One of the best ways to survive the home-buying process, especially for first-time buyers, is to find a realtor that's right for you. The experienced realtors at Dalton Realty have met the home-buying and -selling needs of Clinton, WA, residents for more than 40 years. From their experiences, they've crafted a helpful list to assist you in finding the right real estate agent.

Use these five tips to guide you through the process of finding and hiring the perfect realtor:

Ask Around the Community

One of the best ways to find a great realtor is word of mouth. Begin your search by asking your friends, family, and co-workers that live in the area about their experiences. Be sure to make a list of their favorite realtors and begin your research.

Review Current Listings

Check the property listings in the areas that you'd like to buy, and view which agents serve that area. Also, look at the length of time the houses have been listed. Spend the next few weeks making notes on which agents have the quickest turnarounds.

Check Their Licensing

Once you have a list of possible realtors, begin checking the state of their realtor licenses. Most states offer a database that lists the realtors with up-to-date licenses.

Review Their Credentials

You should also look through their list of credentials. For instance, look at their years of experience and any rewards they've received from their work within the industry. Also look for certifications that mark specialty areas, such as a Certified Residential Specialist.

Meet With the Realtor

Narrow down your selection to one or two realtors, and then schedule a meeting with them. Let them know exactly what you're looking for and see how quickly they suggest listings, then verify that those listings match your criteria. A sign of a great realtor is the ability to listen to the buyers.

If you're a first time home buyer in the Clinton area, contact Dalton Realty to find a realtor. With more than four decades of real estate experience, these skilled realtors will find you the perfect collection of property listings that meet all of your size and budget needs. Call them today at (360) 341-1666 or visit their website for more information.