Selling your home is a major financial move, and the right listing agent can make all the difference. From pricing strategy to negotiation skills, a great agent offers more than just a sign in your yard. Asking the right questions upfront helps ensure you’re hiring someone who truly understands your needs and your market.
Here are 10 essential questions to ask before signing with a listing agent:
1. What’s your experience in my neighborhood or price range?
Agents with local experience know current buyer behavior, pricing trends and what features stand out in your market.
2. How would you price my home — and why?
Look for a thoughtful strategy backed by comparable sales and market data, not just a number you want to hear.
3. What’s your marketing plan?
Ask whether the agent offers professional photos, video, virtual tours, social media or paid digital ads. A strong plan helps your home stand out.
4. Will I work with you directly or your team?
Know who will handle showings, calls and negotiations. Some agents delegate tasks, so clarity is key.
5. How will showings and open houses be handled?
Ask who will manage buyer access and whether open houses are part of the selling strategy.
6. What’s your average days on market for listings like mine?
This question gives you insight into how effectively an agent will price and promote homes.
7. How do you handle multiple offers and negotiations?
In a competitive market, an agent’s negotiation style can directly impact your final sale price and contract terms.
8. What’s your commission, and what does it include?
Be clear on fees and what services — such as staging advice or marketing — are part of the package.
9. Can you share references from recent sellers?
Hearing directly from past clients helps you understand the agent’s communication and results.
10. What do you expect from me as the seller?
Clarify expectations about staging, availability for showings and other prep in order to avoid surprises later.
A closing thought
Hiring the right listing agent isn’t just about who has the most signs in the ground. It’s about finding someone whose expertise, communication style and strategy align with your goals.
By asking the right questions, you’re not just interviewing an agent, you’re setting the stage for a more successful, less stressful home sale.
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