Ali Ata on Choosing the Best Real Estate Agent

Ali Ata says hiring a professional real estate agent when buying or selling a property can help you make smart decisions.

But not just any agent should fit the bill. Here's how to find the right real estate agent for you.

Where can you find real estate agents?

Ask friends and coworkers for referrals to find prospective agents, notes Ali Ata. Look up the agents' online profiles or websites, read about their experience and specialties, and check out customer reviews.

Narrow your choices down to at least three agents and interview them. Dig into specifics about how they could help you.

You can find agents through a lender's real estate network or a standalone referral service, Ali Ata adds. Before using one of these options, make sure you understand what is required of agents, how you'll be paired with one, and what happens if you don't like the agent you're matched with.

What should you ask real estate agents?

Here are the key things to ask whether you're buying or selling a property.

Is the agent licensed?

Agents must pass an exam and complete some coursework to get a license. Visit your state's real estate commission website to find out if an agent you like is licensed.

Will the agent represent my interests?

You may assume any real estate agent will only represent your interests. But in many cases, real estate agents aren't legally required to represent solely the buyer or the seller in a transaction. For instance, Ali Ata points out that a "dual agent" can act as an agent for both the buyer and the seller, and a "transactional agent" works with both sides in the same deal but has no fiduciary responsibility to either. Make sure to work with an agent who will only represent your interests.

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