Did you know that 72% of sellers only contact one agent before they list? When you’re entrusting someone with your biggest investment, it’s crucial to interview a few agents before settling on the right one. If you’re not sure what to ask, here are a few questions to get you started!
Do you have your real estate license?
All right, this one might seem like a no-brainer, but there’s no harm in asking. Any agent you work with should have a valid real estate license in North Carolina. If they cannot (or refuse!) to show you their license, it’s time to move on.
Are you a part-time or full-time agent?
When it comes to selling your home, do you want to work with someone that puts in part-time or full-time effort? Working with a full-time agent means that your listing will get the attention it deserves—and they’ll probably have more experience, too.
How long have you been an agent?
Speaking of experience, you should definitely ask your potential agent how long they’ve been selling real estate. Remember, some agents only focus on buying, so it’s important to be specific! Unless you really connect with a new agent, it’s best to go with someone that has a few years of experience under their belts.
How many clients do you currently represent?
When you work with an agent, you’ll want them to devote as much time to selling your home as possible. However, if they’re good at what they do, they’ll probably be in high demand. Make sure your agent has enough time to handle another listing, or just wait until their schedule clears up.
Have you sold homes in my neighborhood before?
While interviewing an agent, be sure to ask if they’ve sold homes in your neighborhood before. Having that kind of hyper-local experience can help you attract the right buyer, and they’ll also be familiar with nearby amenities and attractions.
What is your marketing strategy for my home?
When it comes to marketing your home, you’ll want an agent that has a full-spectrum, team-focused approach. Ask them about their web, print, and word-of-mouth marketing strategies…but also inquire about how much that exposure will cost. You’ll want to make sure the entire marketing process goes smoothly, so don’t be afraid to put their experience and knowledge to work for you.
Can I contact your past clients?
The best agents have a long list of past clients and testimonials, and they should be happy to share them with you. If they seem dodgy about contacting people they’ve worked with, it’s time to move on to your next option.
What’s your commission policy?
Before you hire an agent, you’ll want to get familiar with their commission policy. They should be able to give you an estimate of what it will cost to list your home, as well as any additional fees that they charge. If the percentage they give you seems too high or low, don’t be afraid to ask them about it.
Looking for the Right Agent?
Interviewing an agent is no easy task, but we’d love to answer any questions you might have! Spencer Properties has over 20 years of real estate experience, and we’d love to help you list, market, and sell your home in the Triangle. Feel free to contact us with any questions or check out our selling resources for more information.