Eight questions you should ask your prospective real estate agent:

Here are eight questions I think you should ask an agent before signing a buyer's agency or listing agreement.

1. How long have you been in the business?

Your Real Estate agent's experience is VERY important. A new agent will learn a LOT their first year, and will continue to learn more with every transaction. Don't automatically choose against a newer agent - they typically bring a lot of energy to the transaction, and they will have LOTS of time for you. However, if you do decide to use a newer agent, make sure they have a great support system behind them.

2. Are you a Realtor?

Not all Real Estate agents are Realtors. Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors and must adhere to a strict code of ethics.

3. Do you hold any certifications?

There is an "alphabet soup" of advanced certifications that Real Estate agents can earn. While it doesn't automatically mean that they are a good agent, it does mean they are serious about their job.

4. Do you have a specialty?

Real Estate agents typically categorize themselves as either "commercial" or "residential" which are vastly different. And among Residential Real Estate agents, some agents will specialize in Buyers, Sellers, or Renters as some specialize in condos, first time buyers, high end properties, horse farms, investmednt properties, new construction or a certain geographical area etc.

 5. May I have the names/numbers of past customers?

Take the time to call some of the agent's past customers. Be candid with them, ask about the agents strengths and weaknesses as well as their communication and negotiating skills.   

6. Who is your Broker? May I call him/her?

Real Estate Agencies are moving towards the "mega-brokerage" mentality which means that many agents today have never met their Broker. If an agent doesn't have their Broker's cell phone number, find out who they will call if they run into questions.

7. How many sales did you complete last year?

A good agent will close several deals per calendar year. You want to make sure that the agent helping you through the largest purchase or sale of your life is an active and  producing agent.

8. Is this your full-time job? 

 An agent who practices real estate full-time, day in and day out, helps ensure that your best interests will be the priority.

There are plenty of terrific Realtors out there. A good Realtor can make the difference between a great transaction and a horrific one. If you do not find your Realtor through a trusted source, then do your homework. Interview several agents. ask them these questions, compare their marketing plans and their production records.

Good luck!

www.MaryCraneProperties.com