The right Realtor

[Brian Smith]

OK,

How do you find a good Realtor?

1. Trial and error
2. Call
3. ???

I have ran through several Realtors and man is it hard to find one that isn't an idiot. Possibly it is my fault (patience, explaining what I need, etc.), but sheesh. They talk to me as if I am stupid and try to give me all kinds of dumb advice. I am no expert and am always willing to listen, but if I have to listen to one more 20 minute lecture on how a property will cash flow because it will cover the mortgage payments I am going to scream. :shoot:

[Will Barnard]

I like the last added line David. It is very true. Just the same as You do not want Your time wasted, neither does an experienced Realtor.

Here is the deal. You pre-screen the Realtors by asking some simple questions.
1). Do they work with investors currently? (Answer should be Yes)
2) How many investors are they working with and how many investments in total have they closed on for investors? (Should be at least 10 annually)
3) Do they invest in RE (other than their own residence or vacation homes)? Answer should be Yes. Find out how many and check it out via Title or have them prove it.
4) Do they work closely with any managemnt companies and if so, get the contact info and interview them as well. If you like the PM company, chances are the realtor is a good one.
5) Do they have a team of pros (title company, handyman, contractors, other repair related services) and get their information and interview them. - Qualify them all and if the realtor's contacts are good, then so should the realtor.
6) Ask them if they would like you to provide any information on you and your company. (If they do not, skip them, they will waste your time).

Lastly, your personalities should mix nicely. Building a relationship with them over time is a necessity. It is very important that they understand that "burning you" will end up costing them dearly in the future.