Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent Before Selecting Them
Selecting a Realtor can be a tricky process - there are lots of agents out there that will sell you the world and then won’t deliver. On the flip side, there are plenty of agents that do an incredible job and you would’ve never expected it.
As a Realtor in Atlanta, I want to help educate people about what they should ask a potential agent before signing an agreement with them:
Are you working as a Realtor full-time or part-time?
There are a lot of Real Estate Agents out there who are working as an agent part-time, not full-time. You want to be sure that the agent you select is working in this role full-time.
What’s your availability like for working with me around my schedule?
If you’re working in a traditional 9-5 job, you want to be sure that the Realtor you’re working with is available in the evenings and on the weekends.
Can you provide me with a reference of a client you’ve worked with in the past?
It seems simple, but a lot of people never ask this! THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION!!!! DO NOT PASS GO OR COLLECT $200 WITHOUT ASKING THIS.
Do you have a strong network of relationships with other agents?
One of the most important things when selecting an agent is considering their network. This is how they will learn about new listings that are coming soon and/or be able to get the word out that your home is for sale. Selecting a Realtor that is plugged in can increase foot traffic in your listing or keep you in the loop as you search for your home.
How often do you know about coming soon (or quiet) listings before they hit the market?
Can you describe to me your marketing skills (most important for listings, but also important for buyers)?
If we are not available to meet with contractors, vendors, home inspections, etc. done during the due diligence period (or if you’re selling your home, this would be as you get prepared to list), would you be available to meet these people on our behalf?
Where do you live?
This ^^ isn’t as important on the buying side, since technology has allowed us to become experts on any neighborhood. But, on the listing side you want someone who doesn’t have to drive from Peachtree City to Peachtree Hills every time you have a prospective buyer coming for a showing.
If I do decide to use you as my Realtor and I decided that during the term that I want to terminate our agreement, would you hold me to the length of the term?
Asking questions like these will help you understand if the Realtor you’re interviewing will fit your needs. But, most importantly, you want to be sure that the Realtor you select is someone that you trust and who you know will work hard for you. If you’re ready to buy or sell your home, get in touch and we can go over how I work with my clients!