The 5 Questions Guide to Hiring The Perfect Agent

If you are still wondering if you need to hire an agent or not to represent you, we recommend reading The Realtor Advantage. 

Once you’ve selected the agents to interview, be prepared to jot down notes so you can review what each agent has to offer.  Asking the right questions is crucial to being able to interview all on a level playing field! Below are the most critical questions to ask.

1. How many years have you been a real estate agent in this area and about how many transactions have you managed?

While the well-used axiom in real estate is ‘location, location, location’ the analogy to hiring a Realtor should be ‘experience, experience, experience.’ That’s why this is the first question that should be asked.

2. What additional certifications or credentials have you earned?

The number and variety of the certifications or credentials an agent has, is both a reflection on their knowledge of the real estate industry and their commitment to their profession. Not only does their knowledge benefit you as a client it also helps to make your transaction smoother.

3. How many 5 Star Reviews do you have from past clients?

The number of 5 Star Reviews demonstrates an agents’ dedication to serving their clients’ needs and how well they can translate the clients’ goals into a successful and smooth closing.

4. Explain your process for finding us a home or marketing our current home?

An experienced Realtor knows that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ process for assisting a buyer or marketing a home. The answer should provide sufficient detail that you can determine how well the agent knows the business and has the knowledge and skills to successfully meet your goals and needs.

5. How long have you lived and sold real estate in the area?

Whether you’re looking to buy in a specific neighborhood or sell your home, having an agent who has lived in the area all their life, is much more knowledgeable and can help you make informed decisions. The types of homes and trends that are in demand can be different from one city or community to the next. An agent with experience selling real estate in your market area will know how much homes are selling for, as well as additional information, like the safety of the community and any upcoming development plans. 

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BONUS QUESTION: How will you keep in contact with us during the buying or selling process, and how often?

There is nothing worse than being in the dark with such an important life change. It’s best if your agent’s preferred method of communication aligns with your own. You should ask how often you two will be touching base. A fast-moving market may require communication a few times a day or at the least in a normal market once a week.

Now that we've got your interview questions lined up, you'll want to select the agents you want to interview and schedule time to meet with each one individually. Here's how we can help you. You may select them however you choose but referrals and recommendations from friends, relatives and co-workers can help you to begin your list. Then, you can begin to finalize your list to three or four based on their website, social media presence and experience.

Once you’ve selected the agents to interview, set up a time to meet each one individually. Don’t be put off thinking this is too much like a ‘job interview’ – that’s exactly what this is!

For a complete list of questions to ask during your interviews we have available A Guide To Hiring The Right Real Estate Agent you can request below.

Whether you are a typical buyer or seller or have special needs and concerns to your real estate situation (ex. senior, probate, or divorce), Geni offers a great deal of advice that will help you choose the right Realtor for you in all six of her books…plus common mistakes made by home buyers and sellers.