Whether you're relocating out of your current area for work-related purposes or just want a change of pace, you may be busy browsing real estate listings in your prospective new city. When it comes time to submit an offer on your next home, you'll want an experienced and well-regarded real estate agent on your side – but selecting such an agent without the benefit of local friends and family members who can weigh in with their own experiences can be a challenge. Read on to learn more about some of the factors you'll want to keep in mind when selecting a real estate agent for your out of state purchase, as well as how you can make the process of transacting real estate from states away as simple and streamlined as possible. 

What should you consider when selecting a real estate agent from out of state? 

Your first step will involve simply garnering a list of available and licensed real estate agents in your prospective area. Many state licensing boards will maintain a list of all licensed agents, while similar lists can also be found on a number of national real estate websites. 

There are a few important steps that are often skipped when enlisting a local real estate agent, particularly someone with whom several friends or acquaintances have first-hand experience. Before signing a representation contract with an out-of-state agent, you'll want to research his or her qualifications and sale history, as well as any disciplinary history or license revocations kept on file by the issuing state's real estate licensing board. 

For example, you may find that an agent who is virtually perfect on paper has a documented history of refusing to return client phone calls or that an agent who advertises his or her expertise in a certain type or price point has actually only closed a few sales in this area. Because you're relying on your real estate agent to be the "eyes and ears" on the ground to help you determine whether to purchase (or pass on) a specific home, establishing a relationship of trust is key. 

What else should you keep in mind when purchasing a home from out of state?  

Even if you fully trust your real estate agent's judgment on a specific home, it can often be worthwhile to make a short trip – even just a day or two – to check the property out in person before submitting your best and final offer. The factors that may cause you to fall in love with a home (or feel that a home just isn't quite right for you) are often hard to communicate and sometimes rely on only a gut instinct. Seeing your new home in person can let you know, without a doubt, you've made the right decision.