Interviewing a Seller's Agent - What You Need to Ask

If you're thinking about selling your house, chances are you in the market for a Realtor to help you.

Just as any other professions, there are varying levels of expertise and professionalism. While personalities play a big part in a real estate transaction between a seller and their agent, chances are the real estate agent will be interviewing you too!

Here are some questions you can ask the real estate agents you're interviewing.

1. How long have you been in the business? Don't discount a new agent, they are fresh out of "real estate" school and can be up to date on the latest techniques. They might have more time on their hands to devote to you as well. Don't rule out an experienced agent either, they've probably seen it all and done it all already, and can bring a wealth of information and experience to your table.

2. What is your list price to sale price ratio? In a buyer's market, these numbers might be a little more off than in a sellers market due to foreclosure rates or any other potential seller problems. However, find out what average the real estate agents closings come in at. As a seller's agent, the higher the percentage the better. You want someone who will get you the most for your house. You want a real estate agent that doesn't back down on negotiations.

3. What is your marketing plan? As a seller, you want to know how will this agent sell your home. What kind of mail campaign does he or she have, and how often will he or she advertise. Ask if they market online, and at which websites. Ask them to show you a sample flyer.

4. Ask for references. Even new agents will have references from a previous job. Read through them carefully, and if allowed, contact them to ask more questions and look for comments. Make sure you ask permission though first!

5. What separates you from your competition? There is no correct answer for this. Answers will vary from office to office, area to area. Just listen carefully, and decide for yourself which advantages fit the best into your needs.

6. Ask to see the contracts before signing. A good agent will provide copies to you to read over prior to signing them. Specifically look for the listing agreement, which is the most important one to you.

7. Ask who they know, and how it will benefit you. Real estate agents can provide a lot of sources to help you out to make your move the easiest it can possibly be. Ask if they know mortgage lenders, home inspectors or attorneys.

8. What is your commission rate? Typically, real estate agents will charge anywhere from 3%-8% depending on the situation. Although the lowest price commission sounds the best for your pocket, see if there are any other fees that will be charged to you. Chances are the low commission rate is for your agent only, and you'll be asked to add additional percentages to pay the buyer's agent. Don't make a mistake of listing with the agent that has the best commission, as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for.

9. Do you have any satisfaction guarantees? You want to make sure if things aren't going well, that you'll be able to get out of the contract if needed. If you have a good agent, who works hard and does their best, you'll have no need to use a satisfaction guarantee. If however, you're unhappy, you don't want to be tied to the listing agent for an extended amount of time as you watch market time click by. A good agent doesn't hesitate to provide one.

10. Is there anything else I need to know? Listen carefully to what the agent says. This will be a great time to learn what to expect from the process, and provide much needed dialogue after an interview session. It will most likely be from this area that you'll make your ultimate decision on a real estate agent.

If you're selling your house, make sure you have the right agent representing your needs. It can make all the difference in the world between a good, or bad, transaction.