Are you considering selling or buying a property in Vancouver real estate? This is both an exciting and potentially daunting time to talk to a Realtor and explore listing options because there is so much to remember to do. Also, sadly there are many listings COVID-19 restrictions. When it comes down to purchasing real estate, you can always buy property on your own. But of course, you’re in a much better position if you work with a Realtor Vancouver professional. They’ll not only manage the whole process for you, including online listings, but they’ll also negotiate on your behalf when necessary.
When it comes to Vancouver real estate, you can’t go too wrong when choosing a Realtor Vancouver professional because it’s a regulated industry in Canada. Having said that, there are few things to bear in mind to put the best chances on your side, as per the questions detailed below. This is especially true today because open house restrictions may impact your process.
1- Can I see your references and license?
Of course, there are many options to view properties, including through realtor.ca listings offer online. However, a Realtor can also open up access to properties not included in listings through their network. Either way, you should make sure that they are licensed with the British Columbia Real Estate Association. Also, don’t forget that you can check your local public online review websites for Realtors.
2- How do you update on status?
Your Realtor Vancouver professional must align with your goals and priorities. For example, you need to specify exact bedrooms, bathrooms and other requirements in the agreement you sign with them. Last but not least, how do you want them to update you on status and progress? Perhaps they have a process they can share with you? Essentially, you don’t want to be frustrated down the line with mismatched expectations. Although, note that you can also check your region realtor.ca listings offer details if you want to have some autonomy during the process.
3- Can I review your agreement template?
You should expect to pay a commission as well as other fees such as taxes. Nevertheless, you should make sure this is all clearly stated upfront on the agreement. The best way to make sure you’re happy is to compare agreements from a few Realtor Vancouver professionals and see what works for you. Don’t forget that you should also include all your specifications in the agreement, including how many km away you want to be viewing properties.
It’s worth remembering that different Realtors will offer various services. For instance, do you want to have virtual tours and live streaming options to view properties? Unfortunately, you might not have a choice these days due to restrictions on open houses. Although, it’s so easy to access live streaming events contact key people such that you might actually enjoy having everything at your fingertips.
4- What’s your experience in this area?
Naturally, you can explore the area where you’re looking to buy. Nonetheless, a Realtor Vancouver professional can have deeper insights that you might not get. For instance, what are the neighbours like and is there a community feel? Alternatively, are there plans for a new construction site round the corner? No one wants building work at their back door when they’ve just moved into their new house. Please note that open house events won’t necessarily make these things obvious. Therefore, for all events contact your Realtor.
5- How many properties are you currently managing?
It’s important to know how many properties your Realtor is dealing with at any one time. Essentially, a Realtor’s job is a huge juggling act and you need to make sure that you’re happy that they can deliver. You can of course check with any references they give you but also, simply talk to your potential Realtor. The more open and honest the conversation can be from the start then the more likely you’ll work well together and explore listing details effectively.
6- What are your fees?
Fees are rarely forgotten by anyone but make sure you read the small print on your agreement. There should be no hidden commission rates for third party suppliers, for example. Either way, make sure everything is clear including, for instance, how many km away you want to be dealing with. This is all about aligning your goals with your Realtor.
7- What’s your current list to price ratio?
An interesting piece of information is the ratio of the actual sale price versus what it was listed for. This can give you an idea of how on top of things the Realtor is. Essentially, this gives you a sense of how well they did their pricing and how well they understand the market. The closer the numbers are then the more likely the Realtor knows what’s really going on.
8- What’s the proportion of buyers to sellers you work with?
Another interesting question is whether your Realtor Vancouver professional is more comfortable dealing with buyers or with sellers. They can deal with both. However, everyone has their comfort zone and there are differences in the buying and selling processes.
Final Thoughts on Working with a Realtor Vancouver professional
All these questions are about giving you confidence that you’re choosing a good Realtor Vancouver professional. They need to be both knowledgeable and trustworthy. At the end of the day, you should also listen to your instinct and if you feel you can actually work with this person.
Regardless of your decision, make sure you’re never forced into anything and remember that a Realtor agreement also expires. Therefore, in the worst-case scenario, you can also move on. This is unlikely in such a regulated industry such as Vancouver real estate. In fact, you can generally expect high-end properties and high-quality Realtor professionals.
