What questions should I ask an agent I'm interviewing? Today I ran across a handout with questions a buyer should ask an agent they're considering hiring. I think they're good questions. Here is how I would answer them:
What are the most important skills and resources you offer your clients:
I think there are a ton of good real estate agents out there. And I think the best of us all share the common qualities of integrity, personability and professionalism. What might distinguish me from my competitors is my enthusiasm, creativity and length of time in the business. I have a knack for putting buyers at ease. I'm known for my forthrightness and honesty, and won't hesitate to call out the pluses and minuses of any home you're considering. And I've been selling in San Francisco since 1986, so I understand many of our City's special peculiarities when it comes to buying, selling, owning and living here.
What is your area of expertise:
I always think this is a funny question, because so many agents like to say they cover all KINDS of properties in all KINDS of neighborhoods. Me? I'd say that my track record is more buyers than sellers and I sell more condos than anything else. When I do have the opportunity to work with a buyer or seller in an area I don't know like the back of my hand, I'll pull in an associate who specializes in the neighborhood.
Tell me about the last deal or two you closed:
The last one was a condo on Delmar in the Haight Ashbury Distirct. I've mentioned this one on my blog in the past. I loved this transaction because the buyer, a young single woman, is completely over the moon about buying her first home. It's fun to have a client who's so excited about the result. The next closing I have coming up is our listing on Prescott in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood. This seller enjoyed living here, but ultimately had a family and moved to Italy. We managed this transaction long distance and it's gone spookily well. We even think the buyer and seller will become fast friends after the transaction's close.
Why are you with Paragon Real Estate Group?
Because I have the privilege of working with a group of agents who have an incredibly high level of productivity and professionalism. We have very few prima donnas in our company. Instead we value an environment of respect where we are all there to help each other do our best. We are also managed by our company's owners, who are personally invested in seeing us succeed.
Is this your only career?
Pretty much. I was a glorified secretary right out of college, but got my license pretty quick and started work right after my 24th birthday. Right around the Millennium I took some time off to handle some family matters. During that time, I managed my little portfolio of real estate properties and did some marketing consulting with local real estate companies and agents. I couldn't stay away from selling, though. The work is too rewarding and fun.
References! References! References! Easy-- just visit my listings website and check out the "Horn Toots" section.
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