When to start talking to an agent?

[Eric S.]

Hi All!

I have been on and off looking for properties to invest in in the Jersey City area but am having trouble finding anything. Realtor, Zillow and the like don't seem to have the greatest of deals and was wondering if I should just start talking to a real estate agent? I don't want to waste anyone's time and feel like since this will be my first investment I'll be extra picky and I'm still building up my down payment so I haven't contacted anyone yet. But when is the right time? And when I do go to contact one, what should I bring to them to show them I am serious? Also, how did you pick your agent? And how much should I expect out of the agent (what should/shouldn't they be doing for me and what should/shouldn't I be doing on my own)?

Thanks in advance!

[Patrice Penda]

Hey @Eric S.

You should talk to a real estate agent when you are ready to pull the trigger and buy as soon as you find the right property.

In preparation for that, make sure that :

- you know how much you can afford

- you have been pre-approved by a lender (if you are raising financing)

- you have the cash for the down-payment in the bank

- ideally you have the contact of a home-inspector to schedule the home-inspection asap

- you have the contact of an attorney you can use.

Knowing what you can afford and the type of property you are after, contact the real-estate agents with property listed and explain them what you are after.

Good agents will take that information and source properties for you that matches your criteria.

As you start engaging with more and more realtors, you'll have a feel for the one who understands your requirement, you are confortable working with and is good at his/her job.

That is my 2 cents