Transcript:
The first thing you should ask when hiring an agent is a basic, but critical question. “How many homes have you sold?” And make sure they’re telling you how many homes they have sold, not their brokerage or their team. Less experienced agents will often rely on the stats of others to bolster their own.
The second question you should ask is related to the first:” Are you a full-time agent?” It’s important that you have someone who is dedicated and available to help with what is likely one of the most significant investments you have or will make, not someone who “does real estate on the side” and has limited experience.
Another key question to ask is, “What real estate education do you have?” “How do you stay current with the latest market trends, technology, and regulations?” The market and technology changes, and you want to make sure your agent’s best practices aren’t decades old. Experience can easily become a crutch for more successful agents and breed complacency. Make sure your agent is not only experienced, but up-to-date on the market and latest technology.
You should also ask, “How will you generate buyers for my home?” Most listing agents will rely on buyer agents to bring buyers or make a half-hearted effort with little more than open houses and print ads. I make sure my clients stand out from the competition by providing you with 24/7 virtual open houses, video, massive online presence, and social media ads targeting engaged buyers.
Finally, ask, “What technologies and innovations do you use to get you maximum exposure?” Most agents are still marketing like it’s 1999. 77% of buyers say they are using social media in their search. Yet, only 16% of agents are using social media, and only about 1% are using it correctly. Just posting your home on their business page isn’t going to get the job done.