HIRING A REALTOR
CHOOSING THE RIGHT AGENT
Selling a home is a significant decision, and choosing the right realtor to represent you can greatly impact the process and outcome. Here are some important questions to ask when interviewing realtors.
Experience and Qualifications:
1) How long have you been a realtor?
2) Not every agent is a REALTOR
REALTORS® are real estate
professionals who have chosen to join the National Association and abide by its
strict Code of Ethics. What sets them apart is that they must subscribe to the
Realtor Code of Ethics for membership, and this includes 17 separate articles
that contain various underlying Standards of Practice.
What does this mean to you?
It means that any REALTOR® with whom you work has voluntarily agreed to abide
by a Code of Ethics, based on professionalism and protection of the public. REALTORS®
are subject to disciplinary action and sanctions if they violate the duties
imposed by the Code of Ethics. For more information CLICK
HERE
Whereas, Real Estate Agents
are not a member of NAR and are not subject to additional requirements and they
cannot use the REALTORS® registered collective membership mark.
3) Have you worked in this specific area/neighborhood before?
4) Can you provide references from past clients?
Market Knowledge:
1) What is the current market condition in our area?
2) How do you determine the appropriate listing price for a
home?
3) Can you provide recent comparable sales data (comps) for
similar homes in the area?
Marketing Strategy:
1) How do you plan to market my home to potential buyers?
2) Do you utilize online marketing, social media, and
professional photography?
3) Will my home be listed on multiple listing services (MLS)?
Communication:
1) How frequently will you provide updates on the selling
process?
2) What methods of communication do you prefer (phone, email,
text, in-person)?
3) Do you have a team or assistant who will help manage
communication?
Fees and Commission:
1) What is your commission rate, and what does it cover?
2) Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
3) Are there options for negotiation regarding commission?
Negotiation Skills:
1) How do you handle negotiations with potential buyers and
their agents?
2) Can you provide examples of successful negotiations you've
handled in the past?
Availability:
1) How accessible are you? Are you a full-time agent or
part-time? Do you have another job?
2) Will you be the main point of contact, or will there be
others from your team involved?
Track Record:
1) Can you provide examples of recent homes you've sold in
the area?
2) What is your average time on market for homes you've sold?
Contract and Process:
1) Can you walk me through the typical selling process and
the steps involved?
2) What is your recommended timeline for listing, showings,
and closing?
Local Connections:
1) Do you have relationships with other professionals I might
need during the process, such as inspectors, home cleaners, movers, or
contractors?
Staging and Preparation:
1) Do you offer advice on preparing my home for sale,
including staging? What is the estimated costs for home staging?
2) What recommendations do you have to make my home more
appealing to potential buyers?
Cancellations and Termination:
1) What is your policy if I'm not satisfied with your
services or want to cancel the contract?
Personal Approach:
1) How do you tailor your strategies to fit the unique
characteristics of my home and situation?
2) What sets you apart from other realtors in the area?
Remember, the interview process is your opportunity to
gauge the realtor's knowledge, professionalism, and compatibility with your
needs. Choose someone who not only has the expertise but also communicates
effectively and makes you feel confident in their ability to handle your home
sale.
Jennifer LaCharite
Associate Broker
RE/MAX Fine Homes
Jen@DanaPointRealtor.Com