The Top Unexpected* Questions You Should be Asking Your Potential Realtor.

As you’re looking to buy, sell or invest in real estate it makes sense that you want to work with the very best available. You would be wise to interview three recommended realtors to determine who will provide you the most value and also who’s personality and work style you prefer. Real estate transactions are a big deal, you deserve to work with someone who’s not only great at their job, but who you actually like.

When it comes down to the interviewing process, there are definitely basic questions you can ask. Most lists online have compiled these already, but may leave you lacking the whole picture of what service and success a realtor will provide you with. Questions like, “how long have you been in real estate,” and “how many houses did you sell last year are just the tip of the iceberg.

Below, I’ve listed my top questions I suggest asking realtors during the interview process that help you dive deep into what it would actually be like to work with them…

What are the three top market trends you’re seeing right now?

The real estate market works in cycles and changes according to factors such as supply and demand, buyer and seller preferences, political climates and overall economic drivers. This question is designed to make sure your potential realtor is keeping up with what’s happening on your specific market and is able to advise you accordingly.

What strategies do you use to benefit your clients when buying or selling?

Related to the question above, a great agent knows how to pivot with the market and make sure they help their clients remain competitive. Realtors, just like people, are all different and have different strengths and approaches they can use to your advantage.

What did you do before becoming a realtor?

Fact, most realtors did not start out in the industry, which can actually work as a benefit to them. A realtor with previous customer service experience is most likely going to be great with people (real estate is, after all, a people business). If a realtor was once a project manager, they will probably excel at handling the various phases of the transaction. This question is so important to determining what skills and experience are available to you.

What are the top objectives or goals for your business currently?

You would prefer to work with a company and individuals who plans on building upon their success, correct? No industry or career benefits from being stagnant. Real estate is no exception.

How do you add value to the community you serve?

These days, realtors are very different from realtors of the past. Where they once were viewed as looking only to close the deal at any cost to their clients, it’s such a relief that this is no longer the case. Realtors are often active in their communities and working to provide value to those around them. Work with someone who donates portions of their proceeds to charities you care about or who volunteers their time to make positive changes to your city.

What is your favorite part of your job?

This question is going to tell you a lot about the strengths of your prospective realtor. People like to do what they’re good at, right? By asking this, you will get a realistic idea of what specific areas a realtor specializes in. Do they love first time home buyers? Then they are most likely extremely people oriented and able to focus on customer service. Is data analytics their favorite part? Then, you’re probably working with someone who is excellent at analyzing a deal.