How to Interview and Choose the Real Estate Agent Who Will Sell Your House?
Selling your home is probably one of the most important investments in your life, so the process of choosing a real estate agent should be taken seriously. He will be responsible for setting the sale price, marketing, open houses, talking to potential buyers and helping through the sales process. Ask your friends and neighbors for personal recommendations, but take the time to interview several agents before making your decision.
10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Realtor
- Knowledge and expertise in your neighborhood: You should be able to answer the following 4 questions about your neighborhood:
- What is the average price per square foot of the available units?
- What is the average price per square foot of the units sold?
- On average, how many days does it take properties to sell?
- Comparative analysis of prices and sales of the last 3 years and what is the future forecast
- Price Range of Your Last Sales: Look for someone who typically deals with homes in your price range to ensure familiarity with your market.
- Number of properties sold in the last year: it is an indicator of experience. More properties = more experience.
- Experience in the neighborhood: Familiarity, knowledge and experience with your neighborhood can be the difference between “being for sale” and “selling”.
- Difference between the initial market price and the final sale price. Many brokers will agree to the price you want and then start asking for price reductions. Look for someone who, through comparables, assigns a realistic asking price.
- Property Marketing: Marketing involves more than just an MLS listing. Look for a good marketing plan.
- Clarity: Find someone who is honest with you about your house’s weaknesses and how
- Team: Look for someone who can provide you with a team capable of providing you with legal, tax, probate and financial advice that are key in this process.
- Communication: Look for someone to provide frequent updates and have him or her team available to answer any questions.
- References: Ask for the names and phone numbers of the last 3 clients to confirm their satisfaction