Brian MacDonald

Writing things down on paper helps clarify our thoughts. So, make a list of what you want and don't want in your new home then sort the list into 3 categories: 1) Must have it or I won't buy it, 2) Want it but would buy the home without it so long as it meets other key criteria, 3) If it has this (bad feature) it is disqualified. Once you do this you're on your way to success.

Pick an agent who you can trust AND who has done a lot of recent business. You need to trust him/her so that you can feel good about following their advice, especially if that advice is to lower your price or repair something that is costly. You also want your agent to be current and experienced. It may surprise you to learn that only about 20% licensed real estate agents do more than 10 sales per year. You are hiring an agent for their competence. Much of that competence is gained by experiencing the multitude of challenges that arise during the process. Hiring an agent who does a lot of business and is focused on real estate as their full-time career is your best bet for satisfaction and success.