Choosing the right realtor can make a significant impact in the success of your home sale. A knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent can guide you through the process, help you set the right price, market your home effectively, and negotiate the best deal with potential buyers. To ensure you find the best realtor for your needs, here are essential questions to ask during your selection process:

1. How familiar are you with my neighborhood?

Local knowledge is crucial when selling a home. Ask the realtor about their experience working in your area and how they stay updated on market trends, property values, and other factors that can affect your sale.

2. What is your experience in selling homes like mine?

Every home is unique, and it's essential to work with a realtor who has experience selling properties similar to yours. Ask about their track record with homes of your type, size, and price range.

3. What is your marketing strategy?

A strong marketing plan that is tried and true can attract the most amount of potential buyers quickly and effectively. Inquire about how the realtor plans to market your home online and offline, including their use of social media, listing sites, open houses, and other promotional tactics.

4. How will you price my home?

Pricing your home correctly is a main key to a successful closing. Ask how the realtor will determine the optimal listing price, including their use of comparable sales data and local market analysis.

5. How will you communicate with me?

Clear and consistent communication is essential during the selling process. Ask the realtor how often they will update you on the progress of your sale and what methods of communication they prefer.

6. What is your commission structure?

Understanding the realtor's commission structure and any additional fees is essential for budgeting. Ask about their rates and any/all services included in the commission. Keep in mind the length of your contract with the realtor as well. A lengthy contract may mean the realtor is not confident your home will sell.

7. Can you provide reviews or testimonials?

A reputable realtor should be able to provide reviews or testimonials from past clients. This can give you insight into their professionalism, expertise, tenure, and ability to deliver results.

8. How do you handle negotiations?

Effective negotiation can make or break a deal. Ask the realtor about their approach to negotiations and how they plan to handle offers, counteroffers, and contingencies.

9. What is your availability like?

Your realtor's availability can impact the speed and ease of your sale. Ask about their schedule and how they prioritize their clients to ensure they can dedicate enough time to your needs and your home sale.

10. How do you handle multiple offers?

In a competitive market, you may receive multiple offers on your home. Ask the realtor how they handle this situation and how they advise you to choose the best offer.

Here is a quick word from a past client that received 8 offers in 3 days:

"With David’s help, we had 8 offers in one weekend. He truly cared about me as a client and made sure he had my best interest in mind in every detail when accepting an offer, all the way down to the closing date. In the end, we walked away with 13k over asking price and an 18 day settlement. I firmly believe that we were able to make this happen all because of David’s work!" - Lindsay A.

11. What support services do you offer?

Some realtors provide additional services such as staging, professional photography, 3-D tours, Drone Video footage and Photography, accurate floor plans, and home inspection coordination. Ask about any extra support they offer to help your home stand out to buyers.

Conclusion

Asking the right questions can help you find a realtor who aligns with your goals and priorities. Take the time to interview the agent and compare their answers to your needs and make an informed decision. By choosing the right realtor, you'll set yourself up for not just a successful and smooth home selling experience but a fun and stress free one! Contact me today if you would like to set up a time for me to answer these questions for you!