Learn How to Hire a Realtor You Can Trust | Realtor NY

Finding a good real estate agent in New York City can be a daunting task. In this blog, I’ll guide you through the process to evaluate and hire realtor in NY; this will help you to make an informed decision so you can achieve your real estate goals.

Hiring the right realtor is crucial. With its fast pace, high prices, and complex regulations, New York City can make finding the right home or investment property difficult. An expert can help you maneuver the competitive landscape, ensure you find the best deals, and simplify the entire process.

If you’re considering buying your first home soon, my Ultimate NYC Buyer’s guide can help >>>

Understanding the Role: Realtor NY

Before diving into the selection process, it's essential to understand what a realtor does and how they can assist you in New York City’s unique market.

• Seller’s Agent vs. Buyer’s Agent vs. Listing Agent:

  • A licensed real estate salesperson is a licensed professional who assists clients in buying, selling, or renting properties. They must adhere to a strict code of ethics as part of their professional association such as the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY).

  • A buyer’s agent represents home buyers, advocating for their interests throughout the transaction​. They find their buyer properties to consider, schedule tours, and provide assistance to negotiate the best prices. They also help their clients navigate NYC's regulatory landscape.

  • A listing agent works for the property seller or landlord, aiming to secure the highest price for the property they represent.

  • A tenant’s agent represents renters as they search for apartments to lease. Like a buyer’s agent, they find properties, schedule tours and provide guidance during the rental transaction.

Being a buyer’s agent, a tenant’s agent or a listing agent does not require any additional certification. Anyone with a Real Estate Salesperson license can operate in any of these capacities. However, some real estate agents chose to specialize in certain types of transactions.

Understanding these distinctions ensures you hire the right professional based on your needs.

Key Qualifications to Look for in a Realtor

Now that you know what type of realtor to look for, you may be wondering how to assess whether the professional you’ve contacted is going to be the right person for your needs. You need someone with the right expertise, experience, and local knowledge.

• Licensing and Certification: Your realtor must be licensed to operate in New York City. These credentials indicate that the person your hiring will adhere to industry standards and is commitment to ethical real estate practices.

• Local Knowledge: Look for a realtor with a proven track record, particularly in the NYC neighborhoods you’re interested in. Each neighborhood has its own characteristics, pricing dynamics, and community culture​.

• Expertise: Your realtor should have a good understanding of NYC-specific real estate processes such as co-op board approvals, condo rules, and zoning regulations. An experienced realtor can help you navigate these complexities smoothly.

• Track Record and Client Testimonials: Review past client testimonials and ask the realtor about their recent transactions. A solid reputation and a history of successful deals are good indicators of a reliable and effective professional.

Questions to Ask a Prospective Realtor

Interviewing potential realtors is a critical step. It helps you assess their capabilities and find someone who matches your needs and preferences. Here are a few questions you can ask (I break each one down even more in another blog article):

• Do you work with buyers, renters, or sellers?

• What is your strategy for finding or marketing properties?

• What is your experience with my target neighborhood?

• What can I expect to pay in terms of your commission structure?

Red Flags to Avoid

Just as there are qualities to seek, there are warning signs to watch out for before hiring a realtor in NY.

• Lack of Time or Personal Commitment: Beware of agents who seem too busy to give you the attention you deserve. Ask how many clients they currently manage and whether they have the time to prioritize your needs​.

• Pushy Sales Tactics: A realtor should respect your decision-making process and work at your pace. While a good agent will push you to act fast when it suits your goals, avoid those who pressure you into quick decisions or push properties that don’t align with your needs.

• Inadequate Knowledge of Regulations: NYC’s real estate market comes with its own set of rules, from co-op board approvals to zoning laws. Ensure that your realtor has comprehensive knowledge of these regulations. Agents unfamiliar with these aspects could cause delays or complications in your transaction.

Steps to Evaluate and Choose the Right Realtor

After narrowing down your options, it’s time to evaluate and make the final decision. This section offers a step-by-step approach to finding the right match.

• Find Some Candidates: Find around three agents you like. You can ask family and friends for recommendations or use Google to find some real estate agents in your area.

• Set Up Consultations: Schedule meetings with your three realtors to gauge their understanding of your needs. Establishing a good rapport is essential as you’ll be working closely with this person throughout your real estate journey. You can schedule a consultation with me by reaching out on my contact page.

• Ask Questions & Ask for Testimonials: Ask some of the questions suggested in this blog post. Additionally, many real estate agents have reviews available to read online. You can alternatively request contact information for past clients and follow up to get honest feedback. This step can provide insight into the realtor’s working style and levels of client satisfaction.

• Make a Decision and Stick With it (At Least For a Bit): Chose one real estate agent to work alongside. Working with more than one can be overwhelming and often inefficient.

Choosing the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right realtor sets you up for success in NYC’s real estate market. The right professional will not only simplify the process but also act as your advocate, ensuring you get the best possible deal. By using these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to find a realtor who aligns with your needs, making your real estate journey as smooth and successful as possible.

I’m Here to Help

I’m here to guide you through your real estate journey. My name is Kristen Shaker, and I’m a licensed Real Estate Salesperson in New York City. Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to make a move, you can contact me to get started here. Let’s make your NYC real estate dreams a reality! And if you’re a home buyer don’t forget to download my FREE Ultimate Buyer’s Guide — it’s packed with valuable insights and tips to help you make the best decision for your future.