There are so many questions you can ask your agent but below are some very important, ones that I voluntarily discuss at all of my listing appointments.
1) How many years they have been in the business. This shouldn't be your determining factor, an agent that has been in the business 30 years doesn't make then a better agent. You want an agent that is tech savvy, invests in their education, understands the local laws and buying/selling process thoroughly, isn't so busy that you get handed off to someone else after they take the listing, and has the proper marketing skills.
2) How they plan to market your property outside the MLS. Get a clear understanding before you sign and hold them to it. There is so much more to marketing a property then just putting it on the local MLS. I can't tell you how many times I see seasoned agents putting bad angle, dark photos of a listing on the internet. Any picture can be enhanced with online tools. Remember, buyers are making their decision to even view the home by what they see online. Make sure they have descriptions that talk about the homes functionality so a buyer can feel the flow before even seeing it.
3) Ask them about their track record and success rate. How many homes have the help buy and sell in their career. Read past client testimonials to get a sense of how they work, look for a common thread. Avoid testimonials from their friends, you want real client testimonials.
4) Find out what taxes and fees you are responsible for, including the commission.
5) Be very clear on what you are signing. Make sure the agent goes through the contract slowly and explains each section so you have a clear understanding. Ask them about the process of terminating the contract, any repercussions? If so what are they?
6) How often they work with buyers. An agent that works with buyers understands how the buyers think. This can help you with getting the home ready to list. Have a pre-listing inspection done so you know what may come up.
7) Is this their full time job or are they doing it part-time. Part-time efforts get part time results.
8) How well they know the local market, trends, etc. You want to know how long they feel it will take to sell your home and what you should expect from the market. It is so very important for your agent to set this expectation up front.
You want an agent that is going to represent your property in the best, possible light and will always have your best interest in mind. They cannot properly represent you and a buyer for your property at the same time. If a buyer signs the required agency disclosure form acknowledging that your agent represents you then that is fine. Your agent will not be representing the buyer, just submitting their offer and any other requests that come in throughout the transaction. Be very clear with your agent about dual agency and how it can affect you the seller. After all, it is a relationship that you will be forming so be comfortable with your choice.
By Christopher Pagli - www.WestchesterCountyRealEstateMarket.com
Accredited Buyer Representative
Real Estate Associate Broker
William Raveis Legends Realty Group
914.332.6300 office
914.406.9023 cell
chris@legendsrealtygroup.net
mrwestchester.blogspot.com
linkedin.com/in/christopherpagli
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