Tips for Interviewing a REALTOR®

Choosing the right REALTOR® can make your home buying or selling process smoother, more profitable, and far less stressful. Whether you're entering the market for the first time or you’ve bought and sold multiple homes, interviewing potential agents is one of the most important steps in the process. Here’s how to make sure you pick the right fit.

1. Ask About Their Local Market Expertise

A great REALTOR® doesn’t just know real estate—they know your market. Ask questions like:

• How long have you worked in this area?
  
  
• What neighborhoods do you specialize in?
  
  
• What trends are you seeing right now?
  
  

Their answers should show confidence, clear understanding, and practical insight.

2. Review Their Track Record

Experience matters, but results matter more. Ask for:

• Number of homes sold in the past year
  
  
• Average days on market
  
  
• List-to-sale price ratio
  
  
• Types of clients they typically work with

This gives you a snapshot of how effective they truly are.

3. Understand Their Communication Style

Communication is one of the biggest factors in client satisfaction. Clarify:

• How often they’ll update you
  
  
• Whether they prefer text, email, or phone
  
  
• Who you will be communicating with (the agent or a team member)

You want someone who aligns with your communication needs—and respects your time.

4. Ask How They Will Market or Search for Your Home

If you're selling, ask:

• What marketing tools do you use?
  
  
• Will you provide professional photography, staging, or video tours?
  
  
• How will you promote my home online and offline?

If you're buying, ask:

• How do you find homes before they hit the market?
  
  
• What’s your strategy in a competitive market?

An organized, proactive plan shows professionalism.

5. Clarify Their Fees and Contract Terms

A professional REALTOR® should be transparent about:

• Commission rates
  
  
• Contract length
  
  
• Cancellation policies

This protects you from surprises and helps you feel confident moving forward.

6. Pay Attention to How They Make You Feel

Credentials matter, but trust and compatibility matter more. Ask yourself:

• Do you feel comfortable asking questions?
  
  
• Do they explain things clearly?
  
  
• Do they listen and tailor their answers to you?

Never underestimate the importance of a strong working relationship.

7. Ask for References

A great REALTOR® will have past clients willing to vouch for their service. Speaking with those clients can help you understand the agent’s strengths, style, and reliability.

Final Thoughts

Interviewing a REALTOR® is your chance to make sure you’re hiring someone who is knowledgeable, professional, and committed to your goals. With the right questions—and the tips above—you’ll be well-prepared to choose an agent who will advocate for you every step of the way.