Hiring a real estate agent to sell your home or help you buy a new one can be a daunting task. Keep in mind our quick tips to avoid common pitfalls and find yourself with the exact right person who will guide you through your real estate journey without unnecessary complications.

1. Keep it local
   Hiring a local agent provides a teammate with local connections and insights. Familiarity with the nuances of your area helps in making informed decisions. Local agents know about upcoming city plans and have connections with mortgage brokers, appraisers, and inspectors, facilitating a smooth transaction.
   
   
2. Interview more than one
   The process of buying or selling real estate isn't quick. You want to find someone you click and trust with, who will return calls and be there through thick and thin.
   
   
3. Get reviews
   Consider what other people are saying. Reviews can provide valuable insights into an agent's dealings with previous clients.
   
   
4. Check them out on social media
   A serious real estate agent will be active on social networks, sharing valuable tools, insights, and resources. Social media is a good measure of an agent's commitment to their community.
   
   
5. Do they have an organized marketing plan
   Effective marketing goes beyond a “For Sale” sign. Productive agents list your home in multiple places, present it professionally, and utilize various advertising methods for optimal exposure.
   
   
6. Consider referrals
   Referrals can provide specifics that help ensure you end up with the right fit for your needs.
   
   
7. Part-time or full-time?
   An agent’s commitment and experience are often reflected in whether they work part-time or full-time. Full-time agents typically bring more experience and knowledge to the table.
   
   
8. Do they have staff?
   Staff support indicates experience and productivity, offering extra sets of eyes and specialized assistance for a smoother experience.
   
   
9. Find an experienced agent
   An experienced agent with comprehensive knowledge of real estate, the market, and local nuances is crucial. The implications of buying or selling a home are significant, and an experienced professional can maximize benefits.

As you explore your options and search for your next real estate agent, consider Coming Home Group with REAL. Fourteen REALTORS® work out of our office on Main Street in downtown Cañon City, and between them they cover first-time buyers, land, farm and ranch property, investment deals, and commercial real estate. We can match you with the agent whose background actually fits your situation.

This article and the video above were created by REALTOR® Kurt Zerby, who served Cañon City and Fremont County for 47 years before retiring. Kurt chose Coming Home Group with REAL to take care of his clients, and we are glad to keep his advice available here.

Have a question about buying or selling in Cañon City? Call Coming Home Group with REAL at (719) 792-1111 or send us a message. We are happy to help, with no obligation.