Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a property, hiring the right realtor makes all the difference. Not only will a good real estate agent save you money, but they will also save you from taking on additional stress. What many Sedona residents fail to realize, though, is that not every realtor is the same.

Here are five mistakes to avoid when hiring a local realtor:

Going with the cheapest one

You look to pinch pennies whenever possible. But is it really the smartest idea to choose a cheap realtor? In short, the answer is no. Keep in mind that if your listing agent is working for a low commission, the split to the cooperating agent will also be reduced. Plus, the lower the commission, the less money will be available for marketing. Trust us — hiring the cheapest real estate agent could come back to bite you in the long run.

Overlooking experience

We hear about people all the time who hire a friend or family member to handle their real estate transaction. While trust is certainly a major factor in hiring a realtor, you shouldn’t hire just anyone. Not to mention, would you put your personal relationship at stake for what’s likely to be one of the largest financial decisions of your life? Unless you have a friend or family member with years of real estate experience in your specific location, it’s best to hire someone else.

Assuming all realtors know the same things

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Here at Brian & Cindy Real Estate, we’ve found that the best realtors are members of the State and National Associations. It’s also important to remember that each agent comes with their own unique experiences and knowledge base. As you meet with realtors, you’ll see that no two are the same.

Limiting your search to the highest selling agents

The best realtors don’t always sell more homes than anyone else. In our decades of experience, we’ve found that the most reputable agents effectively market their properties, negotiate the most favorable terms, and communicate with their clients to make the process simple and stress-free. There’s no question that you want to work with a realtor who goes above and beyond for you and your family.

Failing to do much independent research

Just like you would do when searching for a doctor or contractor, it’s important to do some research of your own before making a final decision on your realtor. In addition to experience, the best agents are also transparent and hold themselves to the highest standards in the real estate industry. At Brian & Cindy Real Estate, we suggest diving into reviews to see how an agent is viewed by their previous clients. If you notice a trend of red flags, it’s best to move on to the next realtor on your list.

Hire Our Sedona Realtor

The process of buying or selling a house can be incredibly stressful. As we mentioned at the beginning of the post, hiring the right real estate agent can make a world of difference. This is where the team at Brian & Cindy Real Estate comes into play. With more than 40 years of experience handling real estate transactions in Sedona, you can count on us to be your guide from start to finish.

Don’t make the mistake of hiring just any realtor. Contact a trusted agent today at Brian & Cindy Real Estate!