“How many homes have you sold in my neighborhood?”
When listing your home it is always important to work with an agent that has experience selling or buying homes in your general area, if not directly in the neighborhood of your home. Agents with experience know what the houses in your area will sell for, and will get you the best value for your home and sell it in less time.
“What kind of a commission do you take?”
It’s important to remember that cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean better. The standard commission for real estate agents is around 3 percent. If they ask for more than that you may want to ask the agent why his/her rates higher than the standard. If they go lower you may want to ask them why they don’t cost as much as the standard agent, as not all agents offer the same services.
Which takes us to....
“Other than helping me sell my home, what additional services do you offer?”
Real estate agents offer many services, home warranties, professional photographers, videos with aerial footage and personal property websites are just a few of the many services that an agent can offer to help sell your house in less time for more money. Make sure you know what your agent has to offer and how it will affect the selling of your home.
“How many non-traditional (short-sales, foreclosures) properties have you listed?”
Even if your house isn’t a short-sale or foreclosure it is beneficial to work with an agent that has had experience selling these types of homes because they are the ones that have experience working with the banks and the bureaucracy that is involved with complicated transactions. These are the agents who know what they are doing.
“Can I see reviews from your past clients?”
The best way of knowing about what it will be like to work with a particular agent is to hear from the people that worked with them in the past. Many listing sites like Zillow have review sections and special awards given to top agents. Take the time to compare the reviews on the agents you want and weigh the costs and benefits between them to help you find your perfect agent.