Things To Ask Your Real Estate Agent: A Comprehensive Guide

Do You Specialize in a Particular Type of Home/Price Point?

Finding an agent who considers your needs and preferences is crucial. This question ensures they have the expertise to find properties within your budget and meet your requirements effectively. Confirming that the agent primarily represents buyers rather than sellers is also essential.

Can You Provide Client References?

Ask your agent for a few recent references and contact them to learn about their experience working with the agent. Inquire about their communication style, the duration of finding a home, and the agent’s helpfulness at every stage to help you determine if the agent is the right fit for you.

Is This Home Well-Priced?

Your real estate agent’s expertise in understanding your local market is invaluable when assessing a property’s asking price. They can provide comparable sales data to determine if the home is priced reasonably. This information will help you decide about the property’s value and how much to offer.

Do You See Any Potential Issues?

While touring a home, it’s easy to be dazzled by its aesthetics and overlook potential issues. However, your agent has a trained eye and can spot any red flags or hidden problems, such as structural issues, faulty systems, or potential maintenance expenses. A thorough inspection will protect you from surprises down the road.

How Much Are the Monthly Costs?

Ask your agent about estimates for utilities, property taxes, and other expenses specific to the property and its location. Additionally, inquire about homeowners insurance requirements and any homeowners’ association fees that may apply to help you assess the overall affordability of the home.

How Long Has This Property Been Listed for Sale?

The seller may be more inclined to negotiate the price if their house has been on the market for an extended period. On the other hand, a quick sale could indicate high demand. Your agent can provide valuable guidance on approaching negotiations based on the property’s market history.

What Is the Seller’s Timeline?

Your agent can coordinate with the listing agent to gather information about the seller’s plans. This insight will help determine if the timeframe aligns with your preferred moving or closing dates.

What Offering Strategy Do You Recommend?

A knowledgeable real estate agent will provide expert advice on structuring your offer to make it more competitive and appealing to the seller. They can guide you on strategies such as waiving contingencies or adding escalation clauses if necessary.