7 Questions to Ask Prospective Realtors

There are many things that people think of when they're considering buying or selling a home, but choosing the right realtor can be one of the most important. Those who choose to work with an experienced and knowledgeable agent may find themselves saving time and money, as well as navigating through what could otherwise be confusing processes. Here are seven questions to ask any realtor you might be considering working with.

1. How Long Have You Been Working as a Realtor?

The amount of experience a realtor has can be indicative of their expertise in the field. Someone who has been practicing for a while will likely have more knowledge about the industry and how to help you successfully buy or sell your home.

2. What Is Your Success Rate?

When considering any professional, it's important to know their success rate. Ask the realtor how often they have helped buyers buy a home that met their expectations and how often sellers received the price they were hoping for.

3. What Is Your Specialty?

Not all realtors are created equal. Some may specialize in working with buyers, while others may work mainly with sellers. It's important to find someone whose specialty aligns with your needs and goals.

4. What Are Your Fees?

Realtors typically charge a commission for their services, which is usually a percentage of the home's sale price. Be sure to ask the realtor about their fees upfront, so there are no surprises later.

5. What Kind of Training Do You Have?

Look for a realtor who actively keeps up with industry trends and is well-versed in the latest technology, as these can often make a big difference in their success.

6. How Familiar Are You with the Area?

A good realtor should be intimately familiar with the neighborhoods where you're looking to buy or sell a home. Ask them about their experience working in that particular market and what they think of the current housing climate.

7. Do You Have Any Other Clients I Could Talk To?

One of the best ways to get a feel for whether or not a realtor is the right fit is to speak with their past clients. Ask the realtor if they have any references you could speak to and see what their experiences were like working with them.

Generation X (born between 1965 and 1979) makes up the greatest number of homebuyers in the United States. So, if you are a member of Gen X or any other generation and are planning to purchase or sell a home in the near future, it is important that you do your research before selecting a realtor. Ask around and interview several candidates before making your decision. The questions above will help get you started.