Best Questions to Ask When Hiring a Real Estate Agent                       

There’s no two ways about it: Buying or selling your house is a big deal. That’s why hiring the RIGHT real estate agent is a big deal. So how do you do it? Let the following questions guide you to a confident decision! 

 
“How much experience do you have as an agent?” 

A real estate agent’s experience—especially if he or she has been an agent for years—offers great benefits to you as a buyer or seller. He or she will be able to anticipate problems before they arise, understand proven-effective negotiation strategies, have invaluable relationships with other professionals, etc. The “package” of their experience typically means a “package” of benefits for you. 

“Do you work part-time or full-time as an agent?” 

Someone who works full-time as a real estate agent is more likely to be able to focus on you more fully. But you shouldn’t necessarily rule out part-time agents. Some are real go-getters who make up for their part-time status with great passion and focus. 

“Do you work with buyers or sellers—or both?” 

You’ll discover that many real estate agents work as either buyer-specialists or seller-specialists. While that means they have expertise in that area—which can be extremely valuable to you—it also can be helpful to find an agent who does both, because he or she can offer valuable insights from both sides of the process. 

 
“How many clients do you currently have?” 

Ideally, you want to find a real estate agent who doesn’t have too many—or too few—current clients. Too many clients could mean you won’t get the attention you deserve; too few could be a warning signal. 

 
“Have you helped buyers find homes in this specific area?” 

If you are a buyer, you need a real estate agent who is knowledgeable about the specific area in which you want to live. Communities can be quite distinct regarding the types of homes people want, what types sell there, etc. Your real estate agent should be on top of all this. 

“Have you helped buyers / sellers in my price range?” 

The price of a home can dramatically alter the way it’s marketed, and sometimes change the way an agent views it. An agent specializing in listings of, say, more than $750,000 could devote less time to you if your selling or buying level is more in the $300,000 range. Make sure your agent is a good fit for you “price-wise.” 

“Do you have references?” 

You need to vet a real estate agent exactly as you would any other professional. He or she should be able to refer you to satisfied clients and, if the agent can’t, it could be a huge red flag. Prepare a list of questions to ask the agent’s other clients, to make sure the agent will deliver the satisfying, life-changing experience you are looking for. 

* *     * 

When you wish to buy your dream home in Maine … sell one … or build one … we’re always here to help. Contact us today! 
 
About Maine Source Homes & Realty 
Maine Source Homes & Realty is dedicated to helping you find your perfect home-ownership solution. Whether you wish to buy, sell, or build a home, Maine Source Homes & Realty invites you to benefit from our 53 years of trustworthy experience and expertise.