SELLERS: 10 Essential Questions to Ask When Hiring a REALTOR® in Boston, MA
Before hiring a REALTOR® to sell your Boston home, it's important to ask the right questions. Interviewing multiple REALTORS® will help you find the best fit for your needs. Here are ten smart questions to ask:
Homeowners should interview a few potential REALTORS® before deciding on one to sell their home. Here are some smart questions to ask:
1. How Long Have You Been in the Business?
A newly licensed REALTOR® can bring fresh knowledge, while a more experienced agent offers practical insights from years in the market. Ask how long they’ve worked in Boston real estate specifically.
2. What Is Your Average List-to-Sales-Price Ratio?
This ratio shows how well the REALTOR® can negotiate sales prices. A good agent consistently sells homes close to their listing prices, which is a sign of effective negotiation.
3. How Will Your Marketing Plan Meet My Needs?
Ask for details about how the REALTOR® plans to market your home. Will they use professional photos, videos, or online advertising? How will they promote your home to buyers in the competitive Boston real estate market?
4. Will You Provide References?
A reputable REALTOR® should provide references from recent clients. Be sure to ask if any of the references are related to the agent. Contact these references to ask about their experience.
5. What Separates You from Your Competition?
Look for key traits such as assertiveness, availability, professionalism, reliability, and the ability to handle stressful situations with a positive attitude.
6. May I Review Documents I Will Be Asked to Sign?
A professional REALTOR® will give you access to forms before you need to sign anything. Review documents like the agency disclosure, listing agreement, and seller disclosure forms.
7. How Will You Help Me Find Other Professionals?
Ask for a list of trusted vendors such as home inspectors, attorneys, and contractors. Be cautious if the agent has “affiliated” vendors—this may indicate the agent is receiving compensation for referrals.
8. How Much Do You Charge?
All real estate fees are negotiable, but it’s important to ask what their standard commission rate is. Be clear on the terms before moving forward.
9. What Kind of Guarantee Do You Offer?
If you’re not satisfied after signing a listing agreement, will the REALTOR® allow you to cancel? Find out if there’s any flexibility to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the process.
10. What Haven’t I Asked You That I Need to Know?
This open-ended question allows the REALTOR® to share any additional insights or important information you may have overlooked. It can reveal how thorough and honest they are in their communication.