How to Interview a Real Estate Agent: Questions to Ask Before You Commit
Choosing a real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make—whether you’re buying your first home or selling your longtime space. But how do you know if someone’s the right fit for you?
It’s pretty simple: conduct a short introductory interview and be on the lookout for the answers you want to hear. A good agent will welcome your questions, and a great one will be excited to walk you through the process and explain how they work.
Below is a checklist and list of interview questions to help you feel 100% confident before signing on with anyone…even me.
The Checklist
Use this checklist as a starting point when meeting with any agent (or Realtor®). You don’t have to ask every question word for word—but use these themes to guide the conversation and see if they’re a good match for your goals and communication style.
1. Are you a Realtor®?
Why it matters:
Not all real estate agents are Realtors®. A Realtor® is a member of the National Association of Realtors and adheres to a strict Code of Ethics. This added layer of accountability ensures they’re held to higher professional standards and are committed to working in your best interest.
2. How well do you know this area?
Why it matters:
You want someone who understands the market. Neighborhood vibes, school districts, resale value, traffic flow—Google can only tell you so much. Local knowledge helps you price your home accurately (if you’re selling) or avoid overpaying (if you’re buying).
Ask:
How long have you been working in this area?
What kinds of homes do you specialize in?
What local trends are you seeing right now?
3. What’s your experience with homes like mine?
Why it matters:
If you’re selling a mid century house, you want someone who appreciates its value and knows how to market it. If you’re buying something unique, you want someone who can spot red flags in addition to any hidden potential.
Ask:
Have you sold homes like mine before?
Have you helped buyers find the type of home I’m looking for before?
What features do buyers typically look for in homes like this?
4. Can you walk me through your process?
Why it matters:
Great agents don’t just open doors or write offers—they guide you through every stage of the process, from paperwork and inspections to strategy and timelines.
Ask:
What’s the typical timeline from listing to close/offer to move-in?
How do you help clients navigate the unexpected (appraisal issues, buyer financing delays, etc.)?
What are some things I might not know to expect?
Listen for clarity, organization, and realistic expectations.
5. How do you communicate with your clients?
Why it matters:
You want someone who’s accessible, responsive, and keeps you updated. Set communication expectations upfront.
Ask:
How quickly do you typically respond to messages?
Do you prefer text, phone, or email?
How often will I hear from you during the process?
6. What’s your marketing strategy if I’m selling?
Why it matters:
The best agents don’t just stick your home on the MLS and wait. They use photos, staging, storytelling, and social media to get your home in front of the right people.
Ask:
Do you provide staging or styling help?
Do you work with a professional photographer?
How do you promote listings?
A strong social media presence or particular niche of homes within the agent’s repertoire (like my Instagram account, @MidModUtah) can get your home in front of more qualified buyers faster.
7. How do you handle negotiations?
Why it matters:
Real estate is about more than price—it’s about timing, repairs, contingencies, and getting the right terms. A great agent knows how to protect your interests.
Ask:
What’s your negotiation style?
How do you approach multiple-offer situations?
Can you give me an example of a tough negotiation you helped resolve?
8. How do you get paid?
Why it matters:
Sellers typically pay both agents' commissions, but it’s good to understand how the money flows. And if you’re selling, you’ll want to be clear on any additional marketing costs or fees.
Ask:
What are your commission rates?
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
9. What happens if I decide not to move forward?
Why it matters:
Before signing a contract, you’ll want to understand your options. If circumstances change or it doesn’t feel like the right fit, what happens?
Ask:
What’s the length of your listing agreement/buyer agreement?
What happens if I decide to pause or switch agents?
10. What makes you passionate about real estate?
Why it matters:
This one’s a little softer, but it tells you a lot about how someone works. You’re hiring a teammate for one of the biggest decisions of your life. You want someone who cares.
Listen for:
Do they light up when they talk about helping clients?
Do they speak with pride, not just numbers?
Do they feel like someone you could trust in a high-stress moment?
What to Listen for:
Do they answer your questions confidently and clearly?
Do they listen as much as they talk?
Do they focus on you, or mostly talk about themselves?
Do they follow up afterward with info or next steps?
In Closing (Get It?)
Whether you’re buying or selling, your real estate agent should never make you feel rushed, judged, or confused. This is your decision—and you deserve someone who respects your pace, explains the process, and genuinely cares about the outcome.
I’d love to be part of your journey, as long as you feel I’m a good fit for you. You can:
Follow @MidModUtah to see how I work in real time
DM me anytime with questions you may have
I’m looking forward to hearing how I can support you!
