Broker-Realtor Ashley Hawks offers questions to aid choice of agent

Dear Expert:

This is my first time trying to buy a home. What should I look for when choosing a Realtor?

Choosy Newbie

Dear Newbie:

With so many part-time Realtors in today's real estate industry, it is more important than ever to make sure you are choosing the most professional, experienced and efficient agent to meet your specific home-buying needs.

Luckily, we live in a digital world where testimonials, track records and credentials are easily accessible online. Websites like Zillow, Trullia and REALTOR.com all give biographical information, sales volume stats, areas and niches of specialization, and options for past clients to post testimonials. A Realtor's website, and even social media forums such as Twitter and Facebook, allow a potential buyer to get a critical feel for a potential candidate prior to interviewing them.

The following is a quick-tip list of questions that any consumer should be prepared to ask upon examining their buyer representation possibilities:

How long have you been in real estate and are you a full-time agent?

Do you have another job outside of the industry?

How many homes have you sold in the last 12 months?

Do you have any special designations/experience in representing homebuyers?

What are your fees? All fees. Yes, the seller usually pays commissions, but many Realtors charge buyer brokerage fees to their clients.

Do you have former clients that I may talk to and testimonials that I may read?

What if I am unhappy with your services?

What makes you different from every other Realtor?

I would also suggest looking up the Realtor's name and license number on the Nevada Real Estate Division's website to ensure they have an active license.

Don't sweat being choosy. A home purchase is a very big deal, so you want to do it right.

Ashley Hawks

Broker/Owner|Property Manager

Black & Cherry Real Estate Group and Property Management

702.795.4663 Office