Essential Questions to Evaluate a Real Estate Agent
When you are preparing to buy or sell a home, choosing the right realtor can make all the difference in your experience and outcome. A skilled realtor brings more than just a license—they offer local knowledge, negotiation expertise, and a network of trusted professionals.
However, not all realtors are created equal, and asking the right questions during your interview can help you find the best fit for your needs. Start by asking about their experience in your specific neighborhood. Local market trends vary significantly, so you want someone who understands the nuances of the area where you are looking to buy or sell. Find out their tenure in the exact neighborhood you’re targeting and whether they have a track record of successful transactions there.
Next, find out how many clients they are currently representing. If they’re juggling too many listings, your case could get lost in the shuffle, while someone with too few might lack experience or market presence. Ask for their average number of transactions per year and whether they work alone or with a team. When part of a team, identify your primary point of contact and their specific duties.
Communication is key, so ask how they prefer to communicate and how quickly they typically respond to calls or messages. Do they rely on WhatsApp, email, or traditional phone contact? Are they available on weekends or after work hours when many people are free? Many top agents offer evening and weekend availability for busy clients.
It is also important to understand their marketing strategy if you are selling. Show me how you’ve successfully advertised homes similar to yours. Did they use professional photography, virtual tours, social media, or open houses? Were staging, video walkthroughs, and MLS syndication part of their approach? Request to see statistics on days on market and sale price compared to list price for their recent sales. You deserve concrete metrics, not vague assurances.
If you are buying, ask how they find properties that match your criteria. Can they alert you to homes before they hit the public market? How do they filter out unsuitable homes to save you time? Do they use AI tools or personal filters to narrow options?
Ask about their approach to negotiations. Do they counter aggressively, patiently, or strategically? Do they have a clear strategy or do they rely on gut feeling? The best agents combine intuition with market analytics.
Request references from past clients, and if possible, reach out to them to get an honest perspective on the realtor’s professionalism, reliability, and communication style. Real insight comes from speaking to people who actually worked with them. Also, clarify how they are compensated. Commission is standard, but the rate and split matter and whether there are any additional fees you might encounter.
Inquire about their continuing education and certifications. Look for professionals who’ve earned industry-recognized designations beyond their basic license. Ask if First-time home seller Peterborough stay updated on changes in lending laws, tax implications, or housing regulations. Are they members of professional associations that mandate ongoing education?
Finally, trust your instincts. If you sense discomfort, pressure, or dishonesty, don’t ignore your gut. The right realtor will listen to your goals, answer your questions thoroughly, and make you feel confident and respected throughout the process. The best deals come from choosing an agent who values your needs as much as their commission.