Questions to Ask When Selecting Your Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agents are like most other fields. While most Agents are credible, hard working people, there are always a few in the group who manage to give the rest of us a bad name. Below are some pointers for important questions for you to ask someone you are considering let represent you as a Real Estate Agent:

	1) What is your prior experience? Experience helps. Agents who have had a long track record (at least a year), have had the experience of working with people before and the paperwork required for a transaction. Of course, some of the hardest working Agents can be newcomers who are hungry to prove they are professional, diligent representatives. So if they have little or no experience, it doesn't mean you should automatically turn them down - instead ask:
	2) What is your support network? In effect, this question says if the Agent can't answer your questions, or if a problem arises, who does the Agent turn to for support? Are they part of a large brokerage that has experienced Office Managers on staff? Do they have a mentor? If they are a member of a professional organization (such as the National Association of Realtors), are there any supports that they can access in that organization for knowledge or advice?
	3) Do you have any references? Even if they've done only a little bit of business, or worked with a few clients, see if they can give you the names and numbers of their past contacts. If they seem to hedge this question, be wary. An Agent that cannot produce even a few people who would recommend them is either very inexperienced, or has real problems with clients.
	4) Do you have any past material? This is useful for you to ask if you are a seller. If they've produced fliers, ask to see them. Many Agents will take pictures of the properties they've listed to make fliers or put in the MLS. Ask to see these as well. While it doesn't always tell the whole story, seeing if their material shows consideration and a professional appearance can help you determine what they will do when the time comes to market your property.
	5) What do you normally do to market a property? This is also a great question for a seller to ask. Some Agents might do things differently from others. Whatever the result is, make sure that if you are going to use someone as an Agent, both you and the Agent understand clearly what the expectations are, and how they will be measured.
	6) What kind of feedback are you willing to give me? As with any relationship, communication is critical to the success of your Real Estate transaction. Be sure to ask your Agent how often they think they should be communicating with you, and how they plan to do this. Is it by mail? A phone call? Email? With the lines of communication open in advance, there is a lot less room for frustration with your Agent.
	7) Have you ever had a complaint filed with the Department of Real Estate? Many states' Department of Real Estate keep records on Agents. If there is a problem with negligence to the extent that someone has filed for a violation with this department, this could be a red flag. If you'd like to check this information yourself, most states now have a Website for the Department of Real Estate, and the ability to check an Agent's record online. If you do find there is a violation, allow the Agent to explain him or herself, and honestly be open to their answer. After all, every story has two sides.

Finding the right Agent for you will make your Real Estate transaction go much more smoothly. Checking out your Agent's background, as well as their work habits can help you determine if you and your Agent are a good fit. If you would like to ask me about my background or information, or how I can help you, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Jane Scrima
Stirling International Realty
201 E. Central Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone:
407.581.5550
Cell Phone:
407.718.3358
Fax:
407.581.5551

jscrima@stirlingrealty.com