Buying or selling a home involves a lot of moving parts, from pricing and negotiation to inspections and closing deadlines. A skilled real estate agent guides you through it all and advocates for your interests. Because you will work closely with this person for weeks or months, it is worth taking time to choose well.
Friends, family, coworkers and neighbors who recently bought or sold can tell you what it was really like to work with their agent. Ask what went well, what they would change and whether they would hire that person again.
Online reviews can reveal patterns in how an agent communicates and handles problems. Look for detailed comments rather than just star ratings, and pay attention to how agents respond to any criticism.
Notice which agents’ names appear on signs and listings in the neighborhoods you like. Agents who work an area regularly often know its pricing, quirks and upcoming listings well.
Talking with at least a few agents gives you a basis for comparison. Good questions to ask include:
Also confirm that the agent is licensed and in good standing. Most states offer an online license lookup through the real estate commission.
If you are listing a home, marketing is a big part of an agent’s job. Ask to see examples of recent listings and how they were promoted. Find out:
Experience matters, but so does chemistry. During your conversations, notice whether the agent listens to your goals or jumps straight into a sales pitch. Do they explain things clearly? Did they return your first call or message promptly? Those early impressions are often a good preview of what working together will be like.
Be wary of anyone who pressures you to sign quickly or makes promises about a sale price that sound too good to be true.
Before you commit, read the agreement carefully. Make sure you understand how the agent is compensated, how long the agreement lasts and what happens if you want to end it. Ask questions about anything that is unclear. A trustworthy agent will be happy to walk you through it.
A few warning signs suggest you may want to keep looking: an agent who rarely answers calls, who seems unfamiliar with the neighborhoods you care about, who talks more about their own awards than your needs, or who suggests a list price far above what comparable homes have sold for just to win your business. Trust your instincts. If the relationship feels off at the start, it rarely improves under the pressure of a deal.
A great agent and a responsive lender work hand in hand. Getting pre-approved before you start shopping gives your agent a clear budget to work with and makes your offers stronger. First-time buyers can learn more on our first-time home buyer page, and anyone can compare options with our loan program comparison. When you are ready, meet the FLO Mortgage team and let’s get your financing lined up.
A FLO Mortgage loan officer can walk through your options, run real numbers and help you choose a loan that fits.
This article is for general education and is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines and program availability. FLO Mortgage, Company NMLS #1835856. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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