12 Questions To Ask Real Estate Pros

Because listing-agreement terms can extend for up to six months, it’s important to hire the right salesperson the first time. These questions will help you score a winner.

1. Are you a REALTOR®?

A realtor is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and therefore is bound by its strict Code of Ethics. REALTORS® are committed to treat all parties to a transaction honestly and are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge about the buying and selling process than practitioners who aren’t NAR members. Identify them by the REALTOR® logo – a stylized block “R” – on their business card, membership pin, or other marketing literature.

2. How long have you been selling real estate?

Level of experience needn’t be the sole arbiter, but it helps.

3. What professional real estate designations do you have?

Salespeople’s designations, the initials following their name, show they’ve completed courses of specialty education. Designations indicate a high level of commitment to staying current.

4. How many homes have you sold in the past year?

You want to know that they’re effective in the current market.

5. What’s your average list-to-sale price ratio?

You want these numbers to align as closely as possible. Salespeople who agree to overprice your home aren’t doing you any favors.

6. What’s the average length of time your listings are on the market?

The longer time, the more likely the salesperson isn’t a stickler for marketing or realistic pricing.

7. How many homes have you sold in the last three months?

8. What specifically will you do to get my home sold?

Expect to see a marketing plan.

9. How often will I hear from you once I’ve given you the listing?

Look for a salesperson who can commit to the level and method of communications – e-mail, fax, phone – that you prefer.

10. What will you do to keep me informed about changes in the market that will effect my price and terms?

11. What are your company’s resources?

Who is your broker and how does your broker support your marketing efforts? Do you have an assistant? If so, what will this person be doing on this listing?

12. Could you please give me the names and phone numbers of three sellers you recently worked with?