Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, investor, or looking for your forever home – choosing a real estate agent is an extremely important step in the home buying process. Having a personable, communicative, patient agent can make or break your experience. Interviewing agents can help you narrow down who will be the best fit for you.
Real Estate Agent Interview Questions
“How Long Have You Been in Real Estate?”
Although tenure isn’t the end-all-be-all of choosing an excellent agent, this question can be helpful. You can gauge how you feel about their answer. But, take note – sometimes newer agents can be a great choice! Their motivation and dedication can give them the upper hand.
“How will you communicate with me?”
Lack of communication is the #1 complaint that clients have about their agents. Knowing their schedule and preferred method of contact will help prevent any frustrating communication breakdowns. Make sure you set an expectation of how often you would like them to communicate with you.
“Do you have an assistant or team?”
The right answer to this question will depend on your preference. A team could mean that they have a lot of help and a lot of ability to communicate effectively. Having an assistant or team can help agents make sure that clients don’t slip through the cracks. It can also mean that you’re regularly handed off to different people, so make sure you know which option you prefer.
“What does your professional network look like?”
As an investor – this is an important question. Agent recommendations for services like lenders, contractors, cleaning, painting, etc can be beneficial when you’re improving a property.
“What knowledge do you have of the area?”
An agent’s local knowledge of the area is a huge benefit; especially if you’re doing long-distance investing. Remember location, location, location! Buying/investing in a good location is key to your success and having an agent who knows the area extremely well can only help you.
“How many listings do you currently have?”
If you’re looking for a listing agent, this question can tell a lot about them. Too many listings — and you’re looking at an agent who may be too busy to service your listing. Too few — and they may not be successful enough to get your property sold.
“May I see your marketing plan?”
If you’re looking for an agent to list your home, their marketing plan is crucial. Some agents will not allow you to view the marketing plan until you sign an agreement, but you can certainly ask.
“Do you have references you can provide me?”
This is extremely important. You need to know how they did with other clients. If an agent refuses to give references, then they’re not the one for you. You may want to keep looking.
Buying a home can be stressful enough but finding a good agent can definitely cut down on that stress! If you’re looking for a great agent, check out ADPI’s search tool. It can be your first step to finding an agent that you connect with and trust.
