5 Things to Ask Your Real Estate Agent Now

We’ve all been there – you decide to try a new restaurant and pick the most out-of-the-box item to eat. You’re inspired to “try something new” and “broaden your horizons,” but unfortunately, the dish you are served is nothing less than sickening. You just can’t stomach it, and you decide your decision wasn’t for the best.

Fortunately, you learn from your mistake and know to ask the right questions next time – What does this dish taste like? Do you recommend it? Can you do it without that specific spice? Asking questions is one of the most necessary things to do before making any decision, even one as minor as a meal.

Thankfully, it’s easy to move on after a situation like this, but if you decided to buy a house without asking the proper questions, that could result in a different story. Buying a home is an investment that will likely follow you for years, if not decades. You want to make sure you ask the right questions and not just buy a home on a whim.

Here are five important questions to ask your realtor before you start the home buying process:

 

 

1. How long have you been a realtor?

Experience is everything, especially in the real estate industry. An agent that has been in the industry for an extensive amount of time is bound to have years of experience under their belts. A real estate agent with years of work logged will be able to use their years of negotiation skills to get you the best offer at the best rate. They will also likely have relationships and connections in the areas you are searching for a home and therefore help you navigate your way through the process.

 

2. How will you communicate with me throughout this process?

Communication is key, especially when you are making such a big decision as buying or selling a home. If you don’t have the proper communication skills in place, many important things could fall through the cracks. Discuss the best options for communication with your real estate agent. Maybe they prefer texting versus email? Or, perhaps, they work better in person. Talk about their plan for communication and not only what works best for them, but what works best for you as well.

 

3. How many homes did you close last year?

In baseball, we look at each players’ batting average. The same goes for realtors; if a real estate has a relatively low closing ratio, it could be a potential red flag. Do your research and look into their stats to give you a good idea of their potential as your real estate agent.

 

4. What is your plan for my home buying process?

Selling a home isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Everyone’s home buying process is different so ask your realtor what their plan is for your needs. A custom strategy should be in place to make sure all your wants and desires are met so you can find the perfect home for you.

 

 

5. Is there anything else you would like me to know upfront?

This is the time for your real estate agent to be transparent; the floor is now there’s to state anything that needs to be discussed. This relationship will be close-knit, so you want to make sure you have everything out on the table. Honesty, communication, and transparency will be the most significant deciding factors in who you choose to help you find your dream home.

At BSR Realty Group, we know how important it is to be upfront, open, and honest with our clients. That’s why we have the best realtors in Palm Beach County! Learn more about how you can find the perfect realtor for your today! Contact us now to get started on your home buying or home selling journey.