When my husband and I set out to sell our old home a little over a decade ago, we met with a number of real estate agents before settling on the person who would eventually help us through the process. We knew that choosing the right broker could mean the difference between higher and lower profits for our house, as well as the difference between a smooth and a rocky process.

If you are looking to sell your home, finding the right agent for the job is important. Here are some questions that can help you make the best call.

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1. How well do you know this area?

When hiring a real estate agent, many people rely on many years of professional experience. Experience is important, but even more important is experience selling homes in your specific neighborhood. It's a good idea to work with someone who knows the ins and outs of the local market and can help you determine the correct list price.

2. How many clients do you work with now?

If a real estate agent barely has a handful of clients, that could be a red flag. On the other hand, you don't want to hire a real estate agent with too many clients because if that person is juggling several dozen people at the same time, it means you may not get the personal attention you want when selling a home. There isn't a specific sweet spot to aim for, however, and you may find an agent who has a heavy load of customers but also a robust support staff to manage it. That too can and should play a role in your decision.

3. How long do I have to sign a contract?

In today's housing market, houses sell pretty quickly. But that doesn't mean your listing won't stay out for a while. And if this happens due to poor marketing by your real estate agent, you want an exit. Before signing a contract, ask your realtor how much time you need to give them to sell your home. You may be told to give your agent a good three months before you can move on to someone else.

4. What commission do you charge?

Real estate agents operate on a commission basis, but their fees can vary. As a general rule, expect your broker's commission to be between 4% and 6% of the sale price of your home. This means if your home sells for $ 400,000, you'll pay your broker $ 16,000 to $ 24,000. If a broker offers you a higher fee, look elsewhere, although you can always ask if that broker is willing to negotiate. The lower your fee, the more money you will have to invest in your next home – which, in turn, can mean you can get a lower mortgage.

Selling a home is a huge undertaking that will have a huge impact on your finances. Before hiring a real estate agent, go through these questions so that you are satisfied with your decision.

source https://seapointrealtors.com/2021/08/09/4-questions-to-ask-a-real-estate-agent-before-hiring-one/

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