Starting the homebuying process is an exciting time for first-time homebuyers, but it can also feel overwhelming. A key to navigating this journey is finding a real estate agent that can help you through each phase, including: mortgage preapproval, home search, loan application, inspection(s), appraisal, insurance, and closing.
Several factors to consider when finding a real estate agent are:
- Experience in the local market in which you want to reside
- Consistent and clear communication channels that fit your preferences, such as, email, text, or phone calls
- Relationships with other industry service providers, such as mortgage lenders, title companies, and home repair services
- References and reviews from previous clients
- The contents of the buyer agency agreement including:
- Length of the agency period
- Amount of commission owed to the real estate agent
- Other services offered to the buyer
Homebuyers can find a real estate agent by asking friends and family for recommendations, searching online reviews of real estate agents in your local area, or visiting the Ohio Division of Real Estate or Ohio Association of Realtors website.
For more tips and resources on the homebuying process, reference OHFA's Homebuyer Guide.
