Lana Helena
Introduction
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—so why not go into it with all the right questions? Your real estate agent should be your guide, your marketer, and your negotiator all wrapped into one. But before you hire them, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure they’re up to the task. These eight key questions will help you determine if an agent is the right fit and boost your chances of a quick, profitable sale.
Ready to list? Start with this helpful checklist.
1. How Long Have You Been Working in Real Estate?
Why Experience Matters
Think of your agent like a pilot—you don’t want a rookie flying the plane, right? A seasoned agent will have navigated multiple market cycles, tricky negotiations, and countless showings. They’ve seen what works and what doesn’t.
Understanding Local Market Nuances
It’s not just about years of experience—it’s about experience in your area. A hyperlocal agent understands pricing trends, buyer behavior, and neighborhood dynamics. This helps in getting top dollar for your home.
Want insight into current market shifts? Check out local market trends here.
2. What’s Your Marketing Strategy for My Home?
Online and Offline Marketing Tactics
A good marketing plan is like a recipe—you need the right ingredients to attract buyers. Ask how your agent plans to use flyers, open houses, MLS listings, and networking.
Social Media and Digital Exposure
Is your agent fluent in digital marketing? They should be leveraging Facebook ads, Instagram stories, virtual tours, and even TikTok to cast a wide net. Online exposure = more buyers = better offers.
Explore more home selling tips here.
3. How Will You Price My Home?
The Importance of Comparative Market Analysis
Overpricing is the silent killer of home sales. Make sure your agent uses a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to find the sweet spot—competitive yet profitable.
Avoiding Overpricing Pitfalls
An honest agent won’t flatter you with unrealistic numbers. They’ll show you data and explain why your home is worth what it is—backed by facts, not feelings.
Need the latest on pricing trends? Bookmark this page.
4. What Should I Do to Prepare My Home for Sale?
Home Staging Tips
Buyers shop with their eyes first. Ask your agent if they provide or recommend staging services. A staged home sells faster and often above asking price.
Here are some handy staging tips that could make your property pop.
Minor Repairs and Improvements
From repainting walls to fixing leaky faucets, small fixes go a long way. Your agent should walk you through a pre-listing punch list that’ll maximize your ROI.
Learn more homeowner tips here.
5. How Will Showings Be Handled?
Scheduling and Flexibility
Showings can be a logistical nightmare. Your agent should use a system that makes scheduling easy and minimizes interruptions to your daily life.
Feedback Collection and Follow-up
Every showing should offer a learning opportunity. Great agents follow up with buyers’ agents to gather feedback and adjust the strategy as needed.
Thinking of moving soon? Peek at these new home insights.
6. What’s Your Commission Fee and Are There Any Other Costs?
Breaking Down the Fees
Commission is typically 5-6%, split between buyer and seller agents. Ask exactly what’s included—professional photography, staging, advertising?
Understanding Your ROI
A cheaper agent isn’t always better. A great agent might cost more upfront but nets you more in the end. It’s all about value over cost.
For more on this, visit the home financing section.
7. How Do You Handle Offers and Negotiations?
Communication is Key
Time kills deals. Your agent should be proactive and responsive when offers come in. Delays can make buyers walk.
Strategic Negotiation Tactics
From counteroffers to closing concessions, your agent should be a skilled negotiator who fights for your best interests without scaring off buyers.
Get expert-level selling advice here.
8. Can You Provide References From Past Clients?
Why Testimonials Matter
Word of mouth is gold. Ask for contact info of previous sellers. Happy clients are a great sign you’ve got the right agent.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
If an agent hesitates or dodges this request, run. Transparency builds trust—and trust sells homes.
For more on choosing a real estate agent, see the real estate tag.
Bonus Tip: Ask About Local Market Trends
Know When to Sell
Timing the market can make or break your profit. Your agent should provide insight on seasonality, buyer demand, and economic conditions.
Timing the Market
Don’t just rely on Zillow or Redfin. Trust your local expert—and keep up with real estate market trends here.
Conclusion
Selling your home doesn’t have to feel like rocket science. With the right agent—and the right questions—you’ll be in control from start to finish. From pricing strategies to digital marketing and negotiation skills, your agent should be your biggest asset. Use these 8 questions to vet them thoroughly and increase your odds of a smooth, stress-free sale.
Looking for more home-selling resources? Head over to List Your Home With Lana for expert insights and tools.
FAQs
1. What should I avoid saying to a real estate agent?
Avoid revealing your bottom line too early. Keep some cards close to your chest so your agent can negotiate better.
2. How do I know if my home is priced right?
Your agent should provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and explain how your price compares to similar homes.
3. Should I stage my home before listing it?
Yes! Staging can help your home sell faster and for a higher price. Many agents include staging advice or services.
4. What’s a fair commission rate for a real estate agent?
A typical rate is 5-6% of the sale price. Ask your agent what services are included before agreeing.
5. How long does it usually take to sell a home?
It varies by market, but well-priced, well-marketed homes often sell within 30-60 days.
6. Can I sell my home while buying another?
Absolutely! Many homeowners do both simultaneously. Here are tips for first-time buyers if you’re purchasing again.
7. What if I need to sell quickly?
Speedy sales require smart pricing, staging, and aggressive marketing. Learn more about quick sale strategies here.