Choosing a Realtor

Important Questions to Ask an Agent Before Listing Your Home for Sale

•Do you have an active real estate license in good standing?

•How long have you been licensed as an agent?

•Why do you think I should list with you?

•What professional designations do you hold?

•What party will you represent -- the buyer or the seller?

•What services do you offer?

•Do you belong to an online homebuyer's search service?

•Have you listed or sold in my neighborhood lately?

•How will you price my home?

•How will you market my home?

•How will you keep in contact with me during the selling process, and how often?

•What is your fee?

•Will you cooperate with buyers' brokers?

•What share of commission will you offer a cooperating broker who finds the buyer?

•What awards have you won?

Important Questions to Ask Yourself About the Agent

•Is the agent a good listener?

•Is the agent accessible?

•Is the agent part-time or full-time?

•Is the agent cooperative and enthusiastic, or rude and arrogant?

•Do you think you can have a good working relationship with the agent?

Sellers: Protect yourself and your home

Never allow random house-hunters into your home unescorted. A serious buyer will be working with a real estate professional or should be willing to contact your agent to schedule an appointment. Agents keep track of who was in your home and when, to protect you and your home. Also, always lock your valuables away before an open house - the agent onsite will be monitoring traffic, but it's impossible to be everywhere at all times.