If you have decided to sell your home, and you’re looking for a REALTOR® here are questions to help you decide who will best fit your needs.
- How long have you been a REALTOR®?
A new REALTOR® can do a wonderful job and will have up-to-sale training. Those in the business longer bring practical experience to the table. - What is your average list-to-sales ratio?
A good REALTOR® should hold a track record for how many properties they have listed compared to how many they have sold within a given time period. In a good market, there would be about six sales for every 10 listings. In a poor market, there would be about four sales for every 10 listings. - How will your marketing plan meet my needs?
Specifically, how will you sell my home? Where and how often will you advertise? Do you have sample flyer, advertisements, and web copy? - Will you provide references?
Ask if you can talk to past clients. Then follow up and talk to them. - What separates you from your competition?
Key phrases to listen for: assertive, available by phone or e-mail, analytical, able to maintain a good sense of humour under trying circumstances. - May I review documents that I will be asked to sign?
A good REALTOR® makes forms available to you before you are required to sign them. Ask to see agency disclosure, listing agreement, seller disclosure form. - How will you help me find other professionals?
Ask for a written list of referring vendors. Get an explanation if you see the term “affiliated”. It could mean the REALTOR® is getting compensation from vendors. - How much do you charge?
You don’t have to ask if the fee is negotiable, since all real estate fees are negotiated. - What kind of guarantee do you offer?
If you sign a listing agreement with the REALTOR® and later find that you are unhappy with the arrangement, will the REALTOR® let you cancel the agreement? - What haven’t I asked you that I need to know?
Pay close attention to how the REALTOR® answers this question, because there is always something you need to know.