25 questions to ask a realtor before hiring
By Kaspar Caldwell, REALTOR® · Reviewed
The exact questions to ask a realtor before you hire them to buy or sell a home in North Mississippi, and what good answers sound like.
Short answer
Ask about recent experience with deals like yours, how they communicate, how they're paid, how they price or negotiate, and what happens if you want to end the agreement. Good answers are specific, with numbers and examples.
Key takeaways
- Specific beats vague: ask for numbers and examples.
- Ask sellers' agents for a written pricing plan.
- Ask buyers' agents which areas qualify for $0 down.
Questions for buyers to ask
- How many buyers have you helped in the last year?
- What price range and loan types do you usually work with?
- Which nearby towns are USDA-eligible?
- How fast can we tour a new listing?
- How do you write a strong offer without overpaying?
- Which inspections do you recommend for rural homes (well, septic, termite)?
- What does your buyer agreement say about fees and length?
- Can I end the agreement if it isn't working?
- Do you work with lenders who close USDA and FHA loans?
- Who handles my file if you're unavailable?
- What closing costs should I expect?
- How do you handle appraisal problems?
Questions for sellers to ask
- What do you think my home will sell for, and why?
- Can I see the comparable sales?
- What's your marketing plan?
- What repairs are worth doing before listing?
- Should I consider an as-is cash offer instead?
- What will I net after costs?
- How long is the listing agreement?
- How do you handle showings and feedback?
- Do buyers using USDA loans add competition for my home?
- How often will you update me?
- What's your commission and what's included?
- What happens if my home doesn't sell?
- Can you show me your license number?
What great answers sound like
Great agents answer with specifics: real numbers, recent examples, and a plan. If you hear only 'Don't worry, I'll take care of it,' keep interviewing.
Frequently asked questions
How many agents should I interview?
+
Two or three is typical. You'll quickly see who knows your area and communicates well.
Should I ask for references?
+
Yes. Ask for past clients you can call.