November 28, 2018
Selling your home is a big deal; we get it! You should be interviewing an agent (or multiple) before deciding to sign on the dotted line. Here are some questions to get you started:
1. Do you work full time as an agent?
Why ask this?
- Real Estate is a 24/7 business. Somebody who sells a house or two a year is A) not going to be available for calls, offers, showings and negotiations when needed and B) Will not have enough experience as a part time agent to protect your best interest the way an agent who is in the game 7 days a week and understands the market can.
2. Do you work solo or as part of a team?
Why ask this?
- In real estate, there are MANY moving parts and specialties. An agent that is part of a team such as One Group Toronto Real Estate has access to operations & marketing specialists to ensure paperwork is organized, the listing process runs smoothly and your property is exposed to the most amount of people possible. Additionally, our team consists of trusted professional mortgage brokers, lawyers, inspectors, painters, cleaners, photographers and contractors who can ensure your home transaction is as seamless as possible.
3. How many transactions do you do a year?
Why ask this?
- Similar to the benefits of a full-time agent, an agent who performs more transactions means they are more knowledgeable about potential pitfalls, market conditions, top streets/school districts/areas and many other skills that come with experience.
4. How long do your homes normally sit on the market?
Why ask this?
- Of course, you don’t want your home sitting on the market, the For Sale sign looking stale in the front yard and your neighbours wondering “what’s wrong with that house?” A good agent has a marketing and negotiation strategy to ensure a quick sale at top dollar.
5. How do you plan to market my home?
Why ask this?
- Well-marketed and well priced (this is just as important!) homes sell quicker and for more money. A great agent will have a marketing system in place that includes their agent network, online media, and print marketing as well.
6. Do you have a database of buyers?
Why ask this?
- While MLS, online & print marketing will bring in a majority of buyers, agents who have a large database of ready and willing buyers means your home will sell quicker and possibly in competition meaning more money in your pocket.
7. What reviews/references can you provide me with?
Why ask this?
- Many agents can talk the talk, but when it comes down to it, nothing is more reflective of their work more than client reviews & references. Agents & teams should have readily available reviews on Google as well as their website.
8. Do you provide any staging/home prep assistance?
Why ask this?
- Home staging is proven to help sell homes faster and for a higher dollar. Top agents and teams have access to high quality staging pieces, from accents to full furniture in order to transform your home.
Ready to sell? We’re always ready for our interview.