Questions To Ask Agents
Remember, you are the owner of the property. You are considering employing an agent to sell your property. You are the boss. You have the power before you sign up. Make sure you keep that power at all times.
Fees and Values
1 - What price do you think you can sell my property for?
Most agents will try hard to hedge around this question. They may be vague and say such things as "It depends on the market," or they may use the common ploy of answering a question with a question, such as, "How much do you want?"
Sellers should stand firm and press the agent on this point by making such comments as:
2 - You are the agent, you sell lots of properties in this area, surely you know how much you can sell my property for – even if you have to give me a range. After all, you are the expert, aren't you?
3 - I plan to call several agents and get several quotes. Are you okay about that?
Once the agent has given a [verbal] quote, ask the following:
4 - Will you give me that quote in writing?
5 - Do you usually sell properties for the price that you quote the sellers?
Regardless of the answers, don't dwell too long on any point at this stage. Just keep the questions rolling…
6 - How much commission do you charge?
Most agents will talk about 'standard rates' or they will say that the rate is recommended by the Real Estate Institute – this is to soften the shock.
Sellers should make comments such as:
7 - Is your fee negotiable?
8 - Have you ever reduced your fee for anyone?
9 - If you should ask me to accept a lower price than the price you have quoted me, will you also accept a lower fee?