Finding the Best Real Estate Agents in Norman, OK

Now more than ever, it is vital to work with top notch real estate agents in Norman, Oklahoma to get you the best deal when you buy or sell a home. Inside this comprehensive guide you will learn more about how to find and choose the best agent for you!

Norman Real Estate Market Overview

With easy access to Oklahoma City, Norman is a fantastic option for those looking to live in a smaller community feel yet still 15-20 minutes to downtown OKC and settled in a community with all the stores you could possible need on a day-to-day basis! In Norman you can find houses with water views, luxury properties, first-time home buyer properties, townhouses, condos, and even older "bunk houses". Norman has quite a bit of new construction in all price ranges and plenty of established neighborhoods to choose from. 

Why You Need a Local Real Estate Agent

When it comes to understanding the real estate market and finding the right property/location for you, there is no better resource than realtors in Norman, Oklahoma. Here's why you need an agent to guide you:

1. Local Knowledge - a great agent possesses invaluable insights into the local market, neighborhoods, trends, and recent sales data
2. Exclusive Listings -  a great agent has a pocket full of off-market properties, or a network to find them
3. Strong negotiation skills - their negotiations skills can hugely impact your bottom line!

Qualities of top agents:

1. Strong knowledge of local market - in-depth understanding to teach out the ins and outs of trends and neighborhoods 
2. Excellent communication & availability - Responsive and proactive communication makes a huge difference in your real estate journey to ease concerns, or move quickly on a transaction
3. Strong client testimonials and proven track record - Positive reviews from past clients are always a win in choosing a top notch agent
4. Expansive network - Has a list of tried and trusted industry related professionals to include home inspectors, attorneys, title companies, and contractors to name a few. 

How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent

Finding the right agent for you requires some research and vetting. Here's how you get started:

1. Ask for Referrals - Ask your network for suggested agents
2. Check online reviews - Check out Google my business page, Zillow, Realtor.com, Yelp, etc.
3. Interview multiple agents - No shame in interviewing a few agents!

What to Listen for During Those First Interactions

1. Active Listening - is the agent actively listening to your goals and concerns and taking notes?
2. Personalized approach - Not one transaction and move is the same. Are they customizing an individualized approach for you?
3. Niche Experience - How knowledgeable are they if you're looking for a very specific type of property?

Key Questions to Ask

1. How long have you been working in the Norman real estate market?

2. What is your experience selling/buying properties similar to mine?

3. What is your commission/fees when working with you?

4. Can you recommend trusted lenders, contractors, inspectors, etc?

5. How will you market my property (if selling) or help me find the right home (if buying)?

6. How often will we communicate?

7. How do you determine the list price?

What to Expect During the Home Buying/Home Selling Process with an Agent

The best agents provide exceptional value at all stages of the process. Here is an overview of the buying and selling process:

BUYING A HOME

Be prepared before you even start looking at houses and be clear on what you want will help immensely! That's okay if you don't know quite yet what you want, a good agent can help you figure that out quickly.

• Pre-approved with a mortgage lender - this step cannot be overlooked before looking at homes. It is vital to know what financing is involved and what your budget is. 
• Make an offer 
• Negotiate the asking price
• Conduct due diligence
• Closing the deal

SELLING A HOME

Well presented homes sell faster. This isn't doable without a customized to-do list before making a property active on the market. Professional photography, videography, staging, strategic marketing, leveraging platforms and social media are a must!

• Staging a home
• Price your home competitively
• Listing and marketing your home
• Negotiating offers
• Closing and transfer of deed

FAQ

1. How much can I afford to spend on a home?
   • The answer isn't the same for any two people. Getting in touch with a local lender is the first place to start.
2. How long does the home buying process take?
   • It can take as little or long as you need! Average time is 3-6 months.
3. What costs should I expect beyond the purchase price?
   • Closing costs, inspections, property taxes and potential renovations. A great agent will give you a detailed breakdown of costs for each property. 
4. What are the costs associated with selling my home?
   • Agent commissions, closing costs and any pre-sale expenses like staging and/or repairs.
5. What is my home worth?
   • A great agent will use a specific cost approach to give you a competitive value of your property. Many factors go into play such as location, condition and amenities. 
6. How do I prepare my home for sale?
   • A great agent will take the time to walk through the property and make notes of items that need to be addressed so your home is put on the market in its best light, attracting the most buyers as possible. 

Get Expert Real Estate Advice

Your home is one of the biggest assets you will purchase and/or sell, which is why you need a highly skilled and communicative agent guiding you along the way. The best agents in Norman, Oklahoma can save you time and money. Before hiring an agent, interview and do your research and work with on that has a proven track record - Like Andrea Chambers Real Estate. 

Andrea Chambers, REALTOR & BROKER ASSOCIATE

Keller Williams Realty Elite

405-361-0440

[email protected]