So, you’re thinking about selling your home. First of all, congrats! Finally taking the plunge and getting ready to list is a big deal—and it’s your first step towards tackling plenty of brand-new adventures. However, trusting a listing agent with your biggest investment may seem a little nerve-wracking. If you’re not sure how to pick the right real estate pro, here are a few questions to ask before settling on “the one.”
Do you have your real estate license?
Okay, this might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s still worth asking. If the agent you’re interviewing cannot produce their license, take them out of the running immediately. When there’s this much money on the line, you don’t want to deal with anything even remotely shady.
How long does your average listing stay on the market?
In a seller’s market, most listings should move pretty quickly—but it’s still crucial to know what kind of timeline you’d be dealing with when you choose an agent. If the number they give you seems a little high, don’t be afraid to ask a few more questions or move on to another option.
What’s your list-to-price ratio?
Not familiar with a list-to-price ratio? In a nutshell, it’s the ratio of the final sale price of a home compared to its original listing price. A well-versed listing agent will have a list-to-price ratio of around 100%, and you’ll want to be wary if that number drifts much lower or higher. If it’s too low, you might not get the final price you want. However, a ratio over 100% might mean that they undervalue their listings.
What experience do you have in my neighborhood?
If you’ve seen some “for sale” signs on your street that all have the same face on them, you might want to give that agent a call. Most real estate pros have a pretty wide service area, but the more experience they have in your particular neighborhood, the better. In fact, going with a local pro can even help you get a better (and more accurate) price!
How many clients do you currently represent?
Just because an agent is busy doesn’t necessarily make them great at their job. If they’re helping more than a few other sellers, you and your home could get lost in the fold. However, if a busy agent still ticks all your boxes, you may want to wait for them to close a few sales before they take you on as a client.
What’s your strategy for my needs?
Are you selling on a timeline? Have you already moved out of your home and need to list ASAP? Every seller has their own unique needs, and the right agent will know how to handle them. It’s okay to put them on the spot—chances are, they’ve probably dealt with a situation like yours before.
How do you plan on marketing my home?
Although most Main Line listings are flying off the market, even the best properties need some exposure to bring in buyers. If your agent doesn’t have a multifaceted marketing strategy that involves online resources, social media, and more, you may want to steer clear.
How does your commission work?
We all know that real estate is centered around money, especially for your agent. Although you will be forming a valuable partnership, selling a home is ultimately a business transaction. Use this opportunity to get familiar with their commission percentages—they can vary from agent to agent.
What sets you apart from other agents?
You want to look for a pro that will go above and beyond for you—no exceptions. If your potential listing agent can’t explain what sets them apart from their competition, it’s time to move on.
What else should I know?
The right listing agent is an expert in their field, so they won’t just know how to sell houses—they can sell themselves, too. Be on the lookout for an agent that’s keen on giving advice, as well as other tips that you might not have considered.
Find the Right Listing Agent
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect listing agent, I’d love to help you get your Main Line home on the market. I have all the resources you need to sell quickly and for the right price—and I’m only a phone call away. Let me know if you have any questions!