Your choice in a real estate professional will make the difference in your success as a home buyer or seller. Interview prospects to determine who will be the best fit for your needs. The six most important areas to evaluate include:

(1) Company Support: You will want to select a REALTOR ® who is affiliated with a company that has a reputation for integrity and professionalism. The leadership, staff and resources of a respected company support a REALTOR ® in delivering exceptional results and a highlevel of customer satisfaction. Larger companies will also offer the convenience of onsite mortgage financing services.

(2) Expertise and Market Knowledge: You will want to work with a REALTOR® who has proven knowledge of the market in which you are buying or selling a home and a record of successfully helping clients achieve their goals. This will require strong skills in marketing, communication and negotiation. The benefits of being able to properly price a home are also significant and include a faster sale; less inconvenience; more prospects; higher offers; and a higher net equity. An understanding and use of technology is integral to all professional activities conducted on your behalf.

(3) Connectivity and Compensation: A REALTOR® who is actively networking with a wide array of real estate professionals and colleagues offers the broadest exposure for the homes he or she is marketing and secures vital information for buyers. A REALTOR® has access to industry resources such as the Multiple Listing Service and partners in Relocation service organizations. A REALTOR ® earns a commission for the services provided to buyers and sellers. Be sure that you fully understand the terms, which are set out in a listing agreement.

(4) Results: If you are selling a home in today’s competitive market, you need a REALTOR® who has the knowledge to price your home correctly; the marketing expertise to attract qualified buyers; and the negotiating skills to secure the highest price the market will bear. If you are a buyer, it is equally important that the REALTOR ® has the market insight to identify good opportunities that meet your criteria; the negotiating skills to obtain the best price possible; and the knowledge to guide you through each step of the purchase including mortgage financing. In both cases, superior communication skills are required to keep you informed of important facts and actions throughout the process including the details of contracts and documents.

(5) Code of Ethics and Commitment: There is a distinctive difference between an “agent” and a “REALTOR ®”. Only a licensed salesperson or broker who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS ® and the state and local associations may use the term REALTOR®. A REALTOR® subscribes to a stringent Code of Ethics. You will also want confirm that the REALTOR® you choose is a full-time professional who is fully committed to meeting your needs.

(6)  Education and Training: A qualified candidate will have a real estate salesperson or broker’s license. A broker is licensed to assist sellers and buyers; a salesperson works under the supervision of a licensed broker. In addition to the education required to earn a license, a successful professional maintains an ongoing program of professional development, with many achieving advanced industry designations.