Interviewing Agents? Remember These 5 Essential Questions

Home Valuation | Search the MLS

 When you’re interviewing agents, there are a few key questions you should be asking.

There are really hundreds of things you could ask, but today I’m going to boil it down to just a few.

First of all, ask your agent if they are full-time, or if what they do is just a hobby. You’d be surprised how many hobbyists or part-time agents are out there selling just a few homes a year. With so little experience, you can’t expect them to have the same expertise as someone who’s full-time.

Also remember to ask how many transactions they’ve closed in the last 12 months. This will really verify that they are truly full-time. 

Next, ask about their marketing plan. During your interview, you should get a good idea of the kinds of professional tools and strategies they have. Whether that means they create YouTube videos, are connected to professional photographers, or use search engine optimization to boost traffic to your listing, it is important to understand what an agent would be able to bring to the table for you.

If you’re a buyer, your agent needs to be able to set a roadmap for you. What can your agent do to take you from finding a home to actually navigating the steps from contract to closing? The No. 1 issue people tend to have with their Realtor is a lack of communication.

"It’s important to understand what an agent would be able to bring to the table for you."

This brings us to our third question, which is: How will they communicate with you?

Fourth, ask if your agent is an expert in your specific area. Unless an agent has a personal tie to where you’re buying or selling, they aren’t going to understand how to best cater to your wants and needs. Only a truly local agent will have extensive knowledge of the school systems, neighborhoods, and more.

The fifth question you should ask is about whether they have a support staff. When you are out buying a home, you’ll come to realize how much time the process actually takes. Agents have a lot to deal with behind the scenes, as well. From reviewing settlements, dealing with the title company, and corresponding with the seller’s agent, your agent is very busy.

If your agent doesn’t have a support staff, this is probably a red flag that they don’t do enough business to warrant getting help.

If you have any other questions or would like more information, feel free to give me a call or send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Post a Comment