Choosing the Right Realtor: Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make in your lifetime. Having the right realtor by your side can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth, successful transaction. But how do you choose the right professional to represent you? It starts with asking the right questions. This guide will help you understand what to look for in a realtor and the essential questions to ask to ensure you're making an informed decision. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an experienced seller, or somewhere in between, these insights will help you find a realtor who understands your needs, knows the local market, and has the expertise to guide you through the process.

 Experience and Expertise:

1. How long have you been a realtor?

2. How many transactions have you completed in the past year?

3. Do you have experience with buyers/sellers in my price range and desired area?

4. Are you a full-time or part-time realtor?

Market Knowledge:

1. How well do you know the local market?

2. Can you provide recent market data and trends for my area?

3. What strategies do you use to stay updated on the market?

Services and Support:

1. What services do you provide beyond the basics?

2. Do you work alone or with a team?

3. How will you help me prepare my home for sale (if selling)?

Communication and Availability:

1. How will you communicate with me and how often?

2. What is your preferred method of communication (phone, email, text)?

3. Are you available on evenings and weekends?

4. How quickly do you typically respond to messages?

Marketing and Negotiation:

1. What is your marketing strategy for selling homes?

2. Can you provide examples of your marketing materials and online listings?

3. How do you handle negotiations? Can you provide examples of how you’ve negotiated successfully in the past?

Fees and Contract:

1. What are your commission fees? Are they negotiable?

2. Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?

3. Can you explain the terms of the contract and the duration?

4. What happens if I’m not satisfied with your service? Can I cancel the contract?

Client References:

1. Can you provide references from recent clients?

2. Can I see reviews or testimonials from past clients?

3. Have you had any complaints filed against you with the local real estate board or licensing authority?

Personal Fit:

1. What do you think sets you apart from other realtors?

2. How do you handle challenges or difficult situations that may arise during the buying/selling process?

These questions will help you assess the realtor's qualifications, communication style, and overall fit for your needs.

The Complete Mortgage Team works with agents all over the country and can help partner you with the right one for your needs!