When it comes to buying or selling a home, choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference, which is why it's important to ask the right questions when interviewing potential agents. With so many agents out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin, so to help you get started we’ve compiled a few questions we recommend asking to begin your search.

Which locations around town fall into your expertise?

Determining if an agent works, lives, or plays in the areas you’re interested in is an important first step. An agent that is knowledgeable about the areas you would like to move to will help make the process that much easier, as they can provide area references and detailed information about specific places, such as neighborhoods and schools, or a nice dinner recommendation.

How will we stay in contact during this process, and how often?

Aligning on communication style, frequency, and expectations upfront is important. Some follow-up questions you may want to ask are “How many clients do you normally have?” and “What does your general availability look like?” to ensure your expectations and communication styles align.

What makes you stand out against other agents?

Your agent should want to stand out from the crowd. Going above and beyond for all clients should be their top priority, as nobody wants to feel like they’re on the back-burner. They will be walking you through what is likely one of the biggest transactions of your life, and your agent should make it known that you are a priority. Additionally, your agent should be happy to provide you with verified past client testimonials, which all Helen Adams Realty agents do.

Do you have recommended vendors to help with any repairs or updates?

Asking what the agent's "arsenal" of vendors looks like is a great way to plan ahead for buyers and sellers. Do they have trusted vendors they can recommend to you like plumbers, electricians, handymen, and landscapers? Doing so can help you gauge their contacts and community relationships.

For Sellers:

How will you market my home?

In order to get your home sold, your agent will need to market the listing. Different firms and agents go about this in different ways, but at Helen Adams Realty your agent will have access to a full service, in-house marketing and technology department to help them with everything from high-quality print brochures and postcards to digital ad spaces with local publications and a website just for your home.

How would you recommend I get my home ready to list? 

Asking your agent for their recommendations and opinion is important, and they should be willing to be honest with you about what they are seeing. Sometimes even small improvements can dramatically increase your selling opportunities and value of your home, such as paint touch ups or minor appliance upgrades. Occasionally though, bigger projects are needed and you may not want to come out of pocket for expenses. If this is the case, your Helen Adams Realty agent may bring up our Market Ready program, which you can learn more about here.

For Buyers:

Note: if you’re looking to buy, also check out 10 Questions to Ask When Buying a House!

How will you determine what homes may match my wants and needs?

Asking an agent that you’re interviewing how they will determine and track your wants and needs is important to ensure they are finding the right homes to share with you. Your preferences may also change over time, which is something your agent should take into consideration and adapt to throughout the process.

How can I best prepare for buying a home in the current market?

Based on the current market, your price point, area of interest, and personal preferences your agent will be able to educate you on what you can expect out of the home buying process. In any instance, getting pre-approved by a lender so that you can understand your buying power and be prepared in the instance of a quick offer is a great place to start. A great agent will be able to recommend a reputable lender, or two, and talk you through the market conditions so you can be ready to make an offer mentally and financially when the perfect home for you comes along.

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or just have questions to ask, our agents are here to help. In addition to our stellar agents, Helen Adams Realty also offers our HOMEsolutions program for buyers and sellers alike. If you're in need of an agent, give us a call or fill out this form and you’ll be matched with an agent that fits your needs!