Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments of your life, so it’s crucial to choose the right real estate agent. A real estate agent can guide you to the perfect home, negotiate a great deal, and ensure the entire process runs smoothly. But how do you know you’re hiring the right one? The key is asking the right questions before making your decision. In this blog, we’ll explore the questions to ask a real estate agent that will help you find the best fit for your needs and ensure a successful home-buying experience. Here are the top 10 questions you must ask before buying a home:
1. Are you a Realtor or just a real estate agent?
This question might seem trivial, but it’s important. Not all agents are Realtors. Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and are required to adhere to a strict code of ethics. This distinction can give you peace of mind knowing your real estate agent is held to high standards of conduct. When considering questions to ask a real estate agent, always choose a Realtor when possible—ethics really do matter when you’re buying a home.
2. What services do you offer?
It’s important to clarify what services are included with the real estate agent. Will they assist with property showings, market analysis, negotiating the best price, and providing referrals for home repairs or inspections? When considering questions to ask a real estate agent, some agents go above and beyond, supporting you through every step of the buying process, while others may only help with finding listings and submitting offers. Make sure you understand exactly what services you’re receiving.
3. How familiar are you with the local market?
Market knowledge is vital. Sure, your agent must be licensed in your state, but local expertise can make a huge difference in your home-buying experience. One of the important questions to ask a real estate agent is whether they know the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and potential pitfalls of specific areas. If you’re looking in a particular city, such as Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky, it’s best to hire someone who has lived and worked in the area for years and understands the market dynamics.
4. How do you prefer to communicate?
Good communication is key to a successful working relationship. Questions to ask a real estate agent might include how they prefer to communicate. Whether you prefer text messages, phone calls, or emails, your agent should adapt to your communication style. Make sure you’re on the same page about how often you expect updates and how quickly you want responses. The smoother the communication, the easier the process will be.
5. Can you provide references or reviews?
Reputable agents should have no problem providing references from past clients. Online reviews can offer helpful insights into how well an agent performs, but personal references are a great way to get an honest opinion. If an agent hesitates to provide references, it could be a red flag. Additionally, ask how many deals the agent has closed in the past year—this will give you an idea of their experience and success rate.
6. How do you handle multiple clients?
A busy agent can be a good sign—they’re likely well-regarded and trusted by clients. But if they’re juggling multiple clients, you want to make sure your needs won’t be neglected. Ask how they prioritize their clients and whether they have a team to help manage their workload. Agents who work as part of a team often have more resources, ensuring you get the attention you deserve.
7. What’s your fee structure, and how do I pay you?
Most real estate agents are paid on commission, but it’s crucial to clarify how they’re compensated before you get too far into the process. In some areas, sellers pay the buyer’s agent, but this can vary. With recent law changes, you’ll now sign a buyer agreement up front, which will specify how your agent gets paid. Be sure you understand all potential fees involved, including if the seller offers a commission that doesn’t meet your agent’s expectations.
8. How do you help with offers and negotiations?
Negotiating is one of the most important aspects of buying a home. A great agent can save you thousands of dollars through skilled negotiations. Ask your agent how they plan to help with submitting offers, negotiating the price, and securing repairs after an inspection. Strong negotiation skills can be the difference between landing your dream home and losing out to another buyer.
9. What will be included in our written buyer agreement?
Once you’ve decided to work with an agent, you’ll sign a written buyer agreement that outlines the scope of the services they’ll provide and the terms of compensation. While these agreements are fully negotiable, they are meant to clarify your expectations. Take time to review the contract and ensure that it accurately reflects your needs and understanding of the agent’s role in your home-buying journey.
10. What happens if I’m unhappy with your service?
No one wants to think about things going wrong, but it’s important to know your options if things aren’t working out. Ask the agent upfront what their process is if you’re dissatisfied with their services. If the relationship turns sour, can you terminate the agreement without penalties? A trustworthy agent will prioritize your satisfaction and should be willing to part ways if necessary.
How We Can Help You
The right agent can make all the difference in the home-buying process, so it’s essential to choose someone who understands your needs, communicates effectively, and has the experience to guide you successfully. Asking these 10 questions will help you find an agent who is the perfect fit for you and your goals. Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, doing your due diligence up front can save you from a lot of headaches down the road. If you’re looking for an experienced real estate agent in Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky. Book a free consultation today with me, or you can reach me at info@teamsztanyo.com or call and text 513-813-6293. I’d love to help you find your dream home.