10 Things You Need to Know Before You Hire a Real Estate Agent

When it comes to buying or selling your home, not all real estate agents are created equal. Your agent can either save or cost you thousands of dollars, so it’s important to do your homework. Before you make any decisions, take a look at these 10 key questions you should ask to ensure you’re getting the best representation for your needs.

1. What Makes You Different from Other Agents? Why Should I List My Home with You?

Real estate has changed a lot over the past decade, and it’s more competitive than ever. Ask your agent about the unique marketing strategies and programs they offer. How will they make your home stand out? The right agent will have a plan to sell your home quickly, with minimal hassle, and for the highest possible price.

2. What Is Your Company’s Track Record and Reputation in the Market?

You’ve probably seen many agents tout their achievements, but what does it really mean for you? Ask how many homes they’ve sold recently, and get a feel for how active and successful they are in the current market. Agents who sell more homes have the experience, resources, and reputation to help you sell yours fast and for top dollar.

3. What Are Your Marketing Plans for My Home?

Find out how much the agent invests in advertising. Do they spend money on quality marketing to give your listing the exposure it needs? Ask about the types of media they use and how they decide which ones are most effective for your home. A strong marketing plan can make all the difference.

4. What Has Your Company Sold in My Area?

Ask the agent to show you a list of recent sales in your neighborhood. A knowledgeable agent will have a track record in your area and be able to provide insights into how homes are selling nearby. This helps set expectations and shows that the agent understands the local market.

5. Does Your Broker Control Your Advertising, or Do You?

If your agent’s brokerage controls the advertising, your listing may not get the attention it deserves. Your home could be competing for ad space with multiple other listings. An agent who controls their own advertising budget has more flexibility to promote your home effectively.

6. When Your Listings Sell, How Close Is the Selling Price to the Asking Price?

The Real Estate Board can provide information on how agents perform in terms of closing prices. Does this agent sell homes at or near the asking price? Knowing this will give you an idea of what you might expect for the sale price of your home.

7. On Average, How Long Does It Take for Your Listings to Sell?

Time is money. The longer your home sits on the market, the more likely you are to get a lower offer. Ask the agent about their average time to sell compared to the market average. A skilled agent will sell homes faster and more efficiently, saving you both time and stress.

8. How Many Buyers Are You Currently Working With?

An agent with a large pool of active buyers can create competition for your home, potentially driving the price up. Ask about their current buyers and how they plan to attract more. An experienced agent with a strong network can be a game-changer for selling your home quickly and for the best price.

9. Do You Have a Reference List of Clients I Can Contact?

Always ask for references. A good agent should be able to provide you with a list of past clients who can vouch for their performance. Reach out to a few of them to hear firsthand about their experience. It’s a great way to get a sense of the agent’s communication, professionalism, and results.

10. What Happens If I’m Not Happy with the Service? Can I Cancel My Listing Contract?

Be cautious of agents who lock you into lengthy listing agreements with tough penalties. If you're not satisfied with the agent’s performance, you should have the option to cancel without facing penalties. An agent who’s confident in their services will allow you to cancel if things aren’t going as promised.

These 10 questions are designed to help you evaluate the agents you're considering and ensure you're getting the best representation. Take your time to assess each agent’s answers carefully. After all, this is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make, and choosing the right agent can make all the difference.