Questions to Ask a Realtor Before Working with Them

So, you've decided to buy or sell a home and now you need a Realtor. But, how do you know if you're choosing the right one? It can be a daunting task, but fear not! With a little guidance, you will be able to filter through all the BS and get to the bottom of it. You want to make sure you hire a Realtor that is not only knowledgeable, and skilled, but also someone who is a problem solver, creator, communicator, and someone you like. These should be presented as situational, real life questions and examples. Also, open ended. Not yes or no. But, " tell me, show me, where, what, why," types of questions. Definitely not questions like, "How Many homes have you sold, How long have you been in business?" Controversial opinion, those questions are pointless.

First and foremost, ask them about their sales history. But, don't ask how many homes they've sold. Instead, ask them how their clients' experience was. Ask them to see their reviews/testimonials. Request they tell you about a problem that came up in a transaction, and how they handled it. You don't want a Realtor who just pushes houses on anyone who will buy them and doesn’t keep your best interest. You don’t want to be just another number. Not every transaction is smooth. Not every transaction is the same. You want someone who cares about their clients. Who protects them, and can solve any problems that may come up in a transaction. 

A Realtor that will overcome objections, communicate, and keep your best interest at heart is worth their weight in gold.

Next, ask them about their marketing strategies. Are they just going to stick a "For Sale" sign in your front yard and call it a day? Are they just going to send you the same properties you have already seen online? Or do they have a more creative approach? Maybe they'll create a unique TikTok video featuring your home that results in many eyes on your home, run Youtube property tours, or use targeted social media ads to reach potential buyers. Do they have a large network of connections in the business, that will benefit you as a Home Buyer? Perhaps they can get you into a home before it hits the market, because of those connections. You NEED a Realtor that is skilled in Social Media. That is creative and thinks outside the box. Ask them to show you the the analytics of the ads they run or their video reach. Realtors will say, "Sure we use social media” and all they do is post your property on their social media timeline. That only shows up to their friends, family, or business network. None of which is interested in your home. You want a Realtor who will go above and beyond to get your home sold, or find the perfect home for you, beating out the competition in this market.

Don't forget to ask about their negotiation skills. You don't want someone who will fold at the first sign of resistance from a potential buyer or seller. Ask them to tell you about a time they had to use their negotiation skills to seal a deal. Did they come out on top? Or did they fold like a cheap suit? You want a realtor who will fight for you and get you the best possible deal.

Speaking of deals, ask them about their compensation. You want to know exactly how much money you'll be shelling out for their services. How they negotiate their fee will also tell you a lot about how they will negotiate your sale. If they give right in, or are NOT confident in negotiating with you and giving away their own money, imagine what they will do with your money. You should be paying more for someone with more negotiation skills, problem solving ability, and creativity. A Realtor that will overcome objections, communicate, and keep your best interest at heart is all worth their weight in gold. Paying more for someone that is great at their job, should mean more money saved, or earned on your sale. After all, it's your money that's on the line when it’s all said and done. 

You NEED a Realtor that is skilled in Social Media. That is creative and thinks outside the box.        

Another important question to ask is, how they handle difficult clients and situations? Let's face it, not everyone is easy to work with. So, ask them how they handle clients who are demanding, indecisive, or just plain rude. You want a Realtor who can handle any situation with grace and professionalism.

And while you're at it, ask them if they have any horror stories from their time in the business. Real Estate can be a wild and crazy world, so it's always good to know what kind of experiences your Realtor has had. Just don't let their stories scare you off! If you are asking honest questions you want to make sure you get honest answers. You must be prepared for each answer. Know what answers you will like, don’t like, and which are absolute deal breakers for you. 

Of course, you'll also want to ask about their knowledge of the local market. Do they know the ins and outs of the neighborhood you're interested in or where you are selling your home? Each market has different tendencies, traditions, price trajectories, and market activity. 

But, perhaps the most important question to ask is simply this: do you like them? Buying or selling a home can be a long and stressful process, so you want to make sure you're working with someone you actually enjoy being around. Are they funny? Personable? Easy to talk to? If the answer is no, it might be time to move on to someone else.

In conclusion, finding the right Realtor doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right plan,  and some key questions, you can find the perfect Realtor for you. Just remember, the most important thing is, can they get the job done for you and your situation? Will your needs be met,  and will it be as easy as possible for you? Can you see yourself enjoying working with this person? In many ways, this is a partnership for several weeks to months. You want to make sure you are happy with your partner. The great ones will become friends afterwards, if both sides do it right! Like I have always said, if you can't trust your Realtor, get a new one!

Like I have always said, if you can't trust your Realtor, get a new one!