Find an Agent
How long have you been in the business?
Agents come with differing levels of experience. You will want to know how long they have been in the real estate industry, but also what else they bring to the table that might benefit you as a seller and as a buyer. You are more interested in the number of transactions they have been involved in over the years that they have been licensed. A licensed Realtor who is doing two transactions a years but has been licensed for ten years would bring up questions. This is where you would like to see references.
Also consider the difference between a part-time real estate agent who sells a few properties for friends and relatives and someone who treats it as a full-time business venture. If your Realtor is at their second job, they may not be available to tend to the needs of your transaction.
How quickly does the candidate respond to your needs?
Although no one can be available 24/7, you should be able to expect a response to your calls and questions in a timely manner. Your Realtor should set the expectation for a returned call, text, email or voice mail. Be reasonable in your request, but it is also reasonable to expect a call back within a 24 hour period for less important matters.
Each Realtor has a method of communication that they prefer, make sure that it is one that you are comfortable with. If your Realtor of choice is someone who prefers to text and this is not in your comfort zone, you will want to discuss the best means of communication that works for both of you.
What geographic areas and types of properties do you handle?
Your Realtors' knowledge of the area you are buying or selling in can be crucial to your transaction. Although the internet takes us a long way to knowledge, there are specifics that just cannot be found in public information. If you are searching for a family friendly neighborhood and you have children, your local agent is likely to know locations of parks, schools, and churches in the area.
It may also be wise to consider an agent who understands that nature of your transaction. If you are being relocated to the area and really have no network for referral, your local agent can hook you up with many of the needs that your family will have in settling to a new area.
Can you share references?
In addition to interviewing potential agents, talk to their buyers or sellers. Ask your Realtor for contacts for the last 3-5 transactions. A quick call to the those people is worth more than any other information you can gather. A good Realtor will have a list ready and are pleased to provide it to you.
What will it cost me to sell this property or purchase this home?
Buyers often don’t pay commission directly, but sellers often do and the costs can vary from agent to agent. For sellers who worry that bringing up the commission topic will be uncomfortable, simply ask "What will it cost me to sell this property?" Also ask for a breakdown of estimated closing costs. Your bottom line is the most important number in the transaction. Your Realtor should have the tools to estimate your net within a few hundred dollars.
Buyers will need a reference to a good lender. Your Realtor will have a preferred list of providers. That lender will be able to provide you with your Pre-Approval. You will also be provided with the type of loan, and the amount that you will need to close your transaction. Your Realtor will need that information to negotiate on your behalf.