What to look for in a realtor?

[Keith Torsen]

Hey, all! So I went to a social/networking event for real estate recently. I'm very new to this, so I was there looking for information about starting, and to see who the players in the game were at my local level. Met a lot of people, had a good time. I met a young realtor there, with his wife. I was my girlfriend. We all four talked business, and hit it off on a personal note, too. This realtor is about my age, at 26, and is early in his real estate career as well. I'm looking for my first deal in the Sacramento area, and will be house hacking the property. So my question for you is; in your experience, how highly do you value a personal relationship with a realtor?

[Brian Schmelzlen]

I think a personal relationship with a realtor is extremely important.  It is still a business relationship first, but having a personal relationship with the investor should generally help you.

I think it makes it more likely that your realtor will be willing to do more to help you out as you get started (might show you great investment opportunities that might otherwise go to more experienced investors your realtor also works with, might be more willing to make a number of low-ball offers for you, etc.).