When you’re ready to buy or sell a home, it’s important to choose the right real estate agent. But with so many agents out there, how do you know who to trust? Here are some essential tips for choosing the right agent for you.

Ask for recommendations of trusted real estate professionals.

First, ask your friends and family for recommendations. They may have had a good experience with an agent they would recommend.

Choose a local realtor.

Second, choose a LOCAL agent who is familiar with your area of interest. If your agent has lived in the area where you want to buy or sell, then they will have their finger on the pulse of the community. That means they can give you insider knowledge of local happenings, as well as LOCAL mortgage and title company connections. The LOCAL businesses you work with will go the extra mile for you. After all, one day you may be neighbors.

Interview real estate agents before you make a decision.

Third, interview several agents and ask them questions about their experience, their marketing plan, and what they would do if a problem arises during the transaction. Top notch agents expect to be interviewed and that sets up a great partnership for working together should you select him/her.

Select an agent who is right for you.

Finally, make sure the agent is compatible with your personality. You’ll be working closely with them on one of the biggest sales or purchases of your life. You want to have a sound communication style and understand each other’s expectations.

Having the right real estate agent can make or break your buying or selling experience -- including saving you money or getting more for you at closing. That’s why it's important to find the right real estate agent.

But how do you know who is the best fit for you? Here is a checklist of what to look for in a real estate agent:

• Familiarity with the local area and neighborhood
• Takes the time to become familiar with the features of the home for buyers or sellers
• Approachable and friendly
• Excellent reviews, plus professional handling of negative feedback
• Local reputation of closing deals quickly and successfully
• Creative negotiator and proactive problem solver
• Has experience with your specific selling scenario
• Listens to your needs
• Provides you with an up-front quote

Whether you are a seasoned or first-time home buyer or seller, having the right real estate agent to guide you through the process will alleviate any undue stress or strain.

Dripping Springs Elite Real Estate Professionals is an organization of 25 top producing real estate agents from different brokerages who live and work in Dripping Springs, Texas, and the surrounding area. When trying to decide who you would like to represent you during your next real estate transaction, consider a Dripping Springs Elite member. They have a proven track record, which is one of the criteria for membership.