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10 Critical Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Realtor
Your guide to a successful home sale.
When selecting a real estate agent to sell your most valuable asset, not all agents are created equal. To ensure you're making the best choice, here are 10 crucial questions every homeowner should ask before signing with a realtor:
Table of Contents
Are You Full Time or Part Time?
Your home sale is a significant financial transaction that deserves a dedicated professional. A full-time realtor demonstrates commitment, has more time to market your property, and can respond quickly to potential buyers and market opportunities.
What is Your List to Sold Price Ratio?
This metric reveals an agent's ability to price homes accurately and negotiate effectively. A high list-to-sold price ratio indicates the agent can maximize your home's value while attracting serious buyers.
What's Your Plan to Get My Home Sold?
A top-tier realtor should have a comprehensive marketing and pricing strategy. This includes professional photography, targeted online and offline marketing, strategic pricing, and a network of potential buyers and other real estate professionals.
How Will You Keep Me Updated Throughout the Process?
Communication is key. Your ideal agent should outline a clear communication plan – whether through weekly emails, text updates, phone calls, or a combination – ensuring you're never left in the dark about your home's sales progress.
How Will I Know if What You're Doing is Working?
Transparency matters. A professional realtor will provide regular reports on showings, online views, buyer feedback, and marketing reach, giving you concrete evidence of their efforts.
What Happens if You Fail to Do What You Say You'll Do?
Look for an agent who stands behind their commitments. A confident professional will be willing to discuss potential contingencies and accountability measures if they don't meet the agreed-upon goals.
How Will You Ensure Only the Right Buyers Walk Through My Home?
Screening potential buyers is crucial. Your agent should have a strategy for vetting buyers, verifying financial capabilities, and scheduling only serious, motivated viewings that respect your time and privacy.
How Do You Get Paid?
Most realtors work on a commission basis, typically a percentage of the home's final selling price. Understanding the fee structure upfront prevents any surprises and ensures alignment of interests. Your realtor should be able to effectively communicate why they are worth the commission they charge, and how they use their compensation to get you the most money in your pocket possible, creating a win-win scenario.
What is Your Success Rate?
Ask for specific numbers. A reputable agent will be transparent about their track record, including average days on market, percentage of listings sold, and client satisfaction rates.
What is Your Negotiation Strategy with Buyers?
Negotiation can make or break a deal. Your realtor should articulate a strategic approach that protects your interests, understands market conditions, and knows when to stand firm or be flexible.
Ready to Sell Your Home with Confidence?
Don't leave your biggest asset to chance. I'm committed to providing transparent, results-driven service that puts your needs first. Call me today for a free, no-obligation consultation and let's discuss how we can successfully sell your home.
Here to serve,
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P.S. Thinking of selling? I offer a complimentary home valuation and personalized marketing strategy. Give me a call to schedule your consultation now!
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