When buying or selling a home, it makes a difference to have the right real estate agent by your side. The client-agent relationship is important, as real estate transactions are personal, complex, and potentially, overwhelming. With many agents to choose from, selecting the one that’s right for you might seem like a daunting task. To help, we’ve compiled a few questions we recommend asking when interviewing agents.
 

STARTING YOUR SEARCH

Which areas and neighborhoods around town fall into your expertise?

An important first step in choosing an agent is finding out if they work, live, or play in the areas of town you call home, or as a buyer, want to call home. An agent with knowledge in your area will help make the process that much smoother. Their expertise and local insight will provide you with valuable, detailed information on comparable sales, neighborhoods, schools, dining, and more.

How will we stay in contact during this process?

Agreeing on preferred communication methods and frequency with an agent is vital. By setting expectations upfront, you and the agent can agree that the relationship is a good fit. Some additional questions that might follow this are “How many clients do you normally have?” and “What does your general availability look like?”

What makes you stand out from other agents?

Your agent should strive to stand out among their peers. The expectation should be that they go above and beyond for all of their clients; no one wants to feel like they’re forgotten. Your agent should be a partner, prioritizing your needs and communicating efficiently, as they walk you through one of the biggest transactions of your life. Ask any agents you interview for verified testimonials from past clients; they should be eager to provide reviews. Read more about what sets Helen Adams Realty agents apart from others. 

Do you have recommended vendors to help with needed repairs or updates?

A knowledgeable agent will have connections to vendor contacts throughout the area, ready to help. You’ll want them to know who to call when you need a recommendation - including electricians, plumbers, handymen, and landscapers. 

How do you stay informed about current market trends?

A proactive and effective real estate agent should be connected and in the know. They are up-to-date on local market statistics, mortgage rates, and trending activities in the market. They have a comprehensive understanding of real estate through a combination of continuing education, market research, networking, industry publications, collaboration with experts, and more. 

FOR SELLERS

How will you market my home?

Marketing is a vital part of getting your home sold. Different real estate firms and agents have various methods for doing so. At Helen Adams Realty, your agent will have access to a full-service, in-house marketing and technology department to help them with everything from listing syndication, high-quality printed materials, digital ads, a dedicated property website, weekly reports to keep you informed on your property, and more - just for your home! 

How would you recommend I get my home ready to list? 

As you discuss listing your home with an agent, ask them for their opinion on your home and recommendations for listing preparations. They should be willing to be open and honest with what they see Even small improvements, like paint touch-ups or minor appliance upgrades, can make a big impact on your home’s appeal to buyers, increasing your selling opportunities and the value of your home. If improvement projects are recommended to prepare your home for sale, Helen Adams Realty’s Market Ready program allows the opportunity to make upgrades without any upfront expenses or fees.

FOR BUYERS

How will you determine which homes may match my wants and needs? 

Your criteria for a home may change throughout the home search, and your agent should be willing and able to adapt to these changes. Asking an agent how they will determine and track your preferences is vital to ensure they identify homes that are a potential good fit. 

How can I best prepare to purchase a home in today’s market? 

Your agent should educate you on what to expect throughout the home-buying process. The flow and timeline are impacted by many factors, including the current market, your price point, and the area of interest for your home search. 

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the best first step to understanding your buying power, and allows you to be prepared in case you need to make a quick offer on a home. A great agent will have a trusted lender recommendation or two so that you can truly be prepared to begin your house hunt. 

Note: if you’re looking to buy, also check out 10 Questions to Ask When Buying a House!

Whether you’re looking to make a move or just have questions about the market, our agents are here to help! Helen Adams Realty also offers buyer and seller solutions through our HOMEsolutions program. If you’re searching for an agent, give us a call or fill out this form to be matched with an agent that fits your specific needs.