Interviewing a REALTOR®

When you’re selling your home, choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important parts of the process. A great real estate agent can help you sell your home quickly, profitably, and with as little stress as possible—while a not-so-great agent can make the process longer and more frustrating than it needs 

But how, exactly, do you evaluate potential agents and choose the right one? The best way to do that is by asking the right questions. Here are the top 7 questions to ask real estate agents when interviewing them:

  1. How many houses have you sold? Each real estate deal is unique, so the more transactions your realtor has closed, the more likely he can help you navigate through any unforeseen challenges that may arise. This is more important than the number of years they’ve been a realtor. In this case experience supersedes duration.
  2. How did you determine the recommended list price? It’s not uncommon for a homeowner to have their own opinion on how much their house should be listed for, and it can often differ from the agent’s recommendation. A solid agent has considerable experience and insight into market values, and will be happy to explain in depth as to how they arrived at their recommendation.
  3. What is your marketing plan? There are many ways to market a house. While all agents may do similar things, it’s important to know about any specific or different approaches the agent you are interviewing may employ to sell your house fast and for the most money.
  4. How do you manage all of the realtor and buyer inquiries you receive from marketing my home? An expert agent has a habitual routine to follow up with everything on a daily basis. (Many say they do, so be sure to check their references.)
  5. What systems do you have in place to ensure nothing falls through the cracks once I have an accepted contract on my home? An important part of your realtor's job involves following up with buyers, realtors, lenders, title companies and inspectors, just to name a few. If just one detail gets missed or overlooked it could possibly cost you the sale of your property.
  6. How often can I expect to hear from you? One of the biggest complaints from the public is their realtor is hard to reach and doesn't return phone calls. An organized, professional realtor should communicate with you on a regular basis and return your phone calls in a timely manner.
  7. Can I have some references? Get a least 3. You want to make sure that other people can attest to the quality of your realtor's work!