How does one go about hiring a realtor?

Answer 1

Simply by making a phone call based on what listing you're looking for. Be sure to inquire as to what they charge for commission as in many states this is negotiable.

Answer 2

You know I'd suggest looking at houses first on the net, find out what you can afford to pay a month for your mortgage, 1000$, 2000$, etc... If you can put a down payment or not, typically 10% or 20% of the price of the house. Also, look at new houses, they will get you a better deal, some will even cover your closing costs, or give you a credit if you use their financing, insurance, etc... Buying a new house has many many advantages right now over buying an older one. One is that the market is beginning to get flooded with too many new houses, so they are going to do their best to get you to buy, by giving you a killer deal. The only real downside to buying a new house is a general lack of landscaping on your property.

You're not going to find a definitive answer on here, you're just going to have to get out there, and decide what you can afford, what you are looking for in a house. Try to stay away from going through a realtor until you know exactly what it is you want. If you buy a new house, you'll only have to go through the builder, which in the end will generally save you plenty of $$$$. One final thing, make sure your credit is as spotless as possible, go through freecreditreport.com, and get any adverse stuff on there cleared up before you commit to anything, a better credit score can make a difference between having a $4000 mortgage, in my case, or a $3700 mortgage. Trust me on this one.

Bought my last two houses without using a realtor, sold my last one with a realtor, cost us 22K in commission.

http://www.centexhomes.com/
My house here in Cali is built by them and these guys are #1, and you'll be ultra happy with the quality you get with these guys. I'm telling you, trust me on this one.

Answer 3

Just call the office, and tell them what kind of property you are looking for. They will be happy to check all the listings for you. You don't have to pay a realtor, if you are buying property, the seller is responsible for that..The seller, hires a realtor, to sell there property..good luck..