Top Questions to Ask Edmonton REALTORS® when Selling
With so many types of residential real estate, Edmonton REALTORS® are beginning to specialize in a wide range of residential fields. Over the last decade, there have been ample changes in the business and specializing has become the norm. These fields can range from buyer agency, infills and new builds, luxury homes, seniors, military relocations, condominiums, foreclosures, etc. There are over 3500 real estate agents licensed with the Edmonton Real Estate Board, most actively practising, allowing homeowners several choices finding an agent who can properly target market your property.
Below are the top 5 questions to ask Edmonton REALTORS®
How long have you been in the business?
You may have found an agent online, because they are tech-savvy, but may lack experience. An "old-time" REALTOR® may have several years of experience but lack the marketing knowledge they need to expose your property to qualified buyers. A long time in the business is a benefit because it creates the experience. Agents who have been in the business for a few decades have experience in both good and bad markets and will know how to adjust. These REALTORS® usually have larger databases, are the most creative and think outside the box.
Do you have another part-time job?
Listen carefully to the answer. Agents who are not full time, may not be as motivated to get your home sold. Real Estate is an expensive business with company fees, licences, photographers, graphic designers, vehicle maintenance, office tools, conveyancing fees, signage, desk fees, websites, internet syndication systems, etc. Every REALTOR® must be full-time to join our REMAX team to ensure our client's top-notch service.
How do you prefer to communicate and how often?
This is a two-way question. As licensed real estate agents in the province of Alberta, we are obligated to work in our clients best interest. This means, if you prefer to be notified of showings via phone calls, emails or text messages, your agent will need to know this - this is part of our fiducuary duties. Some agents will only send you a text and assume you received it. Ask how often you will be notified of feedback from other agents who have shown your home. You do not want an agent to list your home and you don't hear from them until either you receive an offer or your home is about to expire. Select an agent who communicates well to eliminate confusion.
Do you do Open Houses?
Not all real estate agents do open houses. If you live in an apartment condominium, it may also not be allowed. - Check your bylaws! Some REALTORS® love doing open houses because it gives them the opportunity to pick up more buyers and sellers. Some agents prefer not to due to the fact they are responsible for every person entering your home during the time allocated.
Other Questions you may also want to ask include
- Education. Ask about degrees and certifications.
- Do you work with your buyers under a buyer brokerage agreement?
- How many transactions have you been involved with in your entire career?
- How many transactions have you handled year-to-date?
- Have you ever been subject to disciplinary action?
- Are you a listing agent or a buyer's agent?
- What price range do you generally work in?
- Do you have a network of other productive agents which you work with?
- What would you say are your strongest attributes as an agent?
If you have a selling question, feel free to ask. We are here to help.
