I was looking through real estate listings in Sherbrooke when I realized that buying a new home isn’t as simple as I thought. The chances of making the process go as smoothly as possible depend on finding a good, reliable real estate agent. I used to think I would be better off without one as I could save some money, but horror stories from people I know tell me that I would only spend more than I’m willing to if I didn’t hire an agent.

But how do we find a real estate agent that has the right qualifications and can be relied on to make buying a property easy? According to my research, here is how:

Find an Agent Who Works in Your Area: A real estate agent who handles many properties in your area or the area you are looking to move to, and they are more likely to get you the best deals because they are aware of the nicest neighborhoods and pricing trends there. Hiring an agent that isn’t local is going to be as useful as not hiring one at all.

Find Someone with Experience: The longer an agent has been operating in real estate, the better they are going to handle things. Being in the business for at least a few years means they have had a good look at how things work and there is no doubt that they can help you.

However, you shouldn’t always base your choice on someone’s working experience. If they have the right credentials then that might just be enough. Of course, you want to check if the agent you are considering to hire has an operating license.

Look for Agents with Awards: If you really want to be sure about your choice, look for agents with awards and honors. Look at the real estate agent’s resume or website and look for recognitions and awards. These things will clue you in that the agent is an excellent worker and likely to meet your expectations.

Ask for Recommendations: Your best bet when looking for an excellent real estate agent is talking to people who have personally worked with one, especially if they are close to you, like friends and family. Of course, just because a friend referred them to you doesn’t mean that you should end your search at that. You should still do your own research and check that agent’s background and credentials.

Interview the Agent: Once you have set up to meet with an agent, ask them proper questions so you know they are the one you are looking for. Ask how long they have been working in the area your are looking at. If they have been operating there for quite some time now, there is a good chance that they know what they are doing. Ask them about any planned vacations in the near future. If they are going on a vacation during the time you need them to be working for you, that should be discussed.

Also, you want to work with an agent who handles properties that are similar to what you are looking for or selling. Ask them if they could show you other properties that they are selling.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask them. Remember that you will be working with them to find the best properties at the best rates for you, so you want to be sure that they have whatever you are looking for in a real estate agent.