Questions you should ask a potential real estate agent

Just like any professional relationship, the agent-buyer relationship should start with an interview-style meeting. The buyer should learn about the real estate agent's capabilities and experience, while the real estate agent learns the buyer's interests, needs, and limits.

Many agents are referrals (which is often great), but the relationship between the agent and the client should not be built solely on personal connections. We recommend you know what you’re looking for in an agent, do the research, and speak to a few candidates to see who can represent your best interests.

Since you’ve already decided that you need an agent, this article is intended to help you figure out which questions to ask them.

Can I see some client reviews?

When deciding on what to ask a real estate agent, it would be wise to first read some client reviews. It’s a surefire way to get a legitimate feel for how they do business. While strong sales numbers and results are great, customers tend to leave reviews based on their personal experiences — which can be more telling than stats.

Client reviews are relatable and will help you visualize the upcoming experience. If you’re looking to move to a particular neighborhood, working within a specific price range, or need to buy within a certain time frame, these reviews can give you a feel for how the agent may act in your situation.

At the end of the day, you need an agent to have your best interest in mind, and if a former customer says they were not cooperating with them, they may not be the right fit.

Are you a full-time agent?

When drafting interview questions for real estate agents, the reason for this question is fairly simple: Working with a full-time agent is more valuable than a part-time agent, as they can offer more hours and resources to you during your home search.

Not that part-time agents can’t be quality candidates, but you should understand what sort of response times they can provide you — especially in competitive markets.

Are you a dual agent?

After finding out if your agent is full-time, it would be wise to get more specific to figure out if they’re a dual agent (an agent who serves both buyer and seller).

Generally speaking, it’s in your best interest if the agent represents only you in a transaction. It’s not an absolute deal-breaker, but it's worth considering that if an agent has both parties' interests in mind, you are not number one in their book. You’re tied for second because their goal is to create a win-win scenario. And those scenarios, in most cases, will come with additional compromises to keep all three parties happy.

How long have you been a real estate agent?

The homebuying process has many steps, so there’s no denying experience is impactful in any industry. Nuance, gut feelings, connections, situational experience, and poise are skills that are acquired over time and will ultimately favor the client.

Agents with a proven track record and years of experience will sharply increase the chances of closing on a house that the buyer actually wants — not a sad, half-hearted compromise.

There are absolutely quality rookie agents who will be great for you, but teaming up with an experienced agent certainly can provide security and comfort.

How often will we communicate?

Communication is integral to a successful home purchase — so this is a great question to ask in the initial meeting. Establishing how often you and the agent will be in touch creates boundaries and sets expectations. This builds trust but also allows both parties to be prepared for calls, which can lead to closing a deal when time is of the essence.

It’s good to note that communication does go both ways. If the client is spotty or non-responsive during the proper times, deals can fall through.

Do you have any certifications?

Having an agent that’s been recognized by widely known organizations in the real estate space is always a plus. So this question may not make or break your decision, but certifications can provide benefits (such as network, resources, and specialization) to the homebuyer.

Some popular certifications include:

• REALTOR® — a dedicated real estate professional who holds membership in the National Association of Realtors, and demonstrates a commitment to high ethical standards and professionalism in the industry.
• CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) — These individuals are the elite performers in the real estate realm. They are top-performing agents and this distinction highlights their exceptional skills and expertise.
• ABR® (Accredited Buyer Representative) — These agents stand out as experts in representing buyers during real estate transactions. They have undergone specialized training to ensure unparalleled support for clients navigating the homebuying process.
• SRS (Accredited Seller Representative) — Equipped with a unique, sales-based skill set, these agents bring a heightened level of proficiency to real estate transactions on the seller’s side.
• SRES® (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) — Specially trained to assist buyers and sellers aged 50 and above, these agents possess the knowledge and understanding needed for the unique considerations of this demographic.

How many homes have you sold?

It may seem like a superficial question, but it’s beneficial to know how many deals your potential agent has closed — especially in your specific market.

The average agent will sell from two to ten houses a year. So keep that in mind when they provide you with their results.

How do you handle a competitive market?

Learning how your potential agent operates under pressure can provide you with peace of mind during the homebuying journey. The search can become stressful at times, but knowing you're in professional hands can alleviate some of that anxiety.

Note that this may be a tough question for them to answer, but if they have a deep understanding of how they navigate market headwinds, it will be easier to understand how you can best work with them.

Will you be realistic with me?

Yes, the agent wants to get you the best house possible, but it’s not beneficial for anyone if they make empty promises and are overly enthusiastic about a home that they’re not likely to close on.

A grounded agent will not put you in uncomfortable or disappointing positions. This is one area you’d like to solidify in your initial meeting with the agent.

Do you work with a team?

An agent with a team means that they will have others assisting and streamlining the homebuying process, but it also means that you will have to meet with multiple people.

Choosing an agent that either works with or without a team comes down to the buyer’s preference. But if you want to keep in touch with only one person from the first meeting all the way through closing, you should go with a solo agent.

Find the right real estate agent for you

Choosing the right agent can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Just make sure you do your research, shop around, and ask the right questions. If you do, you’ll end up with an agent that has your best interests in mind — and a path to your perfect home.