Help... questions to ask a realtor?

[katzmeow671]

 Ok, we're at the point that we need to start interviewing realtors but I have no idea what to ask.   I know several of you have sold a house recently... how did you decide on your realtor and is there anything you wish you had looked for  / asked before hiring them

Comments

[aggiewriter]

Don't go on personality alone. That's how we got screwed. We finally wised up and got the guy we should have from the start - the realtor who sold more houses in our neighborhood than any other realtor.

You want someone with high volume and who is aggressive in marketing both online as well as realtor to realtor. It's also nice to know the percentage of homes sold to their own clients (not necessarily by your realtor but by someone in their office).

Also, ask how they share information with their colleagues. Some realtors do walk-throughs with the other realtors in their office so that they're aware and can show your home to their clients.

From our experience and from others that sold when we did, Remax seems to have a good operation.

[aggiewriter]

Does your neighborhood have a newsletter? If so, look to see if there are realtors who advertise in it. Those who do a lot of business in your area will have ads there. I'd start with them. Or drive around your area and see if there is anyone who has more than one sign in someone's yard. Don't be afraid to stop and ask the homeowner about their experience.

Also, remember the realtor is working FOR you. Our first realtor wasn't very responsive. Thankfully we didn't have to sign a contract with her or we'd still be waiting to sell.

[katzmeow671]

No, we don't have that kind of neighborhood. But I have three very strong possibilities who are all friends of the family (one actually family). I just need help knowing how to narrow it down. Your questions were helpful.. thanks!

[aggiewriter]

Be careful when using friend or family because, like I said, they're supposed to be working for you. It's such a crazy market so you don't need to feel guilty if you have to fire someone or light a fire under their butt to hustle for you. Don't enter into something out of loyalty. This is a business process.

[mel_hams]

I'd first and foremost want a personal recommendation from a friend or someone that has used the realtor. IMO. Haven't recently sold a house, but I have worked in real estate since 1995!! :)

[katzmeow671]

The three possibilities I have I know personally. Its really between two guys but I just found out last night that my cousin's husband has his real estate license as well so we're going to at least talk to him. That's why I was hoping to build a list of questions to ask.

[mrsharris]

Yes, what Melanie said. A personal recommendation is the key. All the other advice is very good, but nothing beats a person who has had success with a realtor. I wish I could lend you ours b/c she is the BEST.

[katzmeow671]

I wish you could too! I just want to get this house sold! Hey, you know I'll only be about 4 hours from you when we move. Make it to St. Louis much???

[mrsharris]

Actually, I have a very good friend there and we've gone to see them a few times. We'll have to meet up sometime!

[feab323]

I wouldn't go with your cousin's husband. He may be a wonderful person and a great businessman but family and business do not mix.

Good luck deciding on the other two candidates!

[cbiggers]

I would vote for number 2. As for what to look for, my biggest thing is probably personality followed closely by his record of selling. Also, listen to your gut!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I definitely wouldn't go with number three based on teh fact that he isn't with an agency/broker, etc. You want brand recognition for buyers and want buyers to have "security" in who is selling. Just my opinion, but that's what I'd be looking at.