Searching for a new home can be an overwhelming challenge. Many people don’t know where to look for available properties, have difficulties arranging showings and struggle with the paperwork and jargon. This is why selecting the best realtor for you is an important step in finding your new home.

Consider first, realtors and real estate agents / brokers are not the same designation. Both are licensed and capable of guiding you through the home buying and selling process; but a realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Realtors pay membership dues, and they have access to MLS and a plethora of market data and information. They are also held to strict codes of conduct and ethics outlined by NAR.

What are some points of consideration you should take when selecting a realtor or agent?

1. Ensure your realtor or agent’s license is in good standing with the state.

2. Ask about your realtor or agent’s geographic specialties – in which parts of the city or state do they typically operate?

3. Be sure that your realtor or agent has access to and is familiar with MLS (Multiple Listing Service) or other real estate availability search services.

4. Full–time agent or part–time? You know how much time you’ll be dedicating to house hunting, so be sure your realtor or agent has equal availability.

5. Get a feel for the average homebuyer your agent or realtor typically works with, and come to an agreement about the best times for showings, calls, etc.

Your relationship with your real estate agent has the potential to be short or long – term. Feel confident that you both are compatible business partners and that each of you is committed to working together toward a common goal.

The Southeast has seen record flooding during the past few months. First Atlanta, then Nashville, southern cities – typically outside the dangers of flooding – are primarily unprepared to deal with large volumes of water. It’s damaging to the commercial and residential sectors of the community, and it takes great preparation and relief efforts to make managing a flood possible.

In Nashville, relief efforts range from cell phone texting, where individuals can donate via a text message, to baseball games, the proceeds going toward the relief effort.

In addition to the presence of relief organizations such as Red Cross, Nashville residents have rallied to raise awareness and aid on their own. Several fundraisers – arts and music festivals, car shows, auctions and benefit concerts – are scheduled over the next few months.

While most of downtown Nashville is open for business, some retail owners and home owners are still working to salvage and recover.

What should you do, as a homeowner, if you’re in danger of imminent flooding? There are some basic preparation tips and helpful advice, from Safe Emergency Services’ (SES) FloodSafe.

• Have a readiness kit packed and kept in the home at all times. Include items such as a radio and batteries, flashlight, first aid kit, emergency contact numbers, sturdy shoes, extra clothes and a waterproof bag for valuables. If forced to evacuate, remember medications, fresh water and food.
• When flooding is likely, do as many of the following as possible: stack possessions and electrical objects as high as you can, weigh down items that might float and cause damage, relocate cleaners, chemicals and waste from low locations, gather pets, locate emergency kit.
• If evacuation is unavoidable, turn off your electricity, gas and water before leaving. Stay in contact with your neighbors – safety in numbers. Try to remain cognizant about weather updates, evacuation shelter locations and your surroundings.

Floods are some of the most devastating natural disasters, and it takes commercial real estate, residential homes, apartments … entire cities much effort and time to recover. Remember these tips in the midst of a flood situation, and try hard to stay calm and panic–free.