Hiring a real estate agent to help you sell your home is a big step. With the right Realtor, you can sell your home quickly to a reliable buyer. If you choose the wrong person, you could get ignored and your house might stay on the market. Do you know what to ask a Realtor?
Let’s talk about which questions reveal if a potential real estate agent is a good match for your needs. Keep in mind that an agent may be very experienced — and still a bad fit for what is required to sell your particular home. If you’re about to list a property, start with these questions.
What to ask a Realtor before you sign a contract
1. How many clients do you have right now?
You want an agent who is experience, but who also has time to dedicate to your sale. If they are overcommitted, they may not have enough energy to make sure you have enough open houses. Worse, they may not be able to meet a potential buyer for a private showing. An agent with a few other listings is not a red flag, but watch out for an agent who says they have 10 active listings.
2. How many homes have you sold in this neighborhood?
An agent may have better luck selling your home if they are familiar with what buyers are looking for you in your zip code. If you’re trying to sell a place in West Sacramento, for instance, you want an agent who has successfully sold properties there within the last few years. Even better if they specialize in sales on your side of the city.
3. When are you available?
Agents have to have boundaries. Don’t expect a response to your midnight text. But you should also be able to contact your Realtor during the day and receive a reasonably prompt response. If you have an agent who is only available to you on Tuesdays and Thursdays, you may end up waiting longer to sell your home. Plus, you’ll wind up frustrated.
4. Do you have other professionals in your network?
At some point in the selling process, you may need a lawyer, a home stager, a plumber, or… well, you get the idea. Other professionals may get involved. Can your agent connect you with trusted vendors? As your agent if they have a network of other pros at their disposal.
5. How many days does it usually take you to sell a home?
If you don’t have time to waste, you want an agent who is ready to hit the ground running. You want to know the average number of days it takes your Realtor to sell a home in Sacramento. Then, look at how that compares to the average number of days it takes all homes to sell in your area. Is your potential agent able to sell homes at or better than average?
6. Do you have referrals?
When in doubt, ask to speak to someone who has previously listed their home with your potential agent. An experienced agent should have client references who can offer a positive review.
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