Selecting an Agent: Questions Every Seller Should Ask

25
1
Sign In
to Rate & Comment

Choosing an agent can be confusing, especially when there are so many to choose from. Among questions about an agent's experience, local market knowledge credentials, cost and marketing plan, here are 13 questions to ask an agent before deciding he or she is the right one for you.

  • Do you work full-time or part-time as a real estate agent?

    Full-time work typically means more attention for you.

  • How many homes have you sold in my neighborhood?

    An agent who specializes in the area in which you are selling your home is preferable. This agent will be the most familiar with recent sales activity and will be able to recommend a good market price for your home.

  • How many other sellers are you representing now?

    The busiest agents often are the most efficient.

  • Will you handle all aspects of my transaction or will you delegate some tasks to a sales associate or administrative assistant?

    A knowledgeable assistant can be invaluable, but make sure you connect with your agent regularly.

  • How much can I expect to pay?

    Commissions are negotiable depending on what kind of listing arrangement you have with your agent.

  • At what price do you think my home can sell given the current market?

    This will allow the agent to display his knowledge of your market.

  • Can you give me a comparative market analysis (CMA) of recent sales in the area and homes currently on the market?

    This should contain listing and sales prices for recently sold homes as well as listing prices and the listing dates of homes currently for sale. It also should include detailed property descriptions (such as square footage and numbers of bedrooms and baths).

  • What does your marketing package contain in addition to a comparative market analysis?

    Listing presentations should also include a suggested asking price, information on the local housing market, advertising plans, a discussion of various listing agreements, and an analysis of sale proceeds at various price points and commission levels.

  • Can I list the house with you for 60 to 90 days?

    Most consumer experts agree that a three-month listing period, or less, is best. You can always renew the listing agreement at that time.

  • Is your license in good standing?

    You should check an agent's certification yourself with your state's Department of Real Estate. Many states provide this information online. For example, in California residents may check at http://www.dre.cahwnet.gov/licstats.htm

  • How many years of education and experience do you have?

    Experience and continuing education typically make for better agents.

  • Are you also a broker and/or a Realtor®?

    Brokers have more stringent licensing requirements and responsibilities. Realtors are voluntary members of the National Association of Realtors, a trade group.

  • Can you provide me with the names and phone numbers of past clients who have agreed to be references?

    Insights from past customers can help you learn more about an agent and give you a greater comfort level.

Interview Worksheet

Use this worksheet to compare agents and assist you in making your decision as to which agent to choose. Mark each box with a number from 1-10.

Fill this out to compare agents: Agent 1 Agent 2 Agent 3
Available via email / page / cell phone?
Located close to me? How far?
Uses the Internet to market listings?
Has good ideas for marketing my home?
Recommend inspection and mortgage companies?
Willing to work hard?
Professional Designations (NAR, CRS, etc.)
Number of homes sold / year or $ volume / year
Number of homes sold / $ volume in my ZIP code
Will work on a 60 or 90 day listing
Available days / nights / weekends?
Languages spoken?
Detailed / personalized Marketing Plan?
Will provide two to three references?
Other:
Other:

Reader Comments
Overall Article Rating:
25
1
A Yahoo! Contributor
Article Rating:
A bit simple. I have been part of 12 transactions over the years, (we moved a lot!) Busy agents might not have time for you. Ask how often you will hear from them. After every showing and weekly! Instead list with a Real Estate Co that does a lot of business in your area. Big companies can call more agents through the property, which means more buyers will see the home and faster. The internet has transformed Real Estate. Do you like the company's Web site? Prospective buyers often turn down a home just based on the photos these days. Will the photos be professionally taken? Do they have staging advice? You can have all kinds of credentials, but not represent your clients well. I have seen friendly "people pleasers" want to impress another agent, so they give away their clients bargaining position. And agents so good at manipulating others that they definitely were manipulating their own clients too! Find someone you can talk to easily and who listens! There are good agents!
Craig Grove, Realtor
Article Rating:
This is a helpful form. However, I think how you get along with your Realtor and gut feelings should also be considered. If I can every help you with any real estate related questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. craig.grove@century21.com
amri
Article Rating:
very good
Zed
Article Rating:
Very good!
Anand S
Article Rating:
Thanks a lot

Find a Top Local REALTOR®

sponsored by Homegain

  • Let top REALTORS® compete for your business.
  • Compare backgrounds, commission rates and more.
  • Agents do not see your contact information.
  • No obligation, no pressure.
Sellers Start Here Buyers Start Here

Recent REALTOR® Articles


Latest Real Estate Headlines

In the news:

Search

City & State or ZIP
to
Related Yahoo! Services:
Jobs - Personal Financial Advice
Some Yahoo! Real Estate information is provided by our trusted partners.
However, Yahoo! does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any third party content.