If you are finally ready to purchase or sell, chances are you will spend quite a bit of time deciding on the right home or property. This will be one of if not the single largest expenditure in your lifetime and it would only make sense to make sure you are making the best decision possible. So, with that said, would it not also make sense to make sure you choose the right REALTOR® as well?

Your REALTOR® will serve as your partner through this process so before doing anything else, picking a REALTOR® should be the first step. The REALTOR® will have the tools and knowledge to help narrow your search or help with the tasks that need to be completed for property to be marketed properly. They will help guide you through the process and serve as a subject matter expert.

What can you do to make sure you pick the right REALTOR®? First, make sure that you pick a REALTOR® you are comfortable with saying no to if you aren't happy with their recommendations. Make sure they interact positively with you and others and are properly trained in real estate transactions and practices. A good REALTOR® should not only ask questions but be willing to listen and ask questions of you as well. They should also be able to work with other REALTORS®, lenders, and parties interested in buying or selling. Part of their job is to market the property and it's important for them to be able to communicate in a professional and courteous manner

To get started, begin with professional references from friends, relatives or colleagues. Make sure you also check on the brokerage firm they work for as that can be just as important. Next, make sure that their background includes specialization in the type of property you are buying or selling, such as residential or commercial. A REALTOR® with a membership in the National Association of REALTORS® is another positive sign. Ethical practices are critically important with those who are REALTORS® and they will have full access Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in their area, which provides more listing information.

Finally, your REALTOR® is there to walk you through the entire process. It could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship so make sure you find the right match.