Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, so having the right realtor by your side is essential. But with so many options out there, how do you know which agent is the best fit for you? Here are five key questions to ask to help you narrow down your choices and ensure you’re partnering with a realtor who will prioritize your needs and guide you through a successful real estate journey.
1. “How Well Do You Know the Calgary Market?”
One of the most important things to look for in a realtor is their local expertise. Calgary’s real estate market is unique, and having an agent who truly understands the neighborhoods, market trends, and pricing nuances can make all the difference.
Why It Matters:
An experienced Calgary agent will have a pulse on the best communities, know the history of the local market, and be able to provide invaluable advice on where to buy or how to price your home.
What to Listen For:
Look for specific examples of properties they’ve sold in your area or insights on how the local market is performing. The more knowledgeable they are, the better equipped they’ll be to help you succeed.
2. “What’s Your Approach to Marketing and Selling a Home?”
If you’re selling, marketing can make or break your success. A good realtor should have a clear strategy for how they’ll market your home to attract buyers—both online and offline. Ask about their approach to photography, staging, digital marketing, and how they’ll get your property in front of the right audience.
Why It Matters:
Effective marketing not only showcases your home’s best features but also ensures it gets the visibility needed to sell quickly and at a great price.
What to Listen For:
Look for a multi-channel approach that includes professional photos, online listings, social media, and possibly even video tours or open houses. The more tools in their toolbox, the better!
3. “Can You Provide References or Share Client Testimonials?”
A great realtor should have a track record of satisfied clients who are happy to share their experiences. Ask for references or look up online reviews to see what past clients have to say about working with them.
Why It Matters:
Hearing directly from others can give you an honest perspective on what it’s like to work with the agent. Look for feedback on their communication, negotiation skills, and overall satisfaction.
What to Listen For:
Pay attention to reviews that speak to the realtor’s responsiveness, professionalism, and dedication. If the same positive themes come up repeatedly, you’re likely dealing with a reliable agent.
4. “What’s Your Availability Like?”
Real estate can move fast, and having an agent who is available when you need them is crucial. Ask about their availability, how they handle showings, and if they work with a team that can support you if they’re not immediately accessible.
Why It Matters:
If your agent is juggling too many clients or has limited availability, you might not get the attention your transaction deserves. Make sure they’re committed to being responsive and accessible throughout the process.
What to Listen For:
Honesty is key here. A good agent will be upfront about their availability and have a clear plan for ensuring you get the support you need, even during busy periods.
5. “What Do You Think Sets You Apart From Other Agents?”
This is a great way to get a sense of their unique strengths, values, and working style. Do they have strong negotiation skills? Do they specialize in a particular type of property? Are they known for their community involvement or client-first approach?
Why It Matters:
You want to choose someone who not only has the right skills but also aligns with your own values and expectations. This question can reveal a lot about their personality and what makes them stand out.
What to Listen For:
Look for an answer that feels authentic and specific to their experience, rather than a generic pitch. A good realtor will be proud to share what makes them different and how that benefits their clients.
Bonus Question: “What’s Your Communication Style?”
This may seem small, but it’s a biggie! Ask how they prefer to communicate (text, email, phone), how often they’ll check in, and what you can expect in terms of updates. Finding a realtor whose communication style matches yours will make the entire process smoother and less stressful.
Why It Matters:
Open and consistent communication is essential to keeping you informed and confident throughout the buying or selling journey.
What to Listen For:
Look for a realtor who is willing to adapt to your preferred style and frequency of communication. After all, this should feel like a partnership!