Selling your home is probably one of the most important investments in your life, so you should take the process of choosing a real estate agent seriously. He will be responsible for setting the sales price, marketing, open houses, speaking with potential buyers and assisting through the sales process. Ask your friends and neighbors for personal recommendations, but take the time to interview several agents before making a decision.
10 questions you should ask before hiring a Realtor
- Knowledge and expertise in your neighborhood: You must be able to answer the following 4 questions regarding your neighborhood:
- What is the average price per square foot of available units?
- What is the average price per square foot of units sold?
- On average, how many days do properties take to sell?
- Comparative analysis of prices and sales of the last 3 years and what is the future forecast.
2. Price Range of Your Recent Sales: Look for someone who typically works with homes in your price range to ensure familiarity with your market.
3. Number of properties sold in the last year: it is an indicator of experience. Greater number of properties = greater experience.
4. Neighborhood experience: Familiarity, knowledge and experience with your neighborhood can be the difference between “for sale” and “selling.”
5. Difference between the initial market price and the final sale price. Many brokers will accept the price you want and then start asking for price reductions. Look for someone who, through comparables, assigns a realistic selling price.
6. Marketing the property: Marketing involves more than just an MLS listing. Find a good marketing plan.
7. Clarity: Find someone who will be honest with you about your home’s weaknesses and how to fix them.
8. Team: Look for someone who can provide you with a team capable of providing legal, tax, inheritance and financial advice that are key in this process.
9. Communication: Find someone who will provide you with frequent updates and make him or his team available to clarify any questions.
10. References: Ask for the names and phone numbers of the last 3 clients to confirm their satisfaction.
