Pasadena, California, is a beautiful city located just outside Los Angeles. It’s a fantastic place to live, and Pasadena homes for sale are very much in demand. If you are looking to buy or sell a house here, you may be tempted to do it on your own and save the realtor’s commission. Although this may save you money, it can add a lot of stress, as navigating the ins and outs of the real estate market is beyond the expertise of all but qualified real estate professionals. You may encounter problems you find difficult or impossible to solve. If you want your home-buying or selling process to go as seamlessly as possible, it’s best to go with a Pasadena real estate agent. They have full training, knowledge, and experience in both buying and selling real estate. They know the neighborhoods, the current state of the market, and how to price your home competitively. Real estate agents can help you find mortgage lenders, repair companies, and real estate lawyers.
In order to find a great agent who can meet your needs, wants, and expectations, you will need to interview potential candidates. After all, you will be paying for the agent. Are you unsure of what questions you should ask? No worries. This guide will cover all critical questions you should ask when interviewing an agent.
1. How long have you been a realtor?
Obviously, the more experience an agent has working with Pasadena real estate for sale, the better. Someone new to the industry or the city will likely not have the skills or connections needed to successfully sell or purchase a home. However, this isn’t always the case — you can and should read any client testimonials to get a better picture of the agent. A less-experienced realtor with excellent referrals may still be a good choice.
2. What are your fees?
Buyers typically don’t have to be concerned with commissions, but if you are a seller, you are going to want this information upfront. A seller must pay the agent’s commission on a successful sale. In California, real estate commissions are typically 5-6% of the total sale, with the seller’s agent splitting the fee equally between the buyer’s agent. Commissions on properties priced at $1 million or more may be slightly less. When interviewing an agent, find out if their fees are typical of those collected for Pasadena homes for sale.
3. How many clients do you currently have?
This is an important question because you don’t want a Pasadena real estate agent with more clients than they can reasonably focus on. Selling or purchasing a home is likely one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and you don’t want to get lost in the shuffle. Ask if they have a good mix of buyers and sellers they’re currently representing. This could make a big difference, as potential buyers may be interested in purchasing your house.
4. What professionals do you network with?
Successfully buying or selling a home involves working with more industry experts than just real estate agents. Your home may need repairs before selling, or you may wish to renovate the home you are purchasing. Mortgage lenders are vital to your home search, as you will likely need financing to purchase your home. You will also need a lawyer to draw up contracts and handle the closing. Painters, flooring companies, stagers, and photographers may also be necessary to facilitate thIdeally, you want an agent withan agent who has a network of reliableople in all of these fields. Your agent can point you in the direction of any expert you may need to hire. This can make things easier and less stressful, as you’re not wasting time researching and interviewing candidates.
5. What will you do to get my house ready to sell?
If you are a seller, this is a key question for any potential real estate agent. You want a realtor who will walk through your home with you, inspecting it and recommending repairs or improvements that can help it sell faster and for more money. This could be as simple as painting and cleaning but may also involve renovations. Be careful with agents who suggest large and expensive projects, as they can significantly delay your home’s arrival on the market.
6. What’s the average selling timeframe?
As a seller, you want someone to buy your home as quickly as possible. However, there is no guarantee that your home will sell in a matter of days or weeks. You can do an online search to see the average days on the market for Pasadena homes and make sure your agent is typically within that range. If there are any homes that took significantly longer to sell, ask the agent why. Some factors, such as overpricing, can impact a home’s time on the market.
7. How long do you work with buyers?
If you’re buying a home, you want to take the time to find the best house for you. However, it’s understandable to be excited and eager to see homes. Ask any potential agents how quickly you can start viewing homes and how long it usually takes to get to closing. Buying a home doesn’t happen overnight, but a good agent should be a skilled negotiator who can give you an edge over other buyers.
8. The closing
You got approved for a mortgage, found a home you loved, and the house passed inspection. As a buyer, it’s now time for the closing. This is where you will sign a number of legal documents, finalizing the sale. Your mortgage lender will want an appraisal, and if your down payment is less than 20%, you will need mortgage insurance. Once the closing is complete, you will be a proud homeowner and ready to move in.
As a seller, you have accepted an offer and went under contract. Pending a successful inspection, your home will be ready to close. Your agent will sit with you and several key industry professionals to finalize the sale. During this process, you will receive funds from the buyer. Once the closing is complete, you will have successfully sold your home.
Are you looking at Pasadena homes for sale? Hoping to sell your home? You’ve come to the right place! Hiring a great real estate agent is essential in ensuring your home — or dream home — is in the right hands. Whether buying or selling, you should contact agent Andy Hairabedian today to schedule an interview.
