Tips for Finding a Real Estate Agent

We've put together a list of the most important interview questions for you to ask your real estate agent to help you find your dream home.

How long have you been in business? While experience is a significant value proposition, a newly licensed agent can be as effective, given access to qualified mentors and quality training. 

Why are you a better choice than the other local agents? Most buyers say that the qualities that made a positive difference include honesty, good communication, friendliness, excellent negotiator, and being available by phone and email.

Could you provide references? Even new agents should have references from previous employers.

What's your average list-price-to-sales-price ratio? The agent's average ratio hints about their skill. A good buyer's agent should be able to negotiate a lower sales price than the list price for consumers. However, a skilled listing agent should have a track record of negotiating sales prices very close to list prices.

What is your plan to find me the right home and price? Ask your agent how they will go about searching for your new home, how many homes they plan on showing you, and how multiple offers are handled.

How well are you connected to other professionals? Ask your agent about who they work with and why they chose these professionals. They should supply you with a list of vendors such as home inspectors and title companies.

What are their service fees? Real estate fees typically charge a commission from 1% to 4%. However, their fees are negotiable.

What kind of guarantee do you offer? What is their company policy about canceled agreements? Ask whether they've ever had any canceled agreements too.