Agent's Protocol

Your agent is your number one resource when it comes to navigating the world of buying a house. He or she can be tremendously helpful when it comes evaluating the properties that you look at and prioritizing the qualities that you are looking for in your dream home.

To best take advantage of the insight that your realtor has to offer you need to understand the proper way to interact with him or her. Most importantly, you need to keep in mind that your agent does not get paid unless he or she makes a sale. Thus, make sure that you are ready to buy. If you are still on the fence, the Internet is a great option if you are still in the "just looking" phase.

If you are ready to take the jump into home ownership, though, here are a few more tips to make sure that your relationship with your realtor is both effective and enjoyable.

• Be ready to buy. Always bring your checkbook when your agent is showing you a house.
• Talk to your agent about going to open houses. Some agents prefer that you only go to open house accompanied by them.
• Be aware that most people who go to open houses are not yet represented by an agent. Thus, you may encounter agents who are looking for unrepresented buyers. Always be forward about the fact that you are already represented.
• Understand that the listing agent works for you the seller, not for you. Do not mistakenly cut your agent out of the deal by working with the listing agent directly.
• Always remember to use common courtesy with your agent. Remember that he or she almost certainly has many clients to attend to. If you cannot make an appointment or are going to be late, call your agent ahead of time.
• Be very clear about what you want in a house. If your agent shows you a house that you did not like, tell them why you did not like it.