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Finding a Real Estate Agent Amid the Fakes
For those who find themselves venturing into the world of real estate, one of the first and foremost requirements of a smooth, trouble free buying experience generally comes in the form of a good real estate agent. However, even something as simple as finding a reputable agent can seem like an intimidating task. As many have found, a real estate agent that costs more money or works for a large, well known firm is not always a guaranteed means of success. Finding the right agent can bank on a lot of different factors; but for the most part, the agent who is ethical and consistently represents the needs of his or her clients should be the only one that makes the grade.
When finding a good real estate agent, it is important to know the difference between Realtors, agents and brokers. While real estate agents are those who have obtained a salesperson’s license, Realtors are those who are qualified to sell property as either a broker or an agent. They are required to follow a specific Code of Ethics commanding a higher level of conduct than a regular agent. A broker represents either a buyer or a seller in exchange for a commission. They act as somewhat of an intermediary, looking to garner a common and profitable agreement between the buyer and seller.
Contrary to popular belief, finding a good real estate agent does not always come from the yellow pages or an advertisement on the side of a bus. Many have found just what they were looking for by asking friends, relatives and co-workers for recommendations. A word of mouth recommendation allows one to hear firsthand what type of experience they can expect to have with a certain realtor. This can save much in the way of time, energy and even possibly a negative buying experience. Many an agent knows they must stake their career on their reputation and work hard to protect it. The names of those who represent their client’s needs on a consistent basis without fail are likely to come up time and time again.
One beneficial tip that allows prospective clients to see a real estate agent in action is to visit open houses whenever possible. Not only will a seller be able to get a feel for the attending agent’s personality, it also gives insight into the agent’s selling skills. While some agents are aggressive and like to present the facts, others prefer to allow buyers to approach them when they are ready. Furthermore, there are agents who do very little at all. If an agent tends to come off as inconsistent in personality or possibly unethical, it allows for one to safely and thankfully avoid the chance for a future real estate disaster.
Virginia Real Estate News
Judge's ruling ends FOIA lawsuit against WVU - Daily Press
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - A judge says West Virginia University gave the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette all the information that was required last year as the school's administration unraveled over a degree scandal. The newspaper sued under the Freedom of ...
Read more...Foreclosure crisis hits Virginia - News-Virginian
RICHMOND — The number of foreclosures in Virginia more than doubled during the first 11 months of 2008, compared with all of 2007. Data analyzed by the Richmond Times-Dispatch show 27,938 foreclosures statewide in the 2008 period for all property ...
Read more...W.Va. firm a huge winner with investors - Charleston Daily Mail
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Although the 2008 investment landscape was littered with losses, one tiny West Virginia company - the Pittsburgh & West Virginia Railroad - posted a 50 percent gain. The Pittsburgh & West Virginia is a real-estate investment ...
Read more...Biltmore Square Mall up for sale - Asheville Citizen-Times
ASHEVILLE – The Biltmore Square Mall is for sale, and a key tenant will close for good this weekend. “The cost to renovate it would probably be close to $35-40 million, and that's why the local boys aren't going to be the ones to do it,” said ...
Read more...Morgantown developer leaves WVU governors - Charleston Gazette
CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Morgantown real estate developer Parry Petroplus has resigned from West Virginia University's Board of Governors effective today, officials said Wednesday. A press release from WVU announcing Petroplus' resignation gave no reason ...
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