Questions Every Home Seller Should Ask Their Real Estate Agent

Selling a home is a major financial and emotional decision, and choosing the right real estate agent can make all the difference.

An experienced real estate agent will guide you through the process, market your home effectively, and help you get the best possible price. But how do you ensure you're working with the right agent? Asking the right questions can help you make an informed decision.

Here are 11 essential questions every home seller should ask their real estate agent before signing a contract.

1. What is your experience in my local market?

Real estate markets vary by location, so it’s important to work with a real agent who has in-depth knowledge of your specific area. Ask about their experience selling homes in your neighborhood and their familiarity with local buying trends, pricing, and buyer demographics.

2. How strong are your network and connections?

A well-connected real estate agent can provide valuable resources, from potential homebuyers to trusted contractors and mortgage lenders. Ask about their professional network, including relationships with other real estate agents, local businesses, and community influencers, to gauge how their connections could benefit your home sale.

3. How many homes have you sold in the past year?

An agent’s track record is a good indicator of their ability to sell homes successfully. While past performance isn’t a guarantee of future success, an agent who consistently sells homes is likely to have strong negotiation skills and an effective marketing strategy.

4. What is your strategy for marketing my home?

A well-thought-out marketing plan is crucial for attracting potential homebuyers. Ask the real estate agent about their approach, including online listings, social media advertising, open houses, virtual tours, and professional photography. A strong marketing plan can help your home sell faster and for a higher price.

5. How do you determine the listing price?

Pricing your home correctly from the start is key to attracting the most qualified homebuyers. Ask your real estate agent how they create/conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA) and what factors they consider to assist you in setting the optimal listing price. A real estate agent who overprices your home just to get the listing can lead to longer selling times and price reductions — potentially resulting in a lower sale price. 

6. How will you keep me informed throughout the process?

Communication is essential during the home-selling process. Find out how frequently your real estate agent will provide updates and what methods they will use (phone calls, emails, text messages). Having a clear expectation about communication can prevent misunderstandings and keep you informed.

7. What fees and commissions will I be responsible for?

Understanding the financial aspects of selling your home is important. Ask about the real estate agent’s compensation structure, as well as any additional costs such as closing costs, marketing fees, and staging expenses. This helps you avoid surprises down the line.

Commissions are not set by law and are fully negotiable and there are no requirements set by Engel & Völkers regarding the nature or amount of broker's commissions, seller concessions, or any other terms of a real estate transaction. There are no requirements set by Engel & Völkers to use any multiple listing services.

8. What is your negotiation strategy?

A real estate agent’s negotiation skills can impact how much money you walk away with after selling your home. Ask about their approach to handling offers, counteroffers, and buyer negotiations. A skilled negotiator can help maximize your home’s value and close the deal on favorable terms.

9. How do you handle multiple offers?

In a competitive market, you may receive multiple offers. Ask your real estate agent how they navigate multiple bids and whether they use escalation clauses or “best-and-final” strategies. The right approach can help you secure the best possible deal.

10. What happens if my home doesn’t sell within the expected time frame?

If your home sits on the market longer than anticipated, you need to know your options. Ask your real estate agent what their plan is if this happens. Will they adjust the marketing strategy, suggest a price adjustment/improvement, or make other recommendations? A proactive real estate agent will have a plan in place.

11. Can you provide references from past clients?

Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the real estate agent’s work ethic, communication style, and effectiveness. Ask for references or check online reviews to see what previous home sellers have to say about their experience.

Choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when selling your home. By asking these questions, you can help ensure that you find a real estate agent who’s experienced, communicative, and committed to achieving the best results for you. A great real estate agent will not only help sell your home successfully/quickly but also make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you're considering selling your home, consulting with a local real estate professional, like an Engel & Völkers advisor, can provide personalized insights to help you navigate the market effectively/efficiently. Engel & Völkers advisors are part of an exclusive global network, offering unparalleled market knowledge and access to a wide range of resources to ensure a seamless home-selling experience.