Buying a home can be a daunting task, and no matter how much research you do online, you still need the help of an experienced Salt Lake City real estate agent. But how do you choose the right one? Before you sign a contract, it’s important to sit down with potential agents and ask the right questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. In this blog post, we’ll look at the five key points every home buyer should consider when interviewing an agent.
Who? — Who are your former clients, and can I get in touch with them to hear about their experience?
One of the best ways to get an idea of how well an agent will work for you is to speak with their former clients. Ask the agent for a list of references, and be sure to follow up with those clients. Ask about their experience working with the agent, how responsive they were to questions, and whether they would recommend them to others.
What? — What strategies will you use to sell my home (open houses, virtual tours, social media plans, etc.)?
Selling a home requires more than just putting a sign in the front yard. Ask the agent what marketing strategies they will use to sell your home. Will they hold open houses regularly? Will they use social media or virtual tours? What makes their approach unique compared with other agents? Consider how their answer aligns with your needs and expectations for selling your home.
When? — When will our contract expire, and do you think my home will sell within that time?
It’s important to clearly understand the timelines involved with selling your home. Ask the agent when their contract will expire and what happens if your home doesn’t sell during that time. Make sure you understand the terms of the agreement before signing on the dotted line.
Where? — Where have you sold homes in the surrounding area?
A good agent should have a solid understanding of the local real estate market, including recent sales and trends. Ask the agent where they have sold homes in the surrounding area and how familiar they are with your specific neighborhood. You want an agent who is familiar with the ins and outs of your local market and is well-connected with other agents in the area.
How? — How will you determine the best list price for my home, and how much will it cost to sell my home?
Pricing your home correctly is critical to ensuring a successful sale. Ask the agent how they will determine the best list price for your home and what factors they will consider. Also, get a clear idea of what it will cost to sell your home, including the agent’s commission, staging or repair costs, and closing fees.
Choosing the right real estate agent is an essential step in the home-buying process. By asking these key questions, you can better understand whether an agent is the right fit for your needs. Remember, a good agent should be knowledgeable, professional, and responsive to your needs. Take the time to interview several agents before making a decision, and trust your instincts when choosing someone to work with. With the right agent by your side, buying or selling a home can be a smooth and stress-free experience.
