As a first-time homebuyer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed even before you begin your homebuying journey. After all, this is a new process for you and, simply put, you don’t know what you don’t know. First off, there are no silly questions you can ask during any stage of the homebuying process. To help you get started I created a list of 7 questions you can ask a real estate agent before deciding to hire them.
7 questions to ask when you interview agents
Contacting the agent listed on the for-sale sign of a house you’re interested in may not be the best way to protect your interest as a buyer. When you work with your own agent, that agent’s job is to represent your interests. They help research the house, find answers to all of your questions, and serve as your professional intermediary for communicating with the seller’s agent and homeowner.
Naturally, you will want to choose a great real estate agent that you are comfortable with and feel like they have your best interests in mind. Most real estate experts recommend that you interview at least three agents identified by recommendations from friends and family who have bought or sold a house recently. Here are some questions to ask potential agents to see if they are the right agent for you.
- How long have you been a real estate agent?
- What kind of experience do you have in this specific market area?
- Do you usually work with buyers or sellers?
- How do you usually communicate with clients? What should I expect for response time?
- How will you help me search for homes?
- What days and times are you typically available for showings?
- How will you ensure transparency about any issues you see with a house?
When you set your expectations for communication, home tours, and other information you count on your agent to provide, you have a good chance to establish a productive relationship from the start – which will help you through your homebuying journey.
You may also find very helpful: How to Buy a Home with Less Than Perfect Credit
