Working with a Real Estate Agent

Most of the long term Real Estate agents are in a position to retire. There is a saying that we aren’t in the business to sell Real Estate, we are in the business to buy it. Most of the long time agents bought properties in the 1980s, 1990s, and now have a portfolio that is worth more than they ever imagined. One of the best agents I know retired to Hawaii in 2008, but found some great deals there, and bought, four years later those properties are worth another small fortune, go figure.

We are in a crazy, volatile market. It’s hard to know who to trust, and in my posts here, I’ve talked about some of the good agents that I known.

The reason for this post is that Real Estate agents are different from Real Estate sales. Agents want you to be happy, and make good decisions. They have the luxury to work with you rather than make a sale to make a car payment.

What I always suggest is that you take the time to shop for a Real Estate agent. The number one tip I can give you is to get away from the computer, and go out into the neighborhoods that interest you. Look at the for sale signs, go to Sunday open houses, and network. Real Estate is a relationship business and you should cultivate relationships.

Get to know the players before you enter the game.