QUICK ANSWER
Why interview your agent?
A realtor is your advocate in one of life’s biggest transactions. MarketSocal’s guide recommends asking ten specific questions to gauge an agent’s experience, track record, communication style, strategy and fees. Knowing how many transactions they’ve closed, who will handle your file, what sets them apart and how they approach pricing and negotiation can reveal whether they’re a good match. Don’t be shy. A top agent welcomes your questions and responds with transparency and confidence.
Here are eight more questions to add to your interview, each with a note on why it matters:
How many of your buyer clients were in multiple-offer situations last year, and what percentage won? This tells you whether they know how to write a competitive offer without overpaying. An agent who helps buyers win offers at list price or below is more valuable than one who wins by encouraging you to bid 10% over.
What is your list-to-sale price ratio for buyers? This is the number that most buyers forget to ask and most agents are not tracking closely enough to answer quickly. If the agent cannot tell you this without looking it up, ask them to email it to you before you commit.
How do you handle a situation where I find a For Sale By Owner property I want to buy? Some agents will not show FSBOs or will negotiate their commission in a way that adds cost to your transaction. You want an agent who can navigate this cleanly without it becoming your problem.
Can I choose my own lender, or do you work exclusively with specific lenders? A good buyer's agent has preferred lenders they trust but does not require you to use them. Be cautious of any agent who says the transaction only works with their in-house lender.
Do you use a transaction coordinator? A TC handles paperwork, deadlines, and coordination between parties after your offer is accepted. Agents who work with TCs tend to have smoother closings because nothing falls through on administrative details.
How do you communicate during a fast-moving offer situation? Get a specific answer here: call, text, email, and how quickly. "I'll keep you updated" is not an answer.
What happens if we disagree during the process? A good agent has a clear and direct answer. They are not afraid of this question because they have navigated disagreements professionally before.
Can I speak to a reference from a buyer you represented in the past six months? Emphasize the recent timeframe. The market from two years ago is not the market your agent will be navigating with you today.