Don't rush. Don't start showing prospective buyers random properties. And don't hesitate to ask questions . The more questions you ask, the better, because it demonstrates greater interest and professionalism on your part. People like to talk, and even more so, to be listened to.
Listening to and noting all your needs and desires will make the process of finding your ideal home much easier. Here are 10 questions that a real estate agent should never ignore when asking buyers looking to purchase a home:
- Are you interested in buying or do you prefer to rent?
This is a fundamental question you should always ask at the beginning to ensure you understand preferences and what they're truly looking for. This way, you can determine which market to focus on. Your client might be interested in buying a home, but wouldn't rule out renting for a while until they find their ideal property, or even a rent-to-own option.
2. What is your ideal type of housing?
It will allow you to know in detail what your client wants
What could you do without, and what couldn't you?
Beyond their wishes, also ask them what their must-have . This way, you can eliminate many properties and narrow down your search. Just as you asked for their must-have list, ask for their non-negotiable . Some of the properties you can offer will likely meet many of their requirements, but not all of them.
4. Who will live in the house?
It will help you define your needs in terms of space, number of rooms, and nearby amenities. How many people will be living in the home? Are there children? Elderly people? Pets?
5. What is your lifestyle like?
Understanding your client's lifestyle will also help you define their needs . Put yourself in their shoes, fully understand all their requirements, and present only the options that are a good fit. If they travel frequently, a home near the airport or with good transport links would be ideal. If they work from home, they'll likely appreciate having an extra room to set up an office. Which school do their children attend? Show them nearby housing options.
6. What is the deadline for moving in?
This way, you can determine if a renovation , or if your client is in a hurry to move and you need to find a move-in ready home. Some prefer to save on the purchase price and invest in a renovation to their liking, while others prefer to buy a move-in ready property. At this point, timelines and the client's willingness to oversee the renovation play a significant role.
7. What is your budget?
Your client may have a very clear idea of their wants, needs, deadlines, and must-haves, but this might not fit within their available budget . It's important that they understand the typical price range for what they're looking for. Also, inform them of all the additional expenses involved in buying a home, beyond the purchase price itself.
8. Are you going to sell a property before buying it?
If their intention is to sell one property to buy another, the actual investment required will be lower, and you may be able to show them properties of a higher value. Furthermore, this will allow you to assist them with both transactions simultaneously , making the process much simpler for them.
9. Are you going to ask for financing?
If your client needs to apply for a mortgage , it's important to advise them on the monthly income required by their household to cover the payments. Also, inform them that financial institutions typically grant a maximum of 80% of the property's value, so they will need savings to cover the remainder.
10. What would you do if we found the house you're looking for today?
Your client may simply be interested in exploring the available properties on the market, or they may be ready to buy. In either case, this question will help you determine their situation. Knowing whether your client wants or needs to find a home in the short or long term will help you define the strategy .
Source: https://www.agoramls.es/author/controllermls/
