12 important questions to ask a Realtor before you choose them!

Too often, many people make thier decision based on the idea that all real estate agents are basically the same. They sign with the first agent to come along, only to realize too late that they should have shopped around. The following questions are designed to help you avoid that mistake by equipping you with what to look for in selecting your agent.  Start by asking friends, acquaintances and/or family for the names of agents they know. A personal referral is the absolute BEST manner in which to select your Professional Real Estate Agent. Once you have compiled a list of names referred to you based upon a great experience, use this guide to help you determine which agent is the best for YOU.

Question 1 Can you share some information about yourself?

Look for professionalism and consistency.

Question 2  How do you approach your work?

Look for a business person that has a strategy and Team to work with.

Question 3  How many homes have you closed in the past year?

Look for an agent who is active in your area and at the top of their industry. Look for the best. Why settle for less than that?

Question 4  What is the dollar volume of homes you have sold in the last year?

Beware of agents who use their company status vs. their own.

Question 5  How long have you been in business?

Longevity in the industry does not always mean success. However, look for an agent that has been in the business at a minimum of three years. The fall-out ratio for agents in the business less than 3 years is over 80%.

Question 6   Do you have a personal assistant or other support staff working for you?

Most top agents employ (out of their own pocket) an assistant or staff. It is imperative that the agent have support in order to take care of the details of the transaction. How can your agent be actively showing homes to clients and working on the details of your closing at the same time? Things will fall through the cracks and that could cause critical problems with your transaction. By employing someone to handle the small details, he or she can devote more time to serving your needs.

Question 7  What will you do keep me informed?

Do you want daily or weekly reports from your agent? Will the agent be able to meet these expectations? Determine how much communication you want, then find an agent who will give you the attention and time you deserve.

Question 8   Can you provide me with further resources I may need?

The best agents have built strong relationships with their “Teams” and can often get expedient service or be able to “cash in a favor” for your transaction should a crunch or problem arise.

Question 9  Can you give me some references from other clients you have worked with?

Don’t be afraid to ask for references. An agent who provides raving fan service and is proud of their work will be happy to provide references.

Question 10  What is the best way for me to get in touch with you?

You should know exactly how to get through to your agent or assistant.

Question 11  What awards or accolades have you received in the past couple of years?

Make sure that your agent is a professional and is well regarded and at the top of the industry. They will be more knowledgeable and will be able to best represent your interests based on experience and reputation.

Question 12  How will you represent my best interests?

Absolutely do not hire someone that you don’t believe will represent YOUR best interests at all time. Have your agent give you examples of how they represent their client. Remember that finding the home is the easy part, true representation begins at contract stage with negotiation strategies and closing strategies. Ask around for horror stories and you will find that they don’t involve the home search BUT after the contract was signed!