What to Ask a Realtor When Selling Your Home

Selecting the right real estate agent is key when selling a home. The interview process is a key step in making an informed choice. Engaging agents with targeted questions helps homeowners assess their expertise, strategic approach, and suitability for their selling needs. This ensures alignment between seller expectations and agent capabilities.

Understanding Agent Experience

Inquire about an agent’s professional background and track record to assess proficiency. Years in business provide insight into familiarity with market cycles and conditions. Ask about their experience selling properties in your neighborhood or with similar characteristics.

Inquiring about an agent’s typical sales volume over the last year indicates their activity and success rate, and how many transactions they manage concurrently. Ask how agents navigate challenging market conditions, such as low buyer demand or fluctuating interest rates, to understand their problem-solving approach. Request references from past clients to verify performance and client satisfaction.

Marketing Your Property

A thorough marketing strategy attracts potential buyers and maximizes visibility. Ask agents to detail their marketing plan, outlining how they reach a broad audience. Inquire about online channels they utilize, such as professional photography, virtual tours, and drone footage. They leverage major real estate listing and social media platforms.

Discuss offline marketing approaches, including open houses, private showings, and print advertising. Understand their staging philosophy, including professional services or guidance. Ask how they highlight unique property features, such as renovations or energy-efficient upgrades. Clarify team member involvement, such as marketing specialists or showing assistants, to understand support scope.

Pricing Your Home

Optimal listing price requires a strategic market analysis. Ask agents about their process for conducting a comparative market analysis (CMA), evaluating recently sold properties similar in location, size, and features. This analysis includes active listings and failed sales, providing a complete market picture.

Beyond recent sales, inquire about other factors the agent considers when recommending a price, such as current market trends, economic indicators, and property condition. Account for unique features and neighborhood amenities. Discuss their strategy for adjusting the price if the home does not attract sufficient interest or offers within a specified timeframe. Agents provide a clear, data-driven rationale for their recommended listing price.

Communication During the Process

Clear communication expectations with a real estate agent ensure a smooth selling experience. Inquire about how often and through what methods they provide updates on showings, market feedback, and progress. Methods include phone calls, email summaries, text messages, or an online client portal.

Understand their preferred method for scheduling showings and receiving buyer feedback. Discuss the agent’s approach to handling negotiations, including presenting offers, preparing counteroffers, and managing multiple offers. Their negotiation style and experience provide peace of mind. Clarify their availability for urgent communications, especially when time-sensitive decisions or unexpected issues arise. Clear communication protocols maintain transparency and reduce stress.

Agent Fees and Agreements

Understanding financial aspects and contractual terms with a real estate agent is essential. Ask about the agent’s total commission structure, commonly 5% to 6% of the final sale price. This commission is split between the listing and buyer’s agents.

Inquire about specific services included within the agreed commission. Discuss the typical duration of the listing agreement, often three to six months, and if extensions are possible. Clarify terms for early cancellation or withdrawal, including potential fees or reimbursement for marketing expenses.