How to Confidently Choose a Realtor to Work With

Just across the Hudson River from New York City, Bergen County is a collection of affluent towns and cities that provide the perfect balance of quiet suburban living and urban convenience. With splendid views of rolling hills, lakes, and rivers, along with local nature reserves and hiking trails, the county is ideal for spending time outdoors. Cultural attractions are never far away since the area is home to museums, theaters, and historic landmarks. From shopping and dining to annual events and everything in between, Bergen County neighborhoods have something special for everyone to enjoy.

If you plan to purchase a home or sell a property in one of the highly sought-after towns and cities that make up Bergen County, you need the assistance of a qualified realtor. However, finding the right person to help you meet your real estate needs can be a challenging journey. These tips can help you confidently choose the right realtor to work with in Northern New Jersey.

A real estate transaction is vastly different than most purchases or sales anyone will encounter in their lifetime. Even if you've been through the process in the past, it's easy to overlook crucial requirements. Experienced real estate agents are professionals who can help you check all the boxes and ensure you've handled all aspects of the situation in the best way possible.

However, real estate experience comes in several different forms. For example, if you're conducting a home search, you should seek a buyer's agent rather than a listing agent. When learning about an agent's experience, look for these details.

• How long has the agent been working in the local area?
• Does the agent handle properties similar to the home you're selling or buying?
• What kind of credentials does the agent have?
• Does the agent have a high success rate?
• Does the agent have a strong local reputation?

Referrals are the primary method through which most buyers find their real estate agent. While modern technology can provide you with the resources to find a wealth of information about professional services, most home seekers and property owners preparing to sell are looking for someone they can trust. Referrals reveal information about how a realtor communicates, handles complex situations, and negotiates during a home purchase or sale. A recommendation from someone you trust is one of the most effective ways to gain confidence in the professionalism of a real estate agent.

However, you shouldn't rely on a single opinion alone. In the absence of referrals or to continue your research, seek out reviews from a real estate agent's past clients. Look for both positive and negative reviews to learn more about the agent's strengths and weaknesses and to learn whether you're likely to be compatible.

If you plan to buy or sell a home in the near future, you're likely no stranger to the term "comps" (comparable homes). Real estate professionals deal with a wide range of properties that include commercial and residential buildings that vary widely from one another.

While the median home price in New Jersey is an even $500,000, some luxury properties in Bergen County sell for well over $1 million or even several million dollars. The knowledge that an agent has worked with comparable homes gives you the confidence to know you're working with a realtor experienced in the area of real estate you're interested in.

When searching through an agent's past transactions, seek homes similar to yours or those you're interested in. Note how the prices of these homes compare to others in the area, especially those of similar size. Recent sales give you a clear picture of how active the agent is and their experience in working with clients in similar situations to your own.

While you can learn a lot about real estate agents online, it's important that you meet the agent in person before making a final choice. This will give you an opportunity to learn about their communication style and ask questions to help you learn more about the process and ensure you've chosen the right professional for the job.

When you talk with an agent, make sure they provide you with adequate information and that you feel comfortable interacting with them. Take this time to ask essential questions about the process and the agent's work style. After asking about the agent's experience and credentials, these questions can help you learn more about them.

• Have you earned awards in the real estate industry?
• How many homes for sale in Northern New Jersey do you close annually?
• Do you specialize in a specific property type?
• What are your fees?
• What's your strategy for marketing my home?
• How do you handle negotiations?
• Do you have any references?

Depending on your planned real estate transaction, an agent will either provide you with a listing agreement or buyer representation agreement before working with you. This is an official contract that describes the obligations and responsibilities of both sides. The agreement will include information about how the process will be conducted and how terminations are conducted if necessary.

When you're conducting interviews, ask to see a copy of a contract so you can review the details long before signing on the dotted line. By taking the opportunity to review contracts from different agents, you can note distinctions and determine whether any clauses exist that could influence your decision.

Buying or selling a home is a significant event that will impact your financial position and your lifestyle. It's not a decision to take lightly and one that requires professional assistance for the highest levels of success.

Finding a qualified agent to help you navigate the process of buying or selling a home in Northern New Jersey doesn't have to be difficult. The Taylor Lucyk Group is a full-time multi-service real estate team consisting of top agents in Northern New Jersey. With over $150 million in sales in 2022 and a position in the top 1% in closed volume in the New Jersey Multiple Listing Service (NJMLS), the team has the experience and knowledge to help you achieve your real estate goals.

Connect with the agents at the Taylor Lucyk Group to gain the confidence of knowing you've chosen a capable agent to help you sell or buy a home in Bergen County.