorter than you anticipate. Most people end up moving again within 5 years. In today’s real estate environment, you will also want an agent who is knowledgeable about foreclosures and short sales.

When you are looking for a home that is another state or city from your current residence, then you are going to need the internet and an agent you can depend on to provide you good electronic access to properties. Make sure the agent you choose will provide you with email alerts and virtual tours of the homes you might like. Make sure their web sites are optimized for mobile devices.

Find an agent with the values of integrity, important qualities in a person that is going to help you in relocating and buying one of the biggest financial investments you will ever make. Evaluate the agent like you would a friend and get to know them as a person to make sure they are not just someone out to make a buck. When you do find an agent, they should be a respected business partner to you during the whole home and property buying process.

When buying your first home, find a real estate agent through BuyerAgentSearch.com. Interview questions are supplied there to help you find an agent.