Finding a real estate agent that you can depend on and feel confident in to sell your home is a difficult task. Some homeowners are so eager to sell their home they overlook the process of seeking a professional real estate agent. Homeowners that rush through the process of hiring a real estate agent are often disappointed. Before you hire the first real estate professional you meet, ask the following questions.
1. Are you a licensed real estate professional in the state of Florida?
2. Have you sold any other homes in my neighborhood over the past few years?
3. What is your marketing plan to sell my house?
4. How long must I list my house with you?
5. How often will you communicate with me?
6. Are your fees negotiable?
7. Can you explain the selling process to me?
8. May I see the documents I will need to sign?
9. Will you stage my home? Or, will I have to do it?
10. Do you work as a real estate agent full-time or part-time?
It is highly recommended to interview a few different real estate agents then choose the one you like the best. As a homeowner, you are looking for a real estate agent that communicates well and is knowledgeable about the industry. A licensed professional will be happy to show you their credentials and discuss their education and experience with you.
Beware of agents that breeze over their education information and don’t have references. An experienced and successful real estate agent will have good references that you can contact directly. The goal you want to focus on when speaking to references is getting a clear vision of their experience with the real estate agent you are considering to hire.
Some homeowners might have a real estate agent in their family or within their circle of friends. This is excellent because you already know the person and their work ethic. People that are close to you will usually have your best interest in mind during the selling process.
However, there are times when hiring a relative or friend can backfire and cause you to argue over the selling process. You might not agree with their marketing plan or other ideas. Sometimes people that already know each other begin to take things personally and will cause an issue during the selling process. Whether you choose to hire someone you know or not, you need to definitely interview them and ask the 10 questions listed above to get a clear picture.
