Like a lot of things in life, it’s usually best to leave it to the experts. Buying a home is no exception. Some people may think looking for a home without hiring a real estate brokerage is easy. However, in difficult markets like the Victoria real estate market, not being informed or knowing the ins and outs of how it operates might put you at an automatic disadvantage.
Hiring a REALTOR® when looking for a home in Victoria, BC has a ton of advantages. They know the market and the area and understand the trends — past and present. Because Victoria has such a low occupancy rate, it can be difficult to find a home, let alone the home of your dreams. In an effort not to convince, but to be realistic, we want to outline why hiring a REALTOR® puts you, the buyer, at an advantage and can help you land your dream home much more efficiently than if you decide to go about it alone. We also wanted to help outline how you and your agent can have the best possible working relationship.
Hire a REALTOR® or Deal Directly with Listing Agents?
Decide whether you want to work without being represented and go to listing agents directly or hire your own agent to handle all your affairs. The upside to hiring an agent is it can provide a much more personal experience. Your agent can get to know you and understand what you’re looking for in a home. Before you hire an agent though, make sure you interview them so you find one you feel comfortable with.
Don’t Cancel Appointments
This happens a lot in the industry. If an agent is taking time out of their day to help you, please be on time and there for them. An agent wants to find you your dream home, and it won’t help anyone if you don’t show up for viewings. If something comes up or you’re running late, make sure you let your agent know.
Make Sure You Are Ready to Buy
Don’t start this entire process unless you’re absolutely sure you’re ready to purchase a new home. It’s imperative you aren’t wasting anyone’s time. People are taking time out of their day to help put you in the home of your dreams. If you aren’t serious about it then what’s the point? Hiring an agent is like hiring any service person. You’re hiring someone to complete a service for something that needs doing. In return, you expect them to get the job done in an efficient and timely manner. If a REALTOR® does that for you but you aren’t serious, then you shouldn’t have hired them in the first place.
Sometimes, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Pemberton Holmes is a real estate brokerage with agents located here in Victoria, and across the Island. We pride ourselves on hiring REALTORS® that understand the current climate and are well informed on the real estate market. If you’re looking for your dream home, contact us today. You’ll soon see why partnering with us will get you into the home of your dreams.
