Welcome back to 'Straight Talk with Rick and Meghan!' We're talking about the biggest financial decision of your life: buying a home. And the first step is choosing the right partner to guide you through it. This isn't about personality—it's about performance. Here's what we'll cover: 1. Not Checking an Agent's Track Record and Reviews Everyone checks reviews for a new restaurant or a contractor, but many people don't do the same for their real estate agent. This is a huge mistake. Reviews and track records are a window into an agent's real-world performance. 2. Hiring an Agent with a Passive Approach A lot of agents will simply set up an automated search for you and wait for new listings to pop up. This is a passive approach that can cause you to lose out on your dream home. A great buyer's agent is a hunter. They are actively seeking out properties that might not be on the market yet, using their network, and getting you in the door first. 3. Not Understanding the Role of a Fiduciary The first and most critical mistake is not understanding the legal definition of a buyer's agent. A good agent is a fiduciary, which means they are legally and ethically bound to put your interests above their own. They must be transparent with you and maintain strict confidentiality. 4. Failing to Have a Face-to-Face Meeting This is the person who will be representing your largest financial decision. Don't base your choice on a phone call or a few emails. 5. Working with an Agent Who Is Not Locally Grounded The real estate market is hyper-local. An agent who is not actively working in your desired area may not have a finger on the pulse of inventory, pricing trends, and neighborhood nuances. A great local agent knows the schools, the local businesses, and the community—all of which are invaluable resources that a non-local agent can't provide. Meghan Shigo, Realtor Century 21 Affiliated DRE 01243803