Working with a real estate agent is a little like a short-term marriage. You’ll be in close proximity for an undetermined amount of time (at least 3 to 6 months from start to closing) so it’s a good idea to find someone with whom you’re compatible. To ensure you’re working with the right person, take on the responsibility of interviewing several agents or brokers before you make your final decision.
You can find out a lot about agents just by the way they answer these questions. If they seem reluctant to share information with you, that may be a sign of things to come. If they’re open and friendly, and you develop a connection on the phone, you may have found someone with whom you’ll enjoy working.
1. How many residential real estate transactions have you completed in each of the
past three years?
2. What percentage of your home business is with home buyers?
3. How old are your clients on average?
4. What was the price range of the homes you helped people buy and sell last year?
5. How many years have you been in the real estate business?
6. How many years have you been with this company?
7. What was the average price of the homes you helped your clients buy and sell?
8. Are you an exclusive buyer broker?
9. Do you ask home buyers to sign an exclusivity contract?
10. Do you charge an up-front fee that is later applied to the commission?
11. What are the primary neighborhoods or communities in which you work?
12. How familiar are you with the schools, crime statistics, and demographics of the
various neighborhoods.
13. What style of home do you most frequently work with?
14. How many home buyers or sellers do you work with at a given time?
15. How can I reach you? Can I e-mail you or phone you at home?
16. Do you work with an assistant? Will I be working with an assistant or with you?