Are you buying or selling a home in Gainesville? Then you need a great, local real estate agent. Here are the best avenues to find the perfect realtor for you.
Ask Friends and Family
This may sound obvious, but it really is the best way to find a good real estate agent. You can trust that people you know will tell you the truth about their experiences with their realtor and won’t lead you astray. But don’t just go with the first name you hear — ask a handful of family and friends for their recommendations and reach out to each one.
Talk to a Referral Agent
If you’re moving to Gainesville from further away but have a local realtor you trust, ask them for referrals. There is a good chance they know a real estate agent in Gainesville or the surrounding area that they can connect you with. Referral agents often get a cut of the commission if you go with their recommendation, so they will definitely want to suggest someone they think you will like!
Do Your Research
Search for local real estate agents on Google, or check home listing sites like Zillow and Realtor.com. Look for homes that fit your criteria and make note of the listing agents. Once you have some ideas of local realtors, look up their websites, social media pages, and most importantly, look for reviews! Reach out to the ones that seem like they could be a good fit.
Complete Multiple Interviews
Always speak to more than one agent! Interview 2-4 agents before making a final decision. Note how professional they are, how well you get along, and how busy they seem — you want to work with someone experienced, of course, but not someone who won’t have time for you. Check their knowledge of the area. Are they familiar with the neighborhoods in Gainesville that most interest you? And if you’re a first time home buyer, ask about their experience guiding people in your situation.
In the end, the best thing to do is to go with your gut. Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who you know has the knowledge, experience, and skill to advocate for you. Finding a great real estate agent is key to a successful buying or selling process, so take your time and be sure you feel confident in your decision!