How to select a real estate agent:

• Distinguish between real estate agent and REALTOR®: a REALTOR® is a member of the National Association of Realtors and is bound by certain standards. Additionally, a REALTOR® is more educated not only about real estate transactions, but also the area he or she operates in

• Check the agent’s sold homes track record: use the past 2 years as your metric and inquire about how many homes the REALTOR® has sold.  Compare this number to industry averages as some agents may specialize in high-priced homes, which typically don’t move as quickly as a condo

• Determine agent accessibility: you need someone who you can contact in many ways and who will respond to your calls promptly

• Ask for referrals: if you know others who have used agents they liked, ask for a referral

• Identify the REALTOR’s® buying and selling power: does the agent have several resources at his or her fingertips, beyond the MLS? Does the agent have a strong relationship with other agents in the area who can possibly identify pocket listings or other homes that may be just coming into the market?

Most importantly, look for a Madison, MS real estate agent who listens to you, but offers frank, up-front advice.

Contact a qualified Madison, MS real estate agent at Coldwell Banker for more information at 601-607-4777 / 866-301-2242.

Home Buying and Selling Tips from a Madison, MS Real Estate Agent

Your Madison MS, real estate agent may offer you advice on the best way to buy or sell your home.

Tips for buyers:

• Get pre-approved for a home loan before you shop

• Connect with a prominent REALTOR® in Madison

• Set your home buying goals to determine which kind of home you’d like to buy and where in Madison you should look

• Be realistic during your search – sometimes it takes time to find that perfect home

• Don’t “move” into a home until you’ve signed contracts – some buyers fall in love and mentally move their belongings into the home before the contracts are signed! This can be the cause of disappointment later if things don’t go as planned.

Tips for sellers:

• Choose a REALTOR® with a strong sales track record

• Have your home appraised to help you determine price

• Consider comparable properties in your area to decide how competitive you want to be with pricing

•  List your property on the multiple listing service (MLS) for quick viewing

• Be patient – your ideal buyer is out there

Most of all, contact a qualified Madison, MS real estate agent who is a certified REALTOR® and has a solid understanding of the area.