10 Questions to Ask Your Listing Agent
1) Are you a real estate agent or a Realtor®?
Real estate agents are not always Realtors®. Realtors® are members of the National Association of Realtors®. Realtors® are pledged to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
2) Are you a full time or part time agent?
It is important for your agent to respond quickly to customer inquiries about your home via email and cell phone. Part-time agents can be skilled marketers, but they have other commitments that can limit their responsiveness.
3) Is your company a full service brokerage?
One stop shopping is a great way to save time, and some full service brokerages offer discounts to their clients.
4.) How do you use technology in your business?
This is very important in this day and age. Approximately 80% of buyers start their home search online. Google the name of the agent. Do they have a strong internet presence? Do they know how to type, text, IM with younger clients? Do they have their own personal website?
5.) What are the average days on market right now for this area?
This will give you a better idea on the time frame involved in the selling process.
6.) Is there anything I could do to make this house sell faster?
It's always best to work as a team with your agent. Depending on finances, there are usually some things you could do to enhance the home.
7.) What type of marketing will you do?
There are many different ways to market a home. A sign in the front yard is not enough.
8.) How accessible are you?
You'll want to know what hours the agent can be reached at home, as well as the office and cell phone, and how often the agent checks messages. These issues are not only important to you, they're important to potential buyers and their agents.
9.) Has a client ever filed a complaint against you?
If you're uncomfortable asking, just check with the state licensing board.
10.) The main question you should ask yourself at the end of your meeting is "Would I feel comfortable using this person?"
Comments(4)