TOP 20 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT

Some might say that selling your house can be just as exciting as buying it. Yet it’s understandable if you’re feeling a bit nervous about this new chapter in your life. It can also be a stressful and expensive process, often only being undertaken a handful of times. The good news is that RE/MAX agents deal with the process of selling properties, across Southern Africa, every day. We’re always available to make the process easier for you too. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most important questions to ask your property professional before you sign on the dotted line…

Questions to Ask About Your Agent or Realtor

If you’re considering selling your property and have invited local property professionals over to conduct a house valuation, then you’ve likely got a few questions on hand already. After all, you need to ensure that they will take all the steps necessary to achieve the best possible outcome for your sale. Sellers need to find a real estate professional who they can trust to look after their best interests and who they feel will be best equipped to sell their home for full value. Here are some questions to ask your agent or realtor right away:

About the agent:

1. Do they have a valid Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC)?
2. Will they always accompany the buyer to view your property?
3. How long have they been in the real estate industry and in which areas have they worked?
4. How successful have they been in selling properties in your area?
5. What is the time period that I should give you on a sole mandate to sell my home?
6. How often will you receive updates from them on the progress of your sale?
7. Do they pre-qualify the potential buying power of a prospective buyer?
8. What is their marketing plan to showcase your property?
9. Are they using a professional photographer for your home?
10. Do they plan on hosting show days?

About the sale:

1. How many other properties like yours are currently on the market in this area?
2. How long were these homes on the market?
3. What was the actual selling price compared to the marketing price advertised?
4. What would be the ideal asking price for your house?
5. Are there ways you can enhance your property?
6. What costs will you be liable for as the seller?
7. Must you give notice to your bank regarding your current bond on the property?
8. Must you continue to pay home insurance on your property?
9. What is the time period that I should give you on a sole mandate to sell my home?
10. What compliance certificates are you responsible for providing to the buyer?

What Not To Ask a Real Estate Professional

By nature, real estate agents and realtors are not fragile beings. We’ve heard it all. And for the most part, we always try to have a great sense of humour about things. In other words, you can tell us virtually anything — in fact, you should if it’s pertinent to selling your property. However, there are some small etiquettes that any agent or realtor will always truly appreciate in their clients. To help you on your way, here are another 3 things you shouldn’t ask a property professional:

1. Can I just look at the house even though I cannot buy it right now?
2. I’m planning to sell my home on my own. I just want to know how to do it?
3. How much did < < insert friend or family’s name here > > sell their home for?

Don’t Compromise On Quality Service

There are many steps involved in selling a house and your agent or realtor can be the difference between selling fast for a great price or having your house sit idle on the market and finally selling below market value. Ask all the questions you need when interviewing your agent and you’ll put yourself in the absolute best position to sell your property for top dollar. Remember, it’s not just about knowing which questions to ask, it’s also about getting the right answers! Get in touch with your nearest RE/MAX Office today for any more support and information you require to sell your property.