10 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Realtor
Listing your home is a big deal — and choosing the right realtor is the single most important decision you’ll make in the process.
But here’s the thing: most homeowners don’t know what to ask. They rely on a friendly recommendation or whoever calls first. The truth? The right questions can tell you exactly who’s going to go the extra mile — and who’s just going to put a sign in your yard.
Here are 10 smart questions that will help you hire the right agent, the first time.
1. What’s Your Marketing Strategy — Specifically?
Every agent will say they’ll “market your home,” but what does that actually mean?
Look for a clear plan that includes professional photography, video, targeted online exposure, and a story-driven listing approach — not just “posting to MLS.”
2. How Well Do You Know This Area?
Local expertise goes beyond zip codes. An agent who understands your neighborhood’s buyer type, price velocity, and community draw can position your home more strategically — and negotiate with confidence.
3. How Will You Price My Home?
Pricing isn’t just math; it’s psychology. The best agents explain how they balance data, buyer behavior, and current demand — and how pricing can create momentum instead of sitting stale.
4. How Do You Communicate During the Process?
Selling can feel like a rollercoaster without the right rhythm. Ask how your agent updates clients — whether it’s weekly reports, text check-ins, or scheduled calls. Consistency builds trust.
5. What’s Your Track Record?
Ask about average days on market, list-to-sale ratio, and repeat clients. A great agent won’t shy away from data — they’ll proudly share results and client stories.
6. What’s Your Plan for Showings and Privacy?
Safety and privacy matter. The best agents have clear systems for screening buyers, managing showings, and protecting valuables or personal information during the process.
7. How Do You Handle Offers and Negotiations?
Strong negotiators protect your bottom line. Look for someone who explains how they handle multiple offers, contingencies, and appraisal gaps — not just someone who “hopes for the best.”
8. Who Handles the Details Once My Home Is Under Contract?
Contracts are only half the battle. Ask whether your agent has transaction support, vendor relationships, and a system for inspections and timelines.
9. What Happens If My Home Doesn’t Sell Right Away?
This question separates pros from part-timers. A strong agent will explain their re-marketing strategy, including when and how they adjust photos, pricing, or positioning to reignite buyer interest.
10. What’s Your Compensation Structure — and What’s Included?
Transparency builds trust. Make sure you understand what’s covered in your agent’s fee — and how their marketing investment compares to their competitors’.
The best agents welcome tough questions — because they know the right answers set them apart.
If you’d like to see how my marketing plan, pricing strategy, and client experience compare to what most agents offer, I’d be happy to share exactly how I do things differently.
Because the right agent doesn’t just list your home — they lead the process.
