Many sellers interview multiple real estate agents before choosing one. And, just as you are sizing up a potential agent for a good fit, rest assured that they are evaluating you as well. Be wary of agents who don’t ask many questions and/or who fail to thoroughly explore your expectations and aspirations for your property.
This three-part series presents questions you should ask before you make that final decision on a real estate agent, a person you will partner with for the next few months.
How long have you been in business? It makes sense that the longer a person is in a business, the more experience they have and the better equipped they are to successfully negotiate your sale. Also be sure to ask if the agent works full-time in real estate; a part-time agent may provide part-time service. And when selling, in many cases, the estate’s most expensive asset, you deserve full-time, focused help.
What is your average list-price-to-sales-price ratio? A competent listing agent will hold a track record for negotiating sales prices that are very close to list prices, typically between 95 and 100%.
Will you provide references? Everybody has references. Even a novice agent will have references from previous employers. Follow these guidelines:
- Ask to see written references (the more recent, the better)
- Ask if any of the agent’s references are related to him or her
- Request permission to contact references for additional information
