Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent Before Signing a Contract

Thinking about hiring a real estate agent? Great decision. But before you dive in, let’s make sure you’re asking the right questions. 

Choosing the right agent can save you time, money, and stress. The wrong one? Well, let’s just say it could turn your dream home search into a nightmare. So today, we’ll go over the top questions you should ask—and why they matter. 

Why It’s Important to Ask Questions 

Picking a real estate agent is like picking a partner for a big project. You need someone who knows their stuff, communicates well, and has your back. The stakes? Pretty high. After all, we’re talking about your future home (or a big sale). 

A good agent: 

• Knows the local market inside and out. 
• Helps you avoid common pitfalls. 
• Negotiate deals in your favor. 

But not every agent is a perfect fit. Asking questions helps you find the right one. 

The Top Questions to Ask 

Here’s your cheat sheet for interviewing agents: 

1. What’s Your Experience in This Market? 

Why it matters: Real estate is local. An agent who knows your area can spot trends, price homes accurately, and find hidden gems. 

Follow-up questions: 

• How many years have you worked in this market? 
• Have you handled properties in [specific neighborhood] or [property type]?

2. How Do You Communicate with Clients? 

Why it matters: Miscommunication can lead to missed opportunities. 

Things to clarify: 

• Preferred methods: Do they text, call, or email? 
• Frequency: How often will you get updates? Daily? Weekly? 
• Accessibility: Are they available after hours or on weekends? 

3. What Is Your Fee Structure? 

Why it matters: You don’t want surprises when it’s time to pay. 

Key points to cover: 

• Commission: What percentage do they take? 
• Extras: Are there additional fees for staging, marketing, or other services? ● What’s included: Make sure you know what you’re getting for your money. 

4. Can You Provide References? 

Why it matters: Hearing from past clients can give you insight into the agent’s work ethic and results. Questions for references: 

• How was your overall experience? 
• Did the agent communicate effectively? 
• Would you work with them again? 

5. What’s Your Strategy for Buying/Selling? 

Why it matters: A solid strategy shows they’re not just winging it. 

For buyers: 

• How do you find the best deals? 
• Do you have connections with lenders or inspectors? 

For sellers: 

• How will you market my property? 
• What’s your approach to pricing and negotiation?

What to Look for in Their Answers 

As you listen to their responses, pay attention to: 

• Transparency: Are they open about fees, challenges, and processes? 
• Knowledge: Do they know the local market like the back of their hand? 
• Enthusiasm: Are they genuinely interested in helping you? 

Red flags include vague answers, overpromising, or a lack of interest in your specific needs. 

Mistakes to Avoid When Interviewing Agents 

Don’t fall into these traps: 

• Accepting vague answers: Push for specifics. 
• Skipping follow-up questions: Clarify anything that seems unclear. 
• Ignoring red flags: If they seem pushy or uninterested, trust your instincts. 

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent

Here’s a quick recap: 

• Meet with multiple agents before making your choice. 
• Use the questions above to dig deep into their expertise. 
• Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. 

The good news? Asking these questions will set you up for success. You’ll find someone who understands your goals and works tirelessly to achieve them. 

Conclusion 

Asking thoughtful questions can make all the difference in your real estate journey. So, don’t hold back. Be curious. Be thorough. And most importantly, find a real estate agent who feels like the perfect fit for you. 

Have questions or experiences to share? Drop them in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more homebuying tips, stick around—there’s plenty more to explore!