Are you in the market for a new home or looking to sell your current one? Choosing a real estate agent is an important decision that can greatly impact your buying or selling experience. But with so many agents out there, how do you know which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll provide you with the top questions to ask when choosing a real estate agent. From their experience and qualifications to their communication style and marketing approach, these questions will help ensure that you choose an agent who understands your needs and has the skills to make your real estate journey a success. So let’s dive in!
What is the agent’s experience?
The agent’s experience is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a real estate agent. You want to find an agent who has a good track record and is familiar with the area you’re interested in. Ask the agent how many years they’ve been in business, how many properties they’ve sold, and what their average sale price is. Also, be sure to ask if they have any specialties or areas of expertise.
How many homes have they closed?
The number of homes a real estate agent has closed is important to consider when choosing an agent. A high number of closed homes means that the agent is experienced and knows the ins and outs of the real estate market. However, it’s also important to take into account the location where the agent has closed homes. For example, if you’re looking for an agent in a rural area, you’ll want to make sure that they have experience with rural properties.
What designations do they hold?
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is the largest trade association in the United States for real estate agents. Membership in the NAR requires adherence to a strict code of ethics and provides access to a variety of resources, including education and research. The NAR also awards several different designations that signify a higher level of experience and expertise.
When choosing a real estate agent, it’s important to ask about any designations they may hold. The most common designation awarded by the NAR is the REALTOR® designation, which can only be used by members of the organization. Other popular designations include the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR).
Each designation requires completion of different courses and exams, so they are a good indication of an agent’s level of experience and knowledge. Designations can also signal an agent’s specialization in a certain area, such as working with first-time home buyers or representing sellers in short sales.
So when you’re interviewing potential agents, be sure to ask about their designations and what they mean. It could be the difference between working with a true professional and someone who is just getting started in the business.
What are their past clients saying about them?
When you’re looking for a real estate agent, it’s important to do your research and ask around. A great way to get started is to ask their past clients about their experience working with the agent. Here are some questions you can ask:
-What was your overall experience working with the agent?
-Did they help you find the right property?
-Were they available when you needed them?
-Did they negotiate a good price for your property?
-Would you recommend them to others?
How will they communicate with you during the process?
Your real estate agent should keep you in the loop throughout the entire process, from start to finish. They should be proactive in communicating with you and keeping you updated on the status of your transaction. They should also be available to answer any questions you may have along the way.
What is their fee structure?
The fee structure of a real estate agent can vary depending on the services they provide and the area in which they operate. In most cases, agents will charge a percentage of the final sale price of the home as their commission. This fee is typically split between the buyer’s and seller’s agent, with each agent receiving a percentage of the total commission. The exact percentage can vary, but is typically around 2-3% for each agent. So, if you’re selling a home for $200,000, your total commission would be $6000, with each agent receiving $3000.
There are some circumstances where an agent may charge a flat fee instead of a commission. This is often the case when an agent is listing a home for sale by owner (FSBO). In this situation, the agent may simply charge a set amount to list the home on the MLS and handle all showings and paperwork. The FSBO seller would then be responsible for paying any buyer’s agent commissions out of their own pocket.
It’s important to ask about an agent’s fee structure upfront so that there are no surprises later on in the process. Be sure to get all fees in writing so that you have a clear understanding of what you’ll be expected to pay.
Conclusion
Having the right real estate agent can make a huge difference when it comes to buying or selling a home. Before you hire an agent, be sure to ask them all of these questions so that you know you are making the best decision for your situation. With the information provided here, and by asking the right questions, you can rest assured knowing your real estate transaction is in good hands with an experienced and knowledgeable real estate agent.
