How to Interview a Real Estate Agent Before You Hire
Buying a home is a BIG deal. It’s probably the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. You want to get it right. One of the most important parts of the process is choosing the right real estate agent. But how do you know who’s good and who’s just…okay?
The Problem: Most People Choose Agents Based on Gut Feeling (and That's a Mistake!)
Think about it. How do most people pick a real estate agent? Maybe they use the one their friend used. Or maybe they pick the person who seems the friendliest. These things matter, but they shouldn't be the only things you think about.
Picking an agent based only on a good feeling is like choosing a doctor because you like their waiting room magazines. You need to dig deeper. You need to know if they are good at their job.
Many people don't ask the tough questions. They don't check the agent's track record. They don't understand what a great agent can really do for them. And that can cost them time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
The Explanation: 7 Questions That Separate Great Agents From Average Ones
Here are 7 questions to ask a real estate agent before you hire them. These questions will help you see who really knows their stuff.
1. "How many homes have you actually sold in this neighborhood in the last year?"
Don't just accept a general answer like "a few." You want a number. Let’s say you’re looking in the Willow Creek neighborhood. A great agent can tell you, "I've sold 6 homes in Willow Creek in the last year. Two on Oak Street, one on Maple Ave, and three on Pine Lane." They should be able to quickly recall specific examples.
Why this matters: An agent who knows the neighborhood inside and out will have a better idea of pricing, trends, and what buyers are looking for.
2. "Can you show me verified sales data for the homes you've sold? What was the average sale price compared to the original listing price?"
This is where you see how good they are at getting the best price for their clients. A great agent will readily provide this information. They might say, "On average, my homes sell for 98% of the original listing price. Here are the real transaction records to prove it."
Why this matters: If an agent's homes consistently sell below the asking price, that's a red flag. You want someone who can negotiate effectively.
3. "What's your marketing plan for my home? Be specific."
Don't accept vague answers like "I'll put it on the internet." A great agent will have a detailed plan. They might say, "I'll hire a professional photographer to take high-quality photos. I'll create a virtual tour. I'll advertise on social media. I'll also send out postcards to people in the surrounding area. I also use targeted ads to reach specific buyers who are looking for homes like yours."
Why this matters: Good marketing gets more eyes on your home, which can lead to a faster sale and a better price.
4. "How will you communicate with me during the process? How often?"
Communication is key! You want an agent who will keep you in the loop. A great agent will say something like, "I'll call you every Monday with an update. I'm also available by text and email. You can expect a response from me within a few hours."
Why this matters: You don't want to be left in the dark. Clear and frequent communication will reduce stress and keep you informed.
5. "What happens if I'm not happy with your services? Can I cancel our agreement?"
This is a tough question, but it's important to ask. A confident agent will be upfront about their cancellation policy. They might say, "Our agreement is for six months, but if you're not happy with my service, we can discuss ending the agreement early. My goal is to make sure you're satisfied."
Why this matters: You want to know you're not locked into a bad relationship. A flexible cancellation policy shows the agent is confident in their abilities.
6. "Can you give me three references from past clients I can call?"
Hearing from other people who have worked with the agent is super valuable. Don’t just rely on testimonials on their website. You want to talk to real people.
Why this matters: References give you a chance to hear firsthand about the agent's strengths and weaknesses.
7. "What sets you apart from other agents?"
This question gives the agent a chance to sell themselves. Listen carefully to their answer. Do they focus on their experience? Their negotiating skills? Their marketing expertise?
Why this matters: This helps you understand their unique value and why they are the best choice for you. For example, an agent might say, "I have a background in interior design, so I can help you stage your home to appeal to buyers. I also have a strong network of contractors who can handle any necessary repairs."
Action Steps: Put Your Knowledge to Work!
- Make a list of potential agents. Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
- Do your research. Look at their websites and social media profiles.
- Call at least three agents and schedule interviews.
- Prepare your questions. Use the questions above as a starting point.
- Take notes during the interviews. Compare their answers and choose the agent who best meets your needs.
- Trust your gut, but back it up with facts. Don't just go with the friendliest agent. Choose the one who is most qualified and experienced.
How smover Helps
Finding the right neighborhood is just as important as finding the right agent. smover helps you explore neighborhoods based on your lifestyle and preferences. We provide information on schools, commute times, and local amenities, so you can find the perfect place to call home.
Now it's your turn!
What other questions do you think are important to ask a real estate agent before hiring them?