Questions to Ask Your Listing Agent

Do you work full time or part time as a real estate agent?
     A full time agent is usually preferable to a part time agent.

Is your license in good standing?
     Avoid working with an agent whose license is not good standing.  You can check the state licensing board for this information.

Are you also a broker and/or a Realtor?
     Brokers have more stringent licensing requirements and responsibilities.  Realtors are voluntary members of the National Association of Realtors trade group and must abide by its code of ethics.

Kevin: I have been a Realtor for almost 20 years.  I was formally a licensed real estate broker and worked in office management, but now choose to focus solely on real estate sales.

How many years of experience do you have?
     Work with an experienced agent with a solid track record of sales in your area.

How would you assess the current market for selling?
     A good agent will give an unbiased evaluation of the state of the market, and will know how to get the best price for your home.

How long have you sold homes in this area?
     Agents who specialize in your area are more likely to deliver a larger number of potential buyers to your door.

How many other clients (sellers and buyers) do you represent?
     You want an agent who can give you as much time as you need.  Keep in mind, however, that the busiest agents are often the most efficient.

Will you give a list of homes you sold in the last 12 months?
     This list should contain addresses, property types, names of sellers or buyers, list prices, sale dates and sale prices.

Can you give me a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) of recent sales in the area and homes currently on the market?
     This should contain listings and sales prices for recently sold homes as well as sales prices and the listing date of homes currently for sale.  I also should include detailed property descriptions (such as square footage and number of bedrooms and baths)

Where will you advertise my home for sale to attract buyers?
     An agent should provide you with a comprehensive list of marketing activities which will be accomplished to sell your home in a timely fashion.  Due to the increasing popularity of the internet it is your advantage that your agent has a strong internet presence.