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Ottawa Buyers, you have over 2500 Realtors to choose from

I have been a licensed real estate agent for just under 2 years in Ottawa. I decided to become an agent for several reasons. My decision was made when I was in the process of buying my first home about 3 years ago. Being new to Ottawa, my resources and contact base was limited. I was renting a downtown condo at Laurier Avenue and Nicolas Street and paying way too much rent. My ex-boss recommended I use the services of his real estate agent. Not knowing anyone myself, I thought it would be best to use someone recommended to me. As a first time home buyer, I relied on the agent's expertise to get me through this experience.

At our first meeting in a coffee shop, he asked me to sign all sorts of paperwork which I found out later, were not the standard forms. Over the next several months, he spent very little time getting to know me or what I was looking for. Consequently, we visited over 50 homes in a short time before he finally gave up on me and passed me over to another agent in his office. As any first time home buyer will agree, it can be a very frustrating and lengthy process and you rely on your agent to keep you optimistic, motivated and focused. Purchasing a home is an emotional act and you just feel it. Your realtor has a duty to act in your best interest at all times and not act negatively towards you. My agent did not make encouraging or positive suggestions and my frustration was growing too. In the end, I asked the agent to release me from any obligation because I felt that he was not behaving or acting in my best interest. It was both embarrassing and awkward, but I had to be happy and satisfied with the person who was representing me. We are talking about making the biggest investment in your life.

I met Craig Smith at this time, who is now my business partner.  Craig has been a realtor for over 14 years and it didn't take him long to step into the role of my agent. I put in an offer to purchase a home and after some negotiating, I was a homeowner! I told Craig the story of my experience insuring him that I was a reasonable person who just wanted to find a home. He was sympathetic for the other agent, but happy to get my business. 

I guess what I am hoping to share with all of you, is that you have a choice to work with the realtor who best understands your wants and needs, and who you feel comfortable with. I recommend that you commit to ONE realtor when you are searching for your next home who you feel has a connection with you. There are over 2500 licensed realtors in Ottawa, and you have the opportunity to work with any one of them. Should you be obligated to work with an agent who is a friend or family member just because?

Don't let buying a home be a negative experience. If are dissatisfied with your realtor, voice that and try to work things out. If all fails, look for another one.

You deserve to work with the best. Nothing but the BEST is good enough!

Yours Sincerely,
Wendy Cheung

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