A good real estate agent is invaluable during the home buying or selling process. Here are some questions to ask to ensure you’re working with the right person:
General Questions:
- How long have you been a real estate agent in this area?
- How many homes have you sold/helped buyers purchase in the past year?
- What is your commission structure?
- What is your availability like? How quickly do you typically respond to calls and emails?
- Can you provide references from previous clients?
Buying a Home:
- What is the current market like in this area? Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market?
- What is the average home price in my desired neighborhood?
- What should I expect to pay in closing costs?
- How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage?
- What are the common pitfalls to avoid when buying a home?
- How do you handle multiple offers on a home?
- What is your negotiation strategy?
Selling a Home:
- How much is my home worth?
- What improvements can I make to increase my home’s value?
- What is your marketing plan to sell my home?
- How do you handle lowball offers?
- What can I expect the closing process to be like?
- What is your fee structure?
Additional Questions:
- Can you recommend a good mortgage lender?
- Do you have experience with specific property types (e.g., condos, townhouses, single-family homes)?
- How do you stay updated on market trends and regulations?
- What is your communication style?
- What is your availability for showings and open houses?
Remember, a good real estate agent will be patient, knowledgeable, and willing to answer all of your questions. Trust your gut and choose someone you feel comfortable working with.
Would you like to focus on buying or selling a home? I can provide more specific questions.