With how competitive today’s housing market is, working with the right real estate agent is more important than ever. After all, they’re the ones who are supposed to help you list your home and find qualified buyers.

But finding a great agent doesn’t mean you found the right agent. Sometimes, even the most successful agents might not understand the kind of support you need when selling your home.

10 Questions You Should Ask To Find the Right Real Estate Agent

To make the process just a little easier, the experts at Amy Stockberger Real Estate have come up with 10 questions you should ask when interviewing potential real agents.

Let’s dive in.

1. What Are Your Qualifications And Training?

Before you do anything, you need to verify the agent’s qualifications. In addition to holding a valid state license, they also need to be an active member of the local real estate board. They need to have access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) where they can list your property and hopefully attract potential buyers.

They should also have a few years’ experience under their belt. Even though everyone has to start somewhere, it’s better to work with an experienced agent who understands the housing market and helps you find qualified buyers.

It’s also important to know whether they work full-time or part-time only. While there are plenty of successful real estate agents who only work part-time, selling your home quickly is a full-time job. Someone who’s only working part-time may not have the time to spare, especially if they’re working with multiple clients.

2. Do You Work on a Team?

After verifying their credentials and experience, the question should be whether they work alone or on a team. In metropolitan areas, it’s not uncommon for agents to work on a team. Both scenarios have pros and cons, so it’s better to know in advance.

For instance, if your agent works side by side with other agents, who will they hand work off to when they’re out of the office? If they work alone but have a support staff, will they be able to answer your questions if something comes up?

Knowing this information in advance will ward off any miscommunication and prevent you from feeling like you’re being handed off to someone else.

3. How Many Clients Do You Have?

While you do want to work with an agent who’s in demand, you probably don’t want to get lost in the crowd. Agents who manage multiple clients might not give you the attention you deserve.

In addition, having a lot of clients doesn’t automatically mean they’re able to sell your home. They need to be well-versed in the process and under how market fluctuations can impact your ability to sell.

4. Can You Explain The Selling Process?

Even with years of experience and numerous sales under their belt, selling a home isn’t easy. A lot of things can go wrong, even when all the pieces fall into place. As such, ask them to explain the process from start to finish.

From determining the listing price to negotiating offers, you need to understand what’s involved. A qualified agent will take the time to explain the process in a way that’s easy to understand.

5. How Many Homes Have You Sold?

Your agent’s track record is also important. While it doesn’t guarantee your home will immediately sell, agents who’ve sold numerous homes usually have a better understanding of what it takes to get your home in front of the right people.

You should ask about the number of homes they sold, how long those homes were on the market and whether those sales went smoothly.

6. Do You Specialize in My Neighborhood?

The agent you choose should also specialize in selling homes in your neighborhood. While they don’t necessarily need to live there, they should have inside knowledge of the area and already sold homes similar to yours.

They should know the top selling points of the area and whether future development could affect the property value.

7. What Are Your Fees?

Agents typically earn 6 percent commission, which is split between the listing agent and buyer’s agent. A qualified agent will be happy to break down how the commission works. You also need to inquire about cancellation fees. Since you’re entering into a contract, you may have to pay a penalty if it’s broken.

8. What Are The Associated Costs?

Since your home is one of the largest financial investments you’ll make, it’s natural to want a breakdown of any costs associated with selling it. In addition to the commission fee, there are closing costs, inspection fees, a fee for title transfers and possible attorney fees.

9. How Can I Contact You?

Everyone has a preference when it comes to communication. Some people prefer email while others prefer text messaging. Make sure you’re on the same page, so there’s no miscommunication.

You should also discuss how often you will be in contact. Some sellers prefer weekly updates whereas others might want updates every two weeks. If you want to reach the Amy Stockberger team, gives us a call anytime: 605-376-6780.

10 How Do I Get My House Ready?

Once you decide to sell, there are a few things to consider before listing your home. You may want to paint or make renovations or upgrade your appliances. An experienced real estate agent will go over everything you need to do to get your home ready for prospective buyers.

Real Estate Agents: The Bottom Line

Selling your home is exciting, and with the help of an experienced real estate agent, you’ll attract qualified buyers and the offers you deserve. From correctly pricing your home and curb appeal tips to home inspections and fielding offers, these professionals will help you with every aspect of your transaction.

If you’re in need of a real estate agent in Sioux Falls, SD, look to Amy Stockberger Real Estate, the number one real estate team in South Dakota. Call 605-376-6780 to speak with a team member or utilize our online contact form to get started.