10 questions to ask before you choose a REALTOR®

Whether you’re buying or selling, one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your real estate journey is choosing the right REALTOR® to work with.

There are many ways to build a shortlist of potential REALTORS® to interview, from checking online reviews and real estate websites to asking friends and family members for referrals.

But when it comes time to actually meet in person, here are 10 questions you should ask every real estate agent you interview, to help you decide which REALTOR® is the right fit for you.

Question #1: How long have you been a REALTOR®?

There’s simply no substitute for experience. While you shouldn’t automatically choose whichever REALTOR® has the most years under their belt, you do want to make sure they’re an experienced professional who treats real estate like a full-time career – not a side hustle.

So in addition to asking how long they’ve been in business, get a better sense of their experience by asking how many properties they typically sell in an average year, or how many transactions they closed last year.

Question #2: Are you licensed?

Make sure you choose a REALTOR® who is certified and licensed to work in the province of British Columbia.

This includes making sure they’re a member in good standing of their local Real Estate Board and checking with the BC Financial Services Authority to confirm that they completed all the relevant training and education, passed their licensing exam, and are actively licensed to practice real estate in your area.

Question #3: What’s your area of specialization?

If there’s a specific type of property you’re looking for – single-family homes, condos, a vacation property, or even commercial or investment properties – choose a REALTOR® who has either made that area of the market their speciality, or who has experience buying and selling the same types of homes.

This also applies to making sure your REALTOR® has experience with homes that are in your price range, as well as any other factors you think might be relevant to you, your housing search, or your existing property.

Question #4: How well do you know the neighbourhood?

If you know the neighbourhood(s) or communities where you want to look for a home, make sure the REALTORS® you meet with have experience in those areas, and can demonstrate a deep understanding of the local market.

Knowing the local market inside-out will help with everything from tracking the latest trends and making your property stand out to figuring out the best price to ask for (or offer).

Question #5: What’s your selling (or buying) strategy?

For sellers, ask prospective agents what platforms they use for advertising, what their marketing strategy is, and how they’ll use it to help you sell your home fast and for the best price possible.

For buyers, ask each REALTOR® how they determine listing prices, what their approach is to showings, and what their negotiation strategy is like when you’re ready to put in an offer.

Question #6: How is your communication style?

When it comes to real estate, communication is key. So ask each REALTOR® you interview about their style of communication, and make sure it matches how you prefer to stay informed.

For example, when and how often will they keep you updated? What’s their preferred method for keeping in touch? And what’s the best way for you to reach out to them if you have any questions or concerns?

Question #7: What are your fees and financial terms?

Before making any decisions, review each REALTOR’s® financial terms, commission structure and contracts. You can also ask if there are any additional costs that might apply, and what the terms would be if you decided to end the contract early.

While asking these kinds of questions can sometimes feel a little awkward, they can also go a long way towards clarifying how things will work – and helping you avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road.

Question #8: Do you work with a team?

While some REALTORS® prefer to work on their own, many have a team of professionals they work closely with – from lawyers and mortgage brokers to marketing assistants, social media managers, home stagers, insurance agents and contractors.

If you’re getting into business with a particular REALTOR®, you’ll likely also be spending a lot of time with their team members. So ask about their relevant skills or experience, and see if you can meet with them as well before you make any firm decisions.

Question #9: How many clients are you currently working with?

Asking this question is a good way to assess each agent’s workload, and make sure they have the time to provide the kind of personalized service you require.

REALTORS® with too few clients may not have the focus you want, while those with too many might be too busy to dedicate the time you need. So look for a balance that feels right for you.

Question #10: Can you give me any references?

Online reviews are great. But it’s still essential to ask any REALTOR® you’re thinking about working with for references from at least three past clients who would be willing to talk to you.

Once you get those references, take the time to actually reach out to them, and ask them to share everything they’re willing to about their experience, and why that particular REALTOR® was the best choice for them.

Any other questions?

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