By Katie Bain
PORTLAND, Ore. – So you’re searching for a Portland Oregon Realtor to buy your first home but before you say yes to hiring them have asked yourself if they have any of the “danger signs” which should be avoided?
In this article I will break down 8 danger signs you should avoid in a Portland Oregon Real Estate Agent so you will hire the best agent who will help you to buy the home of your dreams.
Danger Sign #1 – They Are Inexperienced With No Support
Although your friend, relative, or co-worker may have just got their Real Estate license in Oregon and is trying to get your business, you want to have the expertise of an agent who can guide you through the transaction and protect your interests. Often times a new agent will have the support of an experienced agent who is overseeing their transactions and can offer advise and guidance. If not, find an agent who has more experience and is less likely to miss important details.
Danger Sign #2 – The Agent Is Behind The Times
Ask real estate agents about their use of technology such as their website, use of email, online marketing skills, mobile apps, online file sharing, and use of e-signatures. Most buyers today use technology to find a home for sale and complete their transaction. If the agent doesn’t use technology to their advantage they will potentially be missing out new listings and will take longer to complete items important to a transaction.
Danger Sign #3 – No Plan of Action
What is the plan to help you find a home in Portland, especially during a hot Real Estate market with little inventory? Don’t hesitate to ask this question of an agent you are considering working with. Without a plan of action to help you buy a home in Portland you may miss out on your dream home.
Danger Sign #4 – You Don’t Feel Comfortable With Them
Regardless of an agent’s experience, expertise, ability to find homes that meet your criteria, negotiate well, and other important attributes, ask yourself if you feel comfortable working with them. Your relationship with your real estate agent is usually more personal than other professionals. It is very important to feel comfortable talking to your real estate agent and feeling complete trust in your relationship with them. Follow your intuition and don’t hesitate to work with another agent if you aren’t entirely comfortable with your initial choice.
Danger Sign #5 – You’re Not Able to Reach Them
If a real estate agent is difficult to reach BEFORE committing to working with them you can assume this will also be the case once they are exclusively your agent. Time is of the essence when you want to see listings as inventory is low or during a transaction where there are important deadlines to meet. While a real estate agent does have other clients and obligations, make sure they are prompt in returning calls and emails when you are unable to reach them and that they have other agents who can cover for them if they are going to be out of town or unavailable for an extended period.
Danger Sign #6 – They Don’t Listen To You
Hiring a great Realtor ® also means you will be hiring an agent who listens to what your needs are and then will find a home for you based on your search criteria.
If your agent wants to show you homes which are not in your target areas, or are above your price range, these are two signs that this agent will not be someone who won’t listen to you during your home search.
Danger Sign #7 – The Agent Doesn’t Know Portland
It is important for a real estate agent to have expertise in the neighborhood you want to purchase a home in, as well as the type of home you are looking for. While most buyers focus on an agent’s experience, their experience may not benefit you if they don’t know the area you want to purchase a home in or have a good understanding of what you want in a home.
To learn more about the danger signs you should look for when hiring a Realtor ®, or to view homes for sale, contact me today by calling (503) 595-8800 or CLICK HERE.