Before buying a home, it's crucial to consider the questions to ask your realtor. Did you know that 70% of real estate agents sold fewer than five homes last year? Even more shocking—50% sold less than one. Choosing the wrong agent could cost you thousands of dollars, wasted time, and a stressful experience.
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. It’s crucial to have an experienced, knowledgeable realtor by your side. But how do you separate the professionals from the part-timers? Before you commit, make sure you ask these questions to ask your realtor to find the best fit.
In this guide, we break down five must-ask questions to help you find the right agent to guide you through the home-buying process. Choosing a real estate agent isn’t just about credentials—it’s about finding someone who understands your needs, has proven experience, and can advocate for you throughout the buying journey.
Many homebuyers make the mistake of choosing an agent based solely on a recommendation from a friend or family member, without doing their own research. While referrals are valuable, it's essential to ensure the agent aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
Additionally, the right realtor should be able to guide you through the intricacies of financing, inspections, and legal considerations. A great agent isn’t just a salesperson—they’re your advocate, helping you navigate every step of the home-buying process.
1. How Many Transactions Have You Closed in the Last 12 Months?
Experience matters. But don’t assume that the agent with the most sales is automatically the best fit. Here’s what to look for:
- Recent Activity: Has the agent closed multiple deals in the past year?
- Buyer Representation: How many of those transactions were with buyers?
- Market Knowledge: Are they familiar with the trends, pricing, and competition in your target area?
An agent who actively closes deals is more in tune with current market trends, has strong negotiation skills, and understands pricing fluctuations. Working with an agent who only closes a handful of deals may mean they aren’t as experienced in navigating complex negotiations or handling unexpected hurdles during a transaction.
Additionally, ask the agent about the types of buyers they typically work with. Are they experienced in first-time homebuyers, investors, or luxury real estate? Finding someone who aligns with your buying goals is key to a smooth home purchase.
Another factor to consider is whether they have experience with competitive markets. If you're buying in an area where homes sell quickly, an agent who knows how to navigate multiple-offer situations will be invaluable.
Beyond just the number of transactions, quality matters too. An agent who prioritizes their clients, communicates effectively, and helps secure the best deal is often more valuable than one who simply has high transaction numbers but lacks personalized service.
Case Study: Consider Jane, a first-time homebuyer. She initially worked with an agent who had a high number of transactions but lacked time for personalized service. After struggling with multiple rejected offers, she switched to a realtor with fewer transactions but who was highly engaged. Within weeks, she secured her dream home under asking price.
Expert Insight: According to the National Association of Realtors, the median number of annual transactions for agents is 12. However, top-performing agents often close 30+ deals a year, demonstrating their ability to manage multiple clients efficiently.
2. What Neighborhoods or Areas Do You Specialize In?
Hiring an agent who knows your desired location inside and out can make a huge difference. Ask them:
- Have you sold homes in this neighborhood before?
- Do you know the local schools, crime rates, and community features?
- What trends are happening in this market?
Realtors with extensive knowledge of a neighborhood can help you understand pricing trends, school districts, property taxes, and even upcoming development projects that could affect property values. Local expertise also means they may have access to off-market deals or exclusive listings before they hit the general market.
Additionally, a local agent understands the **small details that make a neighborhood desirable**. They can inform you about commute times, nearby grocery stores, recreational parks, and even the local culture. This helps you make a well-informed decision beyond just price and property size.
Some agents specialize in particular property types, such as condos, historic homes, or new developments. If you’re looking for a specific type of home, choosing an agent with direct experience in that niche can be a huge advantage.
Example: Tom and Sarah were looking for a historic home in a designated preservation district. Their first agent lacked experience with these types of properties and was unaware of specific renovation restrictions. They later found a realtor who specialized in historic homes and was able to guide them toward properties that met their needs while complying with local regulations.
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