Buying a home is often one of the most fulfilling and exciting experiences in your life. But it can also be a stressful and complicated process. That’s why the most important thing you can do for your own peace of mind is to partner with a knowledgeable and experienced real estate broker. A good broker can help you through all the various phases of the process, and will be able to provide you with information that will help you to make an informed decision for your family. Here are some of the criteria you can use to choose the right REALTOR^®:

Location. It’s important to find a broker who is based in the area where you want to live. If you’re planning to buy a home in Brampton, for example, find a REALTOR^®who has offices in the Brampton area. Only a local broker will be able to provide you with the kind of specialized information that you’ll need to choose a neighbourhood and a home.

Many people choose to rely on statistics to make their decisions. They ask questions such as: What is the job market like in the area? What is the median house price in a certain neighbourhood? How did the local schools score on provincial EQAO tests? A local REALTOR^®, however, can provide a much deeper level of information. He/she may know that a particular neighbourhood is currently shifting from a family-oriented area to a bedroom community, or that pending permits for an upcoming development could change the nature and appearance of an area. He or she may be able to provide information about water quality, history, languages spoken, and much more.

Experience. For most people, a home is the biggest investment they will ever make. With such an important purchase, you don’t want a real estate broker who’s learning on the job! Seek out a REALTOR^® who has not only years of experience, but who also has expertise with the type of home you want to purchase.

Trust. It’s important to find a broker that you can trust. Explore websites of area real estate brokers, and look at the properties they list; see which ones’ appeal to you, and create a short list. Meet with the professionals on your list to see whether or not they will be a good match for your family’s needs. Does the REALTOR^® provide good answers to the questions you have? Does he or she ask the right questions of you? Will the broker provide all of the services you will require such as:

•        Helping to ascertain that your finances are in place
•        Finding appropriate listings
•        Scheduling home showings
•        Taking you to the locations and showing you through the houses
•        Negotiating with sellers
•        Walking you through the process of putting in an offer
•        Reviewing and explaining contractual obligations
•        Being present for the home inspection
•        Accompanying you to the closing

Most importantly, can you communicate clearly and directly with the REALTOR^®? It’s crucial to find a broker who understands your needs.

Before signing, check to be sure that he or she is a member of RECO, the Real Estate Council of Ontario, the professional organization that maintains ethical standards.

Once you’re on the path to finding the right REALTOR^®, use their experience so you can relax and enjoy the process of finding the perfect home for your family!