Whether you’re new to investment properties or you’ve been at it for a while, it’s critical to have someone in your court helping you make the best decisions. A Realtor often fills this role to great effect—after all, they have the qualifications!

However, a negative experience with an agent may make you rethink the whole thing. Don’t neglect this crucial step due to one bad sale—instead, read on to learn how to find a great Realtor for investment properties.

The Difference Between Agents and Realtors

Contrary to popular belief, real estate agents and Realtors are not interchangeable terms. A real estate agent has a real estate license and helps people buy and sell properties.

A Realtor does the same thing, holds the same license, but is also a member of the National Association of Realtors. This group has a strict code when dealing with customers and working on property sales. Essentially, all Realtors are agents, but not all agents are Realtors.

Find Someone Honest

If you describe an impossible-to-find, out-of-this-world investment property and your agent says, “No problem,” there’s a problem. Ideally, you want to find a Realtor who will tell you when something isn’t feasible. Look for an agent who deals more in numbers and figures than in hyperbole—they can actually deliver.

Communication Is Key

Our previous tip is meaningless if you don’t like the agent. You’re going to spend a lot of time with them when discussing what you’re looking for and analyzing the offers that come in—you need to enjoy their company. Good communication means a little more than being “an effective conversationalist.”

The best agents are easy to talk to and easy to get in touch with. A major red flag to look out for is a Realtor who goes a few days without returning your message. Who knows if they’ll go quiet again when the big offer comes in?

Once you’ve purchased the property, you need to decide whether it’s better for you to manage it yourself or if you should hire a management team. Property managers can save you time and money, so consider this option if you want to find more investment opportunities!

Now that you know how to find a great Realtor for investment properties, start your search and find an agent that gives you confidence!