10 Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You Choose Them
Choosing a realtor is a bit like choosing a doctor. You want someone competent, sure, but you also want someone you trust, someone who listens, and someone who'll be straight with you even when the answer isn't what you want to hear.
The wrong choice can cost you time, money, and a lot of stress. The right one can make the entire process feel manageable, even exciting. Here are the 10 questions I think every buyer and seller should ask before making their decision.
1. How well do you know this neighbourhood?
Local knowledge isn't just about knowing the streets. It's about knowing which schools are oversubscribed, which streets flood in spring, where the best parks are, and what homes in the area actually sell for versus what they're listed at. A good realtor should be able to talk specifics, not just generalities.
2. What's your marketing plan for my home?
If you're selling, this question separates the proactive agents from the passive ones. You want to hear about professional photography, staging consultations, social media campaigns, targeted digital advertising, and a clear timeline for launch and review. "We'll put it on MLS" isn't a plan.
3. Can you walk me through your recent comparable sales?
This is how you know if an agent truly understands your market. They should be able to reference specific recent sales that are relevant to your property, explain the pricing decisions, and what the outcomes were. Numbers tell the story.
4. How do you communicate, and how often?
Some agents text, some call, some email. None of those are wrong, but you need to know you're compatible. More importantly, ask how often you'll hear from them. Weekly updates? After every showing? Only when there's news? Set expectations early to avoid frustration later.
5. What happens if things don't go as planned?
Real estate doesn't always go smoothly. Deals fall through, inspections reveal surprises, appraisals come in low. You want to know your agent has a plan B (and C). How do they handle setbacks? Do they fold, or do they problem-solve?
6. Are you a full-time agent?
This matters more than people think. A full-time agent is available when you need them, immersed in the market daily, and financially invested in making their career work. Part-time agents can be great, but availability and market engagement are important factors.
7. What tools and technology do you use?
This is where the industry is heading, and your agent should be keeping up. Ask about AI-powered market analysis, digital signing, virtual tours, CRM systems, and how they use data to inform decisions. An agent who's investing in their tools is investing in your outcome.
8. Do you work solo or with a team?
Both models can work well, but they're different experiences. A solo agent gives you direct, personal attention. A team can offer broader support and coverage. Ask who you'll actually be working with day-to-day and make sure you're comfortable with the answer.
9. What's your commission structure?
Don't be shy about this. Commission structures vary, and you deserve transparency. Ask what's included, what additional costs there might be, and how the co-operating commission works. A good agent will explain all of this clearly without making you feel awkward for asking.
10. Can I talk to a past client?
References aren't just for job interviews. A confident agent will be happy to connect you with past clients who can share their experience. It's the best way to get an unfiltered view of what it's actually like to work with them.
One more thing to consider
Beyond all the questions, pay attention to how the agent makes you feel. Do they listen more than they talk? Do they seem genuinely interested in your situation, or are they just trying to close? The best agent-client relationships are built on trust, respect, and good communication. If it doesn't feel right, keep looking. The right agent is out there.
