Selling Your Home? Talk to More Than One Agent
Selling your home is one of the most important financial decisions you will ever make. And the person you hire to help you do that should not be selected by default. You’re hiring an agent for a job. So interview like it. Someone recently reached out to me with concerns about their weak listing agent, and it reminded me how common it is for sellers to skip this one vital step. You are hiring someone to do a job. You would never give someone a job without an interview, so why would you hand over your home to the first agent who returns your call?
What to Ask When Interviewing Real Estate Agents
I always recommend interviewing two or three listing agents. During these interviews, you should ask specific questions about:
- The condition of your home and what improvements are worth making
- The current market conditions and how they impact your sale
- The recommended list price and pricing strategy
- The agent’s marketing plan to get buyers in the door
And by marketing plan, I do not just mean “we’ll post it online.” Ask about professional photography, virtual tours, social media strategy, print marketing, and open houses. You want to know exactly what you are getting in exchange for their fee.
It Is Not Just About Marketing. Can They Close?
Once the marketing brings in an offer, your agent needs to shift gears. You also need someone who can negotiate and successfully guide the deal to the closing table. Do not underestimate how important it is to have a closer. Marketing gets attention. A good agent gets results.
Be Very Careful With the Listing Agreement
The second concern I often hear from sellers is about the listing agreement itself. It is so important that you read the listing agreement before you sign it. In this recent message I received, the seller mentioned they signed a year-long contract. That is far too long in most situations. I almost always recommend limiting listing agreements to six months or less. If you are uncertain, ask your agent for a shorter-term agreement or negotiate a cancellation clause that allows you to walk away without a penalty.
Confident Agents Will Not Fight You on This
A good agent who believes in their process will not be afraid of a flexible cancellation clause. They will be more focused on doing a great job than holding you hostage to a contract. If your agent pushes back hard on this, it might be time to look elsewhere.
Read the Fine Print and Understand Your Rights
Whether your listing period is 30 days or 6 months, make sure you know what happens if you want to cancel. Understand when the agreement expires and what obligations continue after it ends. Every seller deserves clarity before signing.
Final Thoughts
Interview your real estate agent like you would anyone else you are hiring. It is not just about who is nicest or who responds first. You are trusting this person with a major life event. Ask the right questions. Compare your options. And never sign anything you do not fully understand.
If you would like help finding a reputable listing agent in your market or just want to talk through your options, I am happy to help. Let me know how I can be a resource.
