10 Smart Questions to Ask When Hiring a Real Estate Agent
Choosing the right real estate agent can make or break your home buying or selling experience. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned seller, or relocating, the agent you hire should be more than just someone with a license—they should be a skilled negotiator, market expert, and trusted advisor.
To help you make the best choice, here are 10 essential questions to ask when hiring a real estate agent, plus what to listen for in their answers.
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How long have you been a real estate agent?
Why it matters: Experience counts. An agent with several years in the business has likely handled various market conditions and complex transactions.
What to listen for:
- At least 2–5 years of active experience
- Local expertise in your target area
- Ongoing professional development
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Are you a full-time or part-time agent?
Why it matters: A full-time agent is typically more available, more committed, and has better insight into the current market.
What to listen for:
Full-time status and availability that matches your schedule—especially if you’re in a competitive market.
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How many buyers or sellers are you currently working with?
Why it matters: Too few clients could be a red flag—but too many might mean they’re spread too thin to give you personal attention.
What to listen for:
A manageable number of active clients and clear communication systems in place (e.g., support staff, transaction coordinators).
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Can you provide references or recent client testimonials?
Why it matters: Past performance is often the best predictor of future success.
What to listen for:
Positive reviews, repeat clients, and willingness to share references. Bonus: check their online reviews on Google or Zillow. You can see all of my REVIEWS HERE
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What’s your experience in this neighborhood or price range?
Why it matters: Local market knowledge is critical. You want someone who understands property values, school districts, and buyer trends in your area.
What to listen for:
Familiarity with recent sales, average days on market, and neighborhood-specific insights.
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How do you plan to market my home (for sellers)?
Why it matters: A strong marketing strategy can mean a quicker sale and a higher price.
What to listen for:
- Professional photography and staging
- Online listings on MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, etc.
- Social media, email campaigns, open houses
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How will you help me compete in today’s market (for buyers)?
Why it matters: In a competitive market, you need more than just an agent—you need a strategist.
What to listen for:
- Guidance on strong offers
- Tactics for bidding wars
- Connections to off-market listings
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How will we communicate—and how often?
Why it matters: Clear communication prevents frustration and delays.
What to listen for:
Agents should communicate in your preferred format (text, email, phone) and provide regular updates. Ask if they respond evenings and weekends.
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What’s your commission structure?
Why it matters: Understanding how agents are paid helps you know what to expect at closing.
What to listen for:
Typical commissions range from 2–4% and are negotiable. Make sure all fees are explained upfront and how your Realtor® will negotiate on your behalf to get you the best price and best terms.
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What happens if I’m not happy with your service?
Why it matters: It’s important to know if and how you can exit the agreement if things don’t go as planned.
What to listen for:
A clear cancellation policy and an agent who’s confident enough in their service to let you walk away if needed.
Bonus Tip: Ask for a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
Whether you’re buying or selling, a CMA shows you how your home—or homes you’re interested in—compare to similar recent sales. A good agent should offer this without hesitation.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your buying or selling journey. Asking the right questions upfront ensures you’re working with someone who has the experience, knowledge, and dedication to guide you successfully.
Don’t settle for the first agent you meet—interview at least two or three before making a decision.
Looking to buy or sell with confidence?
Let’s connect! I’m happy to answer these questions—and more—so you can feel confident every step of the way.
📞 Schedule a free consultation today and let’s talk strategy.
860-864-0209
chrismaynard@billheenan.net
chrismaynardrealestate.com
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