Selecting the right real estate agent, either you are buying or selling a property. Sorting the wheat from the chaff can be difficult especially if you are new to working with real estate agents. It all starts with asking the appropriate questions if you are looking for a real estate agent to help you purchase or sell the property.
Contacting multiple agents to get a sense of how they work and see if they fit what you are looking for is the best approach to decide. When you meet with estate agents, here is a list of questions to ask.
How long have you been in real estate?
Given that your property is likely your most valuable asset, you’ll want someone with considerable expertise and knowledge of the industry to ensure that all essential details are handled correctly. Therefore, someone with knowledge of the industry and an understanding of the market will be the ideal candidate for the position.
Do you have any customer testimonials or reviews?
A reputable real estate agent will have satisfied prior clients who will gladly share their positive experiences with you. Before selling a property, inquire about testimonials or look for reviews on sites.
Is there anyone else in your team?
Agents that work as part of a larger team may transfer the sale to someone else. So make you know who you’ll be working with and what each team member’s function is from the start.
In the last year, how many properties have you sold?
Inquire about the kind of properties they’ve sold in the last year and where they’re located. They should have sold houses similar to yours in terms of price, style, and location.
Knowing this might help you determine if they have a suitable buyer database and the ability to advertise your property effectively. In addition, inquiring about the length of time other properties were on the market might give you an indication of how long it will take your property to sell.
In what price ranges did they fall?
Knowing how many other properties in an agent’s portfolio have sold. It may help you estimate how much yours may sell. However, keep in mind that costs vary based on the property and its location, so it’s better to compare similar properties.
What does your charge include?
Marketing, photography, signs, inspections, and floorplans may not be included as standard services in every real estate agent’s price structure. As a result, some agents demand additional costs on top of their commission for these services, which can rapidly add up. That’s why it’s crucial to understand what’s included upfront.
Look for a company that charges a flat cost rather than a portion of the sale price. All of the following services are included in one flat charge with Upside, making your budget easier to manage and allowing you to obtain more money from the sale of your house.
Is there anything else I should factor into my budget?
If an agent’s costs don’t include marketing, signs, photography, or floorplans, you’ll almost certainly have to pay extra.
How much do you think I should ask for my item?
It is vital to request a selling price based on an agent’s expertise in the region and pricing. In addition, they should be able to demonstrate why they came to this conclusion based on comparable facts.
When the realtor gives you an estimate for the worth of your property, make sure you ask for proof to back it up. Comparable properties, sales prices in your neighborhood over the previous six months, and overall property market patterns should all be used as proof.
What can I do to raise the value of my home?
Before selling a property, a qualified real estate agent can advise on how to increase the possible sale price. Making minor repairs and upgrades before selling, for example, may be worth the cost to increase the sale price of your home.
Is now the right time to sell?
In your location, your realtor should be able to advise you when the best time to sell is. How hot or cold it gets, the area of the sun to maximize natural light, and what seasons buyers in your region typically search for properties are all things to consider.