Choosing a Real Estate Agent to Find a New Home in Florida
Real estate is the business of Florida.
Ever since the first settlers arrived in the Sunshine State, millions of people have longed for their piece of paradise. For most people, a real estate agent helped them find a new dream home in Florida. Because of that, Florida closely regulates the real estate industry. In addition, real estate agents who belong to the Florida Association of Realtors follow strict ethical guidelines.
At Babcock Ranch, you’ll find the best real estate agents working on your behalf. There are so many great real estate agents your biggest challenge will be choosing the right one to find a new home in Florida.
Find a Real Estate Agent
One of the best ways to find a real estate agent is by asking friends, family and people whose judgment you trust. At Babcock Ranch, we can put you in touch with the best agents in the region by calling us at (941) 235-6900.
If you’re new to Florida, visit the Florida Realtors website’s search page to find agents close to you. You can find out about their expertise and the unique services they provide before contacting them.
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Real Estate regulates the industry. It is responsible for the examination, licensing and regulation of over a quarter of a million individuals, corporations, real estate schools and instructors.
Real estate sales associates must successfully complete an approved pre-licensing course consisting of 63 classroom-hours. Then, candidates must pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Examination with a grade of at least 75 or pass the Florida Real Estate Law Exam with a grade of at least 30, submit a completed application and electronic fingerprints.
It’s a good idea to verify a real estate agent’s license. To do that, click on the “verify a License” tab at the top of the department’s home page here.
Ask the Right Real Estate Questions
Once you’ve narrowed your search and verified an agent’s license, asking the right questions will help you identify the right agent for you.
A recent article in Realtor.com offers some helpful questions you might consider asking. Among them:
- What experience do you have in my immediate area?
- What is your fee and how will you be paid?
- Do you represent buyers, sellers or both?
If you’re in the market for a new home, consider hiring a buyer’s agent. According to Realtor.com a buyer’s agent can:
- Find the right property;
- Negotiate an offer on your behalf to get the best price;
- Recommend other professionals such as home inspectors, mortgage brokers, real estate attorneys, movers and others.
- Help overcome setbacks such as appraisals or home inspections that may cause unexpected delays at settlement.
Some of the best and most professional real estate agents work with Babcock Ranch, so call us at (941) 235-6900 for referrals.