Avoiding Common Pitfalls: 11 Questions you Should Ask Before Choosing a Realtor

Are you ready to buy or sell a home?

Choosing the right real estate agent is an important decision that can save you time, money, and stress during the selling process. But how do you know which real estate agent is best for your needs?

There are hundreds of real estate agents out there, all claiming they can get the job done quickly and effectively. It’s easy to be swayed by flashy ads and promises, but it’s important to take the time to ask questions before making any decisions. Knowing what questions to ask will help ensure that you find a knowledgeable professional who understands your goals and has experience in the local market. Here are eleven essential questions you must ask before hiring a Realtor to sell your home.

Will I be working directly with you or handed off to an assistant?

When choosing a real estate agent, it is important to ask your prospective agent if you will be working directly with them or if they will be handing your case off to an assistant when they have too many clients. It is critical to know who exactly you will be working with and what their qualifications are in order to make sure that your best interests are being taken into consideration. Also make sure you ask if it’s a full time job for them or if they’re a part time agent.

Do you work with buyers, sellers, or both?

When it comes to whether or not a real esate agent is a buyer’s agent, a seller’s agent, or both, the answer is usually both. Many agents provide services for both buyers and sellers in order to better serve their clients. This enables them to understand each party’s needs and provide the best possible outcome for all involved. Buyer agents can help search for homes that meet their criteria and negotiate on their behalf. Seller’s agents are well versed in market trends to help set the right selling price for each home.

Are there any additional services that you offer such as staging advice or negotiating tips?

Most realtors will be able to provide some level of assistance with staging your home in order to make it more appealing to potential buyers. Many real estate agents understand the importance of a well-presented home and will be able to suggest small changes which can make a big difference in the final selling price.

How often will I hear from you during the process of buying/selling my home?

An important question to ask a real estate agent is how often you will hear from them and what communication style you can expect during the process of buying or selling your home. This is key in order to ensure that both parties are kept up to date on progress and are provided with regular updates. A good agent should be in contact with you throughout the entire process, providing feedback and advice as needed.

Do you provide detailed market analysis reports to help me understand current trends better?

When choosing a listing agent, it is important to ask if they provide detailed market analysis reports of recently sold homes and local market sales data, helping you better understand current trends. An experienced agent should be able to provide you with accurate, up-to-date reports that will help you make informed decisions.

What strategies do use to promote properties for sale?

It’s essential to understand the different strategies a realtor uses to market and advertise your property. Ask potential realtors what techniques they have used in the past as well as what strategies they plan on using in order to help you get the top dollar for your home. Experienced agents will be more than happy to go ofer their marketing strategy to make sure everyone is on the same page.

How do negotiate on behalf of buyers and sellers to get them the best deal possible?

Negotiating can be a tricky process, so it’s important to choose a realtor who is knowledgeable and experienced negotiation skills. Ask potential realtors what strategies they use to ensure buyers and sellers get the best deal possible. A good realtor will be well-versed in both parties’ needs and wants and be able to bridge gaps between them. The wrong agent will just want to get to the closing table and not consider each parties perspective or how to get the best price.

How do you help me find a suggested listing price?

Pricing your home correctly is key to sell faster and to achieve the best possible outcome. There are several strategies you should be aware of to show up at the top of the home search results for many buyers. Good agents will be able to provide you with a suggested listing price based on solid market research and experience. They should also keep track of current trends, the sale to list price ratio, and similar properties in the local community in order to ensure that your home has a good asking price for its given location.

Will you help me with what I need to do to get my home ready?

We can help you with minor suggestions (if needed) to get your home ready. This helps you get the maximum price in a lower than average number of days on the open market. This advice can include some condition-based improvements (paint, flooring, etc) or any staging recommendations to place each room in its best light! Make sure this is part of your marketing plan and ask a realtor for their input! A well staged and clean home sells for the most money!

Do you have a group of local professionals that can help me in various stages like movers, cleaners, and tradespeople?

Your real estate agent should have a trained and experienced group of local professionals that can help their clients in various stages of the home buying process, such as movers, cleaners, and licensed professional tradespeople. This network is an invaluable asset for those looking to buy or sell a home because it allows you to access services that would otherwise be difficult to find or change your ideal schedule.

What are the contract terms and can I cancel?

When it comes to the contract terms and cancellation policy of a real estate transaction, it is important to understand your rights. As such, it is essential to ask a real estate agent about the specific contract terms and whether you can cancel the agreement for any reason. Here at the Whalley Group, we have a performance-based compensation structure and a no-handcuff contract. You can cancel at any time.

Choosing the right real estate agent is essential for any successful home sale or purchase. It’s important to ask your potential listing agent about their experience, strategies, and contract terms before making a decision. Here at The Whalley Group, we strive to provide our clients with the best service possible by offering detailed market analysis reports along with professional networks of local movers, cleaners, and tradespeople. We also have performance-based compensation structures and no-handcuff contracts that allow you to cancel anytime if needed. With us as your partner in buying and selling homes, you can be sure that all bases are covered so you get the best deal possible!