Questions to ask when selecting a Real Estate Sales Agent

Choosing the right real estate sales agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying or selling a home. The right agent can save you time, reduce stress, maximize your financial outcome, and guide you through every step with confidence.

The wrong agent can cost you money, create delays, and make the entire experience overwhelming.
Before you commit, here are the essential questions every buyer or seller should ask..

01

How long have you been doing Real Estate Sales?

As is the case with most professionals, experience is no guarantee of skill. However, a lot of what an agent learns is done hands-on, in the field.

  • Years in the industry
  • Specializations (buyers, sellers, luxury, relocation)
  • Knowledge of your specific area

02

How many days does it take to sell a Home?

There is a strong correlation between opening asking price and overall days on the market.

Your agent should be able to clearly and thoroughly explain this.

03

How will you keep me informed about the progress of my transaction?

There should be a question coming back at you in the form of how you would like that communication.

  • How often you’d like updates.
    • Weekly
    • When “something happens”
  • How you’d like that information.
    • Emails
    • Calls
    • Texts

04

What is your Marketing Strategy?

At a minimum elements should include, basic staging/de-cluttering, professional photography, social media promotion, and listing on the MLS.

05

What was the toughest Residential Real Estate Deal you closed? Why?

This will help you get to know your agent and how they work.

06

Are you a Full-Time Residential Real Estate Sales Agent?

Full Time Agents are usually able to provide a higher level of service than part-time agents. If real estate is their part time job, you’ll likely get part-time effort.

07

How will you determine a Listing Price?

Setting the right opening asking price is critical for a successful sale. Your Agent should provide you with a detailed comparative market analysis (CMA) to support their recommendation.

08

How will you handle showings?

This should result in some questions for you. Along the lines of, “How would you like them handled”?

09

How should I prepare my home for showings?

Your agent should be able to guide you through preparation, staging, de-cluttering, and minor repairs to enhance appeal to buyers.

10

What are your fees and commission rates?

Real Estate Commissions are all negotiable. Some agents charge a flat fee to simply enter the property in the MLS.

11

What is the length of the Listing Contract?

Make sure the listing contract aligns with your goals. (A red flag in this area might be a 2 year Listing Agreement.)

12

Can I cancel the listing agreement if I am not satisfied?

Understanding terms and expectations will give you peace of mind; but ultimately, selecting a good agent from the start is a best practice in this area.

13

How many clients are you currently working with?

This helps you understand whether the agent has the time and attention to dedicate to your transaction.

14

What is your negotiation strategy?

Buying or Selling a home involves serious money. A skilled negotiator can mean (literally) thousands more in your pocket.

  • Ability to explain contracts clearly
  • Opportunities for winning outcomes

15

Why should I choose you over other realtors?

This question lets the agent highlight their strengths, and helps you confirm whether they’re a good fit for your personality, goals, and expectations.

  • Confidence without arrogance
  • Local knowledge
  • Clear value
  • Genuine care for your success

We would love to share our answers to these and other questions you may have.
Contact us today!

These questions are designed to help you make an informed decision when selecting a Real Estate Sales Agent – be it our team, or someone else.
(But certainly, we’d love the opportunity to serve you!)

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