These Questions Will Help You Choose the Best Realtor
Before diving head first into the housing market to seek out your dream home, odds are that you’ll be picking a realtor first. For the best experience searching for the ideal house, touring properties, negotiating, and more, you’ll need to select a real estate agent that is able to fulfill your needs with good support and expertise.
Don’t immediately lock yourself into partnership with a realtor; you might regret the decision later down the road when unexpected obstacles appear. That’s why we’re here to provide a list of questions that are absolutely necessary to ask potential realtors. Let’s dive further into it.
The Important Questions to Ask Realtors
How well do you know the area/neighborhoods?
Choosing a real estate agent who specializes in the neighborhoods you’re considering is essential to making an informed buying decision. A knowledgeable agent won’t just know what’s available— they’ll understand the local market dynamics, such as listing trends, typical sale prices, how long homes tend to stay on the market, and how competitive the area is. This insight can help you spot a good deal, avoid overpaying, and act quickly when the right home comes along.
Beyond pricing, a well-informed agent should also be familiar with key aspects of the neighborhood that impact your daily life. Ask whether they can speak confidently about local schools, safety ratings, commute options, parks, restaurants, and other amenities that matter to you. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or downsizing retiree, an agent with hyperlocal expertise can help match your lifestyle with the right community and ensure you’re buying more than just a house, but a place that feels like home.
What does your availability look like, and does your schedule align with mine?
While many capable agents work part time, limited availability can sometimes lead to communication delays, missed opportunities, or scheduling conflicts, especially in a competitive market where timing is everything. Ideally, you want a full-time agent who can devote the necessary attention to your home search and respond quickly to new listings, showing requests, and time-sensitive negotiations. If the agent isn’t full time, they should clearly explain how they’ll manage urgent matters and ensure you’re never left waiting when it counts.
It’s also important to discuss availability and scheduling preferences upfront. For example, if you’re only free to tour homes on evenings or weekends, make sure your agent can accommodate that. A great agent will work around your schedule and make the process as convenient as possible. Aligning expectations early on can help prevent frustration later and ensure that your home search stays on track.
How long does the process of finding and buying a home take when working with you?
Buying a home is a process that requires time, patience, and the right guidance, especially in today’s fast-moving markets. On average, buyers may spend 30 to 60 days searching for a home and another 14 to 60 days navigating the contract-to-closing phase. However, this timeline can vary significantly based on location, market conditions, and how competitive the inventory is in your price range. A knowledgeable agent should be able to provide a realistic timeframe based on your needs and the area you’re searching in.
Asking this question gives you insight into an agent’s efficiency and how well they support their clients through the process. If an agent tells you that most of their clients spend six months to a year before closing on a home (without good reason) it could be a red flag. It might indicate a lack of urgency, weak negotiation strategies, or insufficient knowledge of the market. Look for an agent who balances patience with proactivity; someone who won’t rush you into the wrong house, but also won’t drag their feet when it’s time to act.
How do you typically communicate with clients, and how frequently will I hear from you?
Clear and consistent communication is one of the most important qualities to look for in a real estate agent. Before committing, ask how your agent plans to stay in touch throughout the process. Do they prefer phone calls, emails, or text messages? And more importantly: what works best for you? It’s important that your communication styles align. For example, if your agent primarily texts but you prefer phone calls, that mismatch could quickly become frustrating for both of you.
In addition to communication style, you’ll want to clarify how frequently your agent plans to check in. A good agent should proactively keep you updated, even if there’s no major news to share. In a slower market, weekly check-ins might be sufficient, but if homes are selling quickly in your area, daily updates could be crucial. The right agent will ensure you’re always in the loop, so you can move quickly when the right opportunity comes along.
Conclusion: Assess Realtors Before Moving Forward
Choosing the right real estate agent can make or break your homebuying experience. By asking the right questions up front, you’ll gain valuable insight into an agent’s expertise, communication style, and ability to meet your needs. Take the time to assess each candidate carefully, because with the right realtor by your side, the path to your new home will be much smoother and more successful.
Looking for the perfect realtor in Houston, Texas or surrounding areas? Talk to us at Oscar Combs Realtor to find out how we can help find you the perfect home, tour properties, and secure the deal. Contact us today.
