When buying or selling a home, choosing the right realtor can make all the difference in your experience and success. A great realtor isn’t just someone who knows the market—they’re also a trusted advisor who will guide you through the process. To find the perfect fit, ask these 10 essential questions before hiring a realtor.
1. How Long Have You Been in Real Estate?
Experience matters. A seasoned realtor will have a better understanding of market trends, pricing strategies, and how to handle unexpected challenges.
What to Look For:
Someone with at least a few years of experience or a proven track record of successful transactions in your area.
2. Do You Specialize in Buying, Selling, or Both?
Some realtors specialize in helping buyers, while others focus on sellers. Many work with both, but it’s good to understand their strengths.
Why It Matters:
A seller’s agent should excel at marketing and negotiating, while a buyer’s agent should be skilled at finding homes and advocating for your needs.
3. Are You Familiar with This Neighborhood?
Local expertise is invaluable when buying or selling a home. A realtor who knows the area can provide insights into schools, amenities, market trends, and more.
What to Look For:
Someone who knows your neighborhood inside and out, including recent sales and upcoming developments.
4. What’s Your Marketing Strategy? (For Sellers)
If you’re selling your home, ask how the realtor plans to market your property. This includes listing it online, hosting open houses, and leveraging social media.
What to Look For:
A comprehensive marketing plan that includes professional photography, virtual tours, and a strong online presence.
5. How Will You Help Me Find the Right Home? (For Buyers)
Ask about their approach to helping you find homes that meet your criteria and how they handle competing offers in a hot market.
What to Look For:
A proactive agent who listens to your needs and keeps you informed about new listings as soon as they hit the market.
6. How Do You Communicate with Clients?
Communication is key during a real estate transaction. Find out how often they’ll update you and their preferred methods (phone, email, text, etc.).
Why It Matters:
You want someone who’s responsive and aligns with your communication preferences.
7. Can You Provide References from Past Clients?
A reputable realtor should have no problem providing testimonials or references from previous clients.
What to Look For:
Positive feedback that highlights their professionalism, negotiation skills, and ability to handle challenges.
8. How Many Clients Are You Currently Working With?
While a busy agent can indicate success, you don’t want someone so overloaded that they can’t give you the attention you deserve.
What to Look For:
Someone with a manageable workload who assures you’ll be a priority.
9. What Are Your Fees or Commission Rates?
Understanding how your realtor gets paid is essential. Most work on commission, typically 5–6% of the sale price, split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents.
What to Ask:
- Are there additional fees I should be aware of?
- How is the commission structured?
10. What Sets You Apart from Other Realtors?
This open-ended question allows the realtor to highlight their unique skills, experience, or approach.
What to Look For:
A confident answer that demonstrates their expertise, dedication, and how they’ll go above and beyond for you.
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Instincts
Beyond their answers, pay attention to how the realtor makes you feel. Are they approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely interested in helping you? A great working relationship is built on trust and communication.
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right realtor is one of the most important steps in your real estate journey. By asking these 10 questions, you’ll gain a clear understanding of their experience, approach, and whether they’re the right fit for your needs.
Ready to get started? Reach out today, and let’s make your real estate goals a reality!