As a Realtor, one of the things I appreciate most is when home buyers and sellers come prepared with thoughtful questions. It shows me that they’re serious about making the right decisions and that they’ve put a lot of thought into what they need from an agent. If you’re in the process of choosing a Realtor, here are my top five questions to ask—questions that will help you gauge whether the agent you’re considering is the right fit for you.
1) How Long Have You Been a Realtor?
Why This Matters:
Experience is one of the most valuable assets a Realtor can offer. The longer an agent has been in the business, the more likely they’ve encountered a wide range of scenarios and challenges. This experience equips them with the knowledge and expertise to handle whatever comes your way during the home-buying process. It also allows them the time to cultivate industry relationships with other Realtors, the importance and value of those relationships can’t be understated, as well as other industry partners like top lenders, attorneys, home inspectors, and more.
What to Look For:
When you ask this question, listen not just for the number of years, but also for examples of how their experience has benefited past clients. An experienced Realtor can provide insights into market trends, negotiation strategies, and potential pitfalls that less seasoned agents might overlook.
2) What Educational Tools Do You Offer?
Why This Matters:
A great Realtor doesn’t just help you find a home—they also empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. Whether it’s through guides, market reports, videos, or specific tools and resources, an agent who prioritizes education is an agent who’s invested in your success.
What to Look For:
Ask about the resources they provide. Do they have a blog with articles about the home-buying process? Do they offer video tutorials or a home buyer boot camp? The best agents will have a range of educational tools at their disposal to ensure you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
3) Are You a Full-Time Realtor?
Why This Matters:
Real estate isn’t just a job—it’s a commitment. Full-time Realtors are often more dedicated and available, meaning they’re more likely to be fully invested in your search for the perfect home. A full-time agent can offer more flexibility in scheduling showings, responding to your questions, and keeping you updated on new listings.
What to Look For:
When you ask this question, you’re gauging the agent’s level of commitment. A full-time Realtor will likely have more time and resources to devote to your needs, which can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
4) What Organizational Systems Do You Have in Place?
Why This Matters:
Buying a home involves a lot of moving parts—there are documents to track, deadlines to meet, and communications to manage. An organized Realtor can make the difference between a smooth transaction and a stressful one. Ask about their systems for managing these tasks.
What to Look For:
A well-organized agent will have clear processes in place for communication, document management, and transaction tracking. For example, I use HighNote.ai to provide my clients with structured TO-DO lists and detailed Next Steps Guides. This ensures that you always know what’s happening and what needs to be done next, making the entire process more manageable.
5) Do You Work Alone or With a Team?
Why This Matters:
Understanding whether an agent works solo or as part of a team can give you insight into the level of service you’ll receive. While both solo agents and teams can provide excellent service, it’s important to know what to expect in terms of availability and support.
What to Look For:
If an agent works with a team, find out how tasks are divided and who you’ll be communicating with throughout the process. If they work alone, ask about their backup plan if they’re unavailable. The goal is to ensure you’ll have consistent, reliable support from start to finish.
Think It Through
When you’re buying a home, you’re not just purchasing a property—you’re entering into a relationship with your Realtor. By asking these questions, you’ll gain valuable insights into their experience, commitment, and the resources they bring to the table. Most importantly, you’ll find an agent who aligns with your needs and who will be a true partner in your home-buying journey.
So, come prepared with your questions—I’m ready to answer them and to show you why working with the right Realtor makes all the difference. Want to learn more about working with me? Take a Look!