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Have you ever tried working with an incompetent agent? If you’re thinking about selling your home, you probably know how important it is to choose the right listing agent. After buying and selling many properties myself—even before becoming a real estate agent—I’ve learned much about what to look for. Hiring an agent is an important investment, and you want to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. Here are 10 questions I’d ask a potential listing agent:
1. How many homes have you sold recently? After that amazing sales pitch where you’re left clapping and thinking, “Wow, I can’t wait to sign,” don’t forget to ask, “How many properties have you sold in the past year or two?” This will give you a sense of their experience. It’s also important to know if they specialize in residential, commercial, or land properties. Most agents focus on residential and land, and that’s typically what I prefer, too.
2. Will you give me 10 references to call right now? Ask for 10 references and pay attention to how quickly they provide you with the information and the tone of their response. If they hesitate or seem defensive, that’s a red flag. You want an agent who is proud and eager to share their past work.
3. Do you have a Google presence? A strong online presence is essential when doing business these days. Ask them how much they spend each month on internet marketing, specifically on Google. You can even do a quick search to see how they appear online. Trust me, people aren’t cruising neighborhoods looking for “For Sale” signs anymore; reconsider hiring an agent if their marketing plan heavily relies on open houses.
4. Where do you rank in the MLS? With so many agents out there, knowing how they stack up against the competition can provide insight into their effectiveness.
5. What are you going to do to sell my house? This will give you an idea of their marketing strategies. If they can’t explain what happens if they don’t meet their promises or how you’ll know the steps they’ve taken, that’s concerning. A good agent should have a clear checklist of tasks they’ll complete, like professional photos and online listings.
6. How long does it typically take you to sell homes? It’s important to understand the average time it takes for them to sell homes in your price range. This will help set realistic expectations.
7. What’s going on in my area? An agent who takes their job seriously would be able to discuss local market trends in detail, from the county down to your specific neighborhood.
8. Do you have a real team? Ask if they have a real estate team, one that includes administrative, marketing, and sales support. This structure allows agents to focus more on selling than getting bogged down with paperwork. Each member of my team specializes in different aspects of a transaction, which makes us more effective. Be cautious if they’re acting solo because, based on experience, one person can’t do everything.
9. How long have you been in business? Experience matters. But it’s not just about years in the field; it’s also about the number of sales completed. A seasoned agent who has closed many transactions recently will have a better understanding of current market conditions.
10. How quickly do you respond to clients? Finally, ask how long it takes for them to respond. If a buyer’s agent tries to reach them and they’re unresponsive, that could cost you a sale. A good agent with a team will ensure that someone is always available to pick up your calls and answer your questions.
Choosing the right listing agent is a big decision, and you should definitely do your homework. Asking the right questions will reveal whether someone knows what they’re doing and whether they’re the right fit for you. Remember, this is a business relationship, and you’re dealing with a lot of money, so do your due diligence.
I hope these tips help you in your search. Feel free to reach out at (406) 552-7548 or jason@jasonbakerteam.com if you have any questions or need further advice.
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