What To Ask a Listing Broker Before You Work With One

Have you ever listed your home with a real estate agent only to feel frustrated when it doesn’t sell?

Many homeowners think they’ve chosen the right agent, only to be disappointed when their house sits on the market. The truth is, finding the right agent isn’t about who talks the best; it’s about asking the right questions to uncover experience, knowledge, and strategy that lead to results.

Over the years, I’ve helped countless homeowners who were frustrated after listing with an agent who didn’t deliver. Many of them thought they had made the right choice, only to find their homes still unsold.

From my experience, I’ve identified the questions and topics that reveal whether an agent is truly capable of selling your home successfully.

Start with experience. The first thing to ask is about the agent’s experience. How long have they been in real estate? Are they a full-time professional or a part-time professional? Part-time agents often lack the knowledge and expertise needed to handle the sale of your most valuable asset.

It’s also important to look at credentials and awards. What does their resume look like? Have they been recognized for their performance? Another key factor is how much of their business comes from referrals or repeat clients. A high percentage often indicates that past clients trust and recommend them, a strong sign of reliability.

Focus on market knowledge. Your agent’s knowledge of the local market can make or break the sale of your home. A skilled agent understands current trends, buyer behavior, and pricing strategies that lead to successful transactions. Asking the right questions will help you determine whether they have the experience needed to sell your home efficiently.

• Ask about recent sales in your area: One simple but revealing question is, “How many homes have you sold in my city in the last 12 months?”
  An agent who sold only a few homes last year may not have up-to-date market knowledge. In contrast, an agent with dozens or even hundreds of recent transactions has firsthand experience with today’s market conditions, knows what buyers are looking for, and understands the strategies that lead to successful sales.
  
• Consider specialization: Some agents focus on luxury homes or new construction, while others handle a variety of properties. Make sure the agent you choose has experience with homes like yours.
  
• Understand their pricing process: Ask how they determine a listing price. The right agent should explain their process clearly, backed by data and comparable sales. They should also bring personal insight from having been inside homes like yours, which adds credibility and expertise.

Marketing strategy matters. Selling a home isn’t just about listing it; it’s about marketing it effectively. Ask the agent about their marketing plan. How will they promote your home online versus in person? Do they personally handle marketing, or does a team do it?

Some agents use unique tools or platforms to make homes stand out. For example, my team invests in professional Instagram videos to showcase properties. Creative marketing like this attracts buyers and helps homes sell faster. The more thought and resources an agent puts into marketing, the better the exposure your home gets.

Communication is key. One of the biggest complaints sellers have is poor communication. Many homeowners list their homes and then never hear from their agent again. Without updates on showings, feedback, or market conditions, a home can sit on the market longer than necessary.

Ask potential agents how often you will hear from them, in what format (text, email, or call), and who your main point of contact will be. Make sure they have a plan for keeping you informed about buyer feedback and any adjustments needed to sell your home. Clear communication sets the tone for a smooth and successful experience.

Look for excellence at every step. The best agents are those who consistently demonstrate excellence, integrity, and professionalism. Experience, market knowledge, marketing strategy, and communication are all critical factors, but excellence should shine through in every interaction. Agents who stand out in these areas are more likely to provide a positive, successful home-selling experience.

If you’re looking for guidance or want an experienced team to help you sell your home, my team and I are ready to assist. Just reach out to (254) 213-5335, email Ryan@RyanSmithHomes.com, or visit centraltexasrealestatejournal.com. I’d be glad to guide you every step of the way and help you get the results you want.