Choosing a real estate agent can be an incredibly long process, especially if you always get stumped on what questions you should be asking. If you don’t go into your initial meeting prepared, then you might end up partnering with an agent who isn’t the right fit for your needs. Compass realty has a wide range of agents to choose from, making it even easier to find a great match. But what exactly should you ask them?
This blog is here to help with 5 important questions you should definitely have on your list. If there are more things you need to know, don’t worry, you can always delve deeper into certain topics, but having a starting point will allow the conversation to flow naturally. And don’t forget, if your real estate agent is struggling to answer any of these, that could be a red flag.
- What kind of buyers do you usually work with?
Your real estate agent’s experience is incredibly important. If an agent is used to working with buyers with very different needs to your own, you might get your wires crossed during negotiations. Try to find an agent who is used to helping people similar to yourself find their dream home, as you’ll be more likely to have an instant, intuitive connection with them.
- Do you work individually or are you part of a wider team?
An individual agent isn’t necessarily better than a team and vice versa, but it’s good to know what you’re getting into. Some people prefer having a more intimate buying process with 1-on-1 contact with their Real Estate agent, while others prefer the efficiency of getting all of the admin done through assistants. It’s always good to know ahead of time who you’ll be working with either way.
- What can I expect the buying process to look like?
One of the most overwhelming things about buying a house is not knowing what’s coming next, so asking about the steps involved in the buying process can help you feel more confident. You might not need a lot of detail in the early stages, but this question can give you a better idea of estimated timelines too.
- What does your typical availability look like?
If you work a 9-5 job, you might need your real estate agent to be available early in the morning or later in the evenings. How flexible is your chosen agent and will they work around your schedule? This question is even more crucial if you have other commitments such as your family or children, as your schedule will be even busier.
- Do you specialize in a particular area?
Lots of real estate agents specialize in certain types of property, price brackets, or areas of the country. While most agents will have some flexibility, you need to be sure that yours is best suited to help you in your search. If their specialty lies in a different area, ask them to refer you to someone who can help you better.
