Picking the right agent to sell your home is a big decision, and it's worth taking the time to get it right. You deserve a Realtor who will represent you with skill and care. To help you figure out who's the best fit, here are fifteen questions I'd encourage every seller to ask before signing on.
1. Can I See Reviews From Past Clients?
Most of us check reviews before making a purchase, and hiring an agent should be no different. An established agent will have testimonials from past buyers and sellers ready for you to read.
2. How Will You Figure Out What My Home Is Worth?
Getting the value right, and pricing strategically from day one, is key to selling quickly and for a strong price. Online estimate tools only tell part of the story. A real valuation weighs hundreds of factors, and no two reports look alike.
It starts with your address: recent sale prices nearby, how desirable your neighborhood is, the special features of your home, and the surrounding area. From there, the agent should dig into your home's condition and any upgrades that could push its value above the houses around it. A good valuation is prepared by a person, not spit out by an algorithm with one click.
3. What Would a Strong Offer Look Like in Today's Market?
Your agent should be on top of current market data and trends. Home values shift over time, so what your house would sell for today may differ from last year or next year. I share market updates on a regular basis so my clients always know where things stand.
4. Have You Sold Homes in My Neighborhood?
Many agents focus on particular areas, so make sure the person you hire knows yours. Ask to see their recent sales.
5. Where Do You See the Market Heading Over the Next Six Months?
Good advice requires solid analysis and a sense of what's coming, especially when conditions are changing fast. I'm always glad to talk through my outlook with you.
6. Can You Help With Staging?
Staging shows your home at its best and can help you earn top dollar. Some agents offer staging consultations, while others provide full staging services. Ask what's included.
7. Will You Use Professional Photography or Video?
According to VHT Studios, homes with professional photos sell 32 percent faster. With so many buyers starting their search online, how your home looks on screen matters more than ever. Ask about professional photos, video, virtual tours, and 3D Matterport scans.
8. What's Your Marketing Plan?
Effective marketing includes staging, professional photos and virtual tours, an MLS listing, social media promotion, and outreach to likely buyers. Your agent should have a clear plan for every one of these steps.
9. What Happens If My Home Doesn't Sell Right Away?
A good agent works hard to keep your home from lingering on the market, but they should also have a backup plan ready if it does.
10. Can You Walk Me Through the Whole Selling Process?
Selling a home involves lots of steps, costs, and emotions. The right agent serves as a trusted advisor from the first conversation to closing day. My blog is also a helpful resource for answers to common seller questions.
11. Should I Complete Any Projects Before Listing?
Some improvements make it easier for buyers to picture themselves living in your home. Your agent can tour your home in person or virtually and give you a list of tasks to tackle before going live.
12. How Long Do You Expect It Will Take to Sell?
No one can promise an exact timeline because so many factors are at play. Still, an agent can use the current average days on market and other trends to give you a reasonable estimate.
13. Can You Help Me Buy My Next Home, Too?
With inventory as tight as it is, some sellers hesitate to list because they worry about finding their next place. Agents can see everything on the MLS and sometimes know about off-market homes. Your agent should also tap their network and talk you through options if you need somewhere to stay temporarily between homes.
14. Will We Hold Open Houses?
Traditional open houses let buyers get a feel for a home's flow and atmosphere. They're still possible today, including virtual versions, and your agent can guide you through how they'll work.
15. How Is Your Commission Structured?
Make sure you understand how your agent is paid and which services are covered. Selling a home takes real expertise, and a good agent delivers it at every stage. If you have questions about commission, I'm happy to discuss them.
Still Have Questions?
If you're considering selling, I'd love to hear what's on your mind. Reach out anytime and let's talk.