Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Agent When Selling Your Home

Finding the right agent to sell your home can be incredibly difficult, and it is extremely important to find the right agent to work for you. When searching for the agent of your dreams, you often have to play the situation out similar to finding a mate. All jokes aside, having the right chemistry with someone working with you to sell your home is almost as important as putting the for sale sign in the front yard! Now, how can you tell if the agent is the right fit for you? What type of questions can help you dictate your ideal agent? When finding the right agent to work for you, set up an appointment and ask these questions:

 What are your credentials? 

This is mostly common sense, but you need to have an agent who is certified. As you start the process of selling your home, you will need to have an agent with a state license and work with a local team. If you work with an agent who does not carry the credentials necessary to sell your home, your home will not sell at your ideal price. By working with a real estate professional, they will have access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and can list your home far and wide. Doing this will allow you to gain attraction amongst many potential buyers. All in all, you do not want an amateur selling your home; you need a professional who can get you the most money possible!

How many sales did you close last year?

A real estate agent’s previous sales performance does not dictate if your home will sell quickly and for an amazing price. However, it bodes well for you if they have had a history of success with sellers. As this is never a guarantee, it can provide some assurance that they know what they're doing when selling your home. You may also want to ask about the amount of sellers they have helped in the past along with the price ranges of the homes. This can give you a good indication if they are right for selling your home. If they have a proven track record in selling homes in a certain price range, having your home within their sweet spot is just as important. By having an agent who knows how to sell your home and market its special features will basically put more money in your pocket at the end of the sale!

Do you specialize in this neighborhood?

Having a local real estate professional can give you a huge advantage in selling your home. Local agents stay on top of the local market and other items that can affect the value of your home, how quickly it will sell, and the price you are likely to get. Local agents know the town, so be sure to hire a real estate professional within your area!

How do you arrive at the listing price?

There are a number of important factors to consider when choosing a real estate agent, and understanding their ability on pricing a home is equally important. A property that is priced too high will turn-off potential buyers, even in this market. On the other side of the spectrum, pricing your home too low may leave money on the table, and a great real estate professional will try and prevent this from happening. Before you hire them to sell your home, be sure of their knowledge. Be sure they are knowledgeable about the local market and what other similar homes have sold for. This will help you arrive at the best price possible for your home!

Whom will I be working with?

This is a tricky question, but this will help you figure out if you are working with one specific agent or a member of the agent’s team. Many agents form teams, which makes it easier to keep in contact with their clientele. Each scenario has its pros and cons, so be sure to clear this up and ask an abundance of questions. If you are wanting to work with one, specific agent, ask this question. This will help you decide if they are the right fit for your specific needs.

How much will selling my home cost?

Be sure to cover the costs that you, as the seller, will be responsible for, such as the broker’s commission, closing fees, and anything else. This will give you the understanding you need before any surprise costs. However, all of this information can be expected to be in the listing agreement with your agent.

What is your sales plan?

A real estate professional should have a written plan or a list of ideas on how to market your home accordingly and attract as many potential buyers as possible. This can range from being placed in the MLS to being advertised on social media. There is an abundance of marketing that is done with selling your home, so be sure your agent is up to the task! This will help ensure you get an amazing price for your home!

What should I do to get my house ready?

Walk through your home with your agent, and see if they have any suggestions on any necessary repairs or upgrades for a budget-friendly improvement. Get their advice about decluttering certain areas. If you are interested in a staging or cleaning service, they may have a few ideas on locally owned businesses to help you.

How will we communicate?

Not a great texter? Would you rather your agent call you? Regardless of the type of communication, it is important to discuss the communication with your agent. A good real estate professional will accommodate your specific needs, and your preferred communication method is one. Be sure your agent knows your preferences!

How long will the process take?

No agent can guarantee how fast their home will sell, but they should be able to give you a range on how long it will take to sell your home.