Interviewing a REALTOR®

To assist in making the decision on which agent to choose, here is a list of possible questions to ask the agent:

1. Where do you think the buyer for my home will be coming from?  Will it be a Move up Buyer (Upgrade), or a Renter (First Time Home Buyer)?
2. How will you market to this particular buyer?  What proactive steps will you perform to reach this specific targeted buyer other than the 5 P’s?  (Please see the 5 P’s listed below)
3. What do you do as an agent that is exceptional that sets you “above” the average Realtor in your area?  (Please do not quote me your company’s statistics, show me and tell me what you personally do to promote your listings.)
4. What could I do to improve the marketability of my home?
5. What is the biggest drawback to my home?  (Possible buyer objections), please be candid with me now so that I know what to expect.
6. Do you think that a buyer incentive is called for on my home?  What incentive would you recommend?

When you are interviewing agents, it is also to your advantage to select an agent who not ONLY performs the 5 P’s, but also have many of the following “proactive marketing strategies” such as:

• Market Expertise:

  Deeply understand local market conditions, recent sales data, and property values to accurately assess a property's worth. 

   

   
• Marketing Prowess:

  Utilize various marketing channels to reach potential buyers and sellers, including online listings, social media, and targeted advertising. 

   

   
• Networking:

  Build strong relationships with other agents, lenders, contractors, and community leaders to generate referrals. 

   

   
• Client Communication:

  Maintain open and transparent communication with clients throughout the entire transaction process. 

   

   
• Listing Presentation:

  Prepare compelling presentations to showcase a property's best features and attract buyers. 

   

   
• Negotiation Skills:

  Effectively negotiate offers and contracts to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients. 

   

   
• Home Inspection Presence:

  Actively participate in home inspections to identify potential issues and advocate for their client's interests. 

   

   
• Open Houses:

  Host open houses to expose properties to a wider pool of potential buyers. 

   

   
• Professional Development:

  Continuously update their knowledge about real estate laws, market trends, and new technologies. 

The “average” agent will do the 5 “P’s” on a listing property.  They will:

1. Put A For Sale Sign in Your Yard;
2. Put Your Home in the Multiple Listing Service;
3. Put Your Home in Advertising;
4. Put Your Home on Broker Caravan Tour; and,
5. Put Your Home on Public Open House.