Ask These 10 Questions to Find the Right Realtor¨

1. How long have you been a Realtor¨?
Look for someone with a few years in the business. Willing to try a rookie? Ask if theyÕll receive hands-on help from a broker.

2. What neighborhoods do you specialize in?
They need to know home prices, schools, safety, public transportation and cultural amenities.

3. WhatÕs your schedule and availability?
Whether full-time or part-time, your Realtor¨ should guarantee that urgent matters will be addressed immediately.

4. Do you work independently or 
with a team?
Find out if youÕll be working exclusively with one person or if others may provide backup. 

5. WhatÕs your buying-to-listing ratio?
While most agents help both home buyers and sellers, the best tend to specialize in one or the other. 

6. How many homes did you help 
buy/sell in the past year?
Ask for specific numbers of closings and negotiation strategies. 

7. How long does it typically take buyers youÕve worked with to buy/sell a home?
If a Realtor¨ says it typically takes six months to a year, you could end up frustrated.

8. How will you determine what homes match my wish list?
A good buyerÕs agent provides clients with a questionnaire to pinpoint home-buying criteria. 

9. How many clients are you currently working with?
More than 10 clients might be too many to provide you with high-quality, one-on-one service.

10. How will you keep in contact with me during the process, and how often?
ItÕs best if your Realtor¨Õs preferred method of communication aligns with yours. Plus: Find someone whoÕll check in at least weekly (and daily in a fast-moving market).