10 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Real Estate Agent

Are you ready to buy a home? Are you ready to sell a home? If you are, then you need a real estate agent. But, how should you hire a real estate agent? What should you ask when interviewing the person who is supposed to make all of your dream home ideas come true?

Time invested in the career

When you are looking for an agent you want someone who knows what they are doing and is experienced. Someone who has spent time perfecting their craft and stays current. Look for someone who has been in the business for a while and who they get their guidance from. Ask about their brokerage and what their education is.

Specializations

You want someone who is familiar with the areas you are interested in. Soemone who knows that market and the neighborhoods, schools, safety, transportation, and amenities.

Schedule/Availability

Is your agent a part-time or full-time agent? Are they quick to respond in case you are in a bidding war for your must-have home. Will they respond to you in a timely manner? These are major factors when you are under contract and things need to get done in a certain timeline.

Independent/Team

Is your agent a solo agent or are they on a team? Often times teams have a lot of support in place as well as administrative assistants. this can be helpful if your agent is busy with something but you need questions answered regarding a home or the contract you are currently under.

Buyers or Sellers Agent

Real estate agents can be both but many pick a focus area. Who you hire should be focused on the side of real estate that you are currently on. What is this agent's specialty and how can they help you achieve your home-buying goals?

Closing History

This is a hard one to ask but you want to know how successful this agent is in closing deals. Ask them about their closing history.

Typical Timeline

Ask your agent what their typical timeline is and how long you think it will take you to get into a deal that closes. A lot of this has to do with your agent and how pushy and dedicated they are to the job.

Process

What I this agent process? How do they get to know you and what you want? How do they get home matches to you in a timely manner?

Current Clientele

How many people are they working with? Are they able to handle their workload and still give you the independent attention you need in your home-buying process?

Communication

How does this agent plan to stay in touch with you and how do they prefer being communicated with? You want to line up with preferred communication styles so that there is ease in his process for you.

Get to know the person you will be working with. Buying or selling a home is a hugely emotional process and you need to be working alongside someone you to develop a relationship with. For more information on buying or selling a home, contact us!

For more information on home improvement or any and all Peoria Illinois real estate and homes for sale in East Peoria, contact our office today!