No one buys or sells a home alone. You need the help of a professional – and likely a whole team of professionals – to assist you in achieving your goals and protecting your interests.

A real estate transaction can be stressful enough. So when it comes to choosing professionals to help you – before, during and after the transaction – be selective.

Typically, you will require at least a REALTOR® and a title company to complete the purchase and/or sale. But you may also need a lender, home inspector, insurance broker, attorney, home improvement contractor, landscape specialist, tradesperson(s), interior designer, etc. Here are three important factors to consider when making your choices:

1. Qualifications
   Before you hire any professional, make sure they have the appropriate qualifications. Ask specifically what degree, certification or training they’ve received. Many professionals in the home industry are licensed or certified by their respective professional or trade associations. Ask to see these documents.
2. Experience
   Real estate transactions can be a complicated venture.  While all agents are licensed in the state of Missouri, not all have the experience and training to handle your specific transaction such as residential, commercial, investment, relocation, or new home construction.  Remember, you’ll be relying heavily on the skill, advice and insights of the professional you hire. Make sure they have experience in the specific field you require.
3. Reputation
   Ask for client testimonials and references. Be sure to call these people and ask for their candid opinions of the services provided. Talk to others in the industry. Word of a good, as well as a bad, reputation gets around.

Choosing the right professional is like picking the right players for a baseball team. The better you choose, the more likely you are to win the game. (Or, in this case, the home of your dreams.)