Relocating to a new city or neighborhood is a significant life change that involves a myriad of decisions. One of the most crucial decisions you'll make during this process is choosing the right real estate agent to guide you through the intricacies of buying a new home.
To ensure a smooth and successful relocation, it's essential to ask your real estate agent the following three important questions.
What's the traffic like?
Before entrusting someone with the responsibility of finding your new home, inquire about their knowledge of the local life. A proficient real estate agent should be well-versed in neighborhood specifics, like traffic and transportation. In some cities, for example, a twenty-mile commute that takes 20 minutes to complete can extend to an hour or more during the morning rush.
Another question to ask along the same lines is the parking situation in the city. If you are relocating to a metropolitan area and plan to drive to work, it's important to know whether the parking space will be included in the purchase price of the home or apartment, or if you'll be expected to find a space on your own.
Do you offer relocation services?
Moving to a new city involves unique challenges, and an experienced real estate agent can make a significant difference in navigating those challenges. Ask your agent for referrals on trusted local contractors, utility providers, electricians, doctors, dentists, plumbers, and more.
If your agent doesn't offer relocation advice, they can likely connect you with someone who does, which helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free relocation experience.
Tip: Let the relocation specialist get to know you so they can determine how to best serve you. Discuss with them your new home's ideal location, your marital status, whether you have kids, and any requirements you have for schools, hobbies, and jobs.
How do we keep in touch?
Clear communication is the cornerstone of a successful real estate transaction, especially when you're relocating. Ask your agent about their communication style and how they prefer to stay in touch. Are they responsive to calls and emails? Do they keep clients updated on new listings and market changes? Additionally, inquire about their availability. Will they be able to accommodate your schedule, especially if you're relocating from a different time zone? Understanding these aspects upfront can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smoother collaboration.
