Choosing a Real Estate Agent
A lot of home buyers don’t realize that the multiple listing system (MLS) allows a real estate agent to show customers any house they’re interested in, so long as it’s listed on the MLS. The only houses that wouldn’t be listed on the MLS would be houses listed with independent real estate brokers that are not a part of the MLS or houses that are for sale by owner. And some independent real estate brokers will co-broker with other real estate brokers. The vast majority of houses today are listed on the MLS, which means that the home buyer only really needs to work with one real estate agent. The benefits of working with one agent are consistency and trust.
When you work with one real estate agent instead of having several show you houses, you get a more consistent level of service and you are able to work with someone you can trust. So do yourself a favor and pick an agent that is professional and trustworthy and stick with that agent. Don’t be calling every agent that’s on a listing you’re interested in. That will only create headaches for you.
Every agent has a different personality and business style. If you work with multiple real estate agents, you will undoubtedly get information overload and confused.
Find an agent you like and trust, and keep things simple. Once you find that agent, use that agent for your real estate needs. If you happen to see a house you really like and it’s listed with another agency and agent, you should still call your real estate agent to have them set up an appointment with the other agency for a showing.