How to Choose a Real Estate Agent for Selling Your Home: A 10-Step Checklist

Selling your home is a significant financial decision, often requiring expert guidance. To ensure you select the right real estate agent, follow this concise checklist.

1. Compare agents online

    Use tools like HomeLight’s Agent Match to find highly rated agents based on:

•    A high volume of home sales in your price range
•    High sale-to-list price ratio
•    Lower than-average days on the market
•    Top-rated client reviews

2. Get referrals from trusted sources

•     Ask family, friends, or colleagues for recommendations based on their experiences with agents.

3. Look for red flags

Signs of a sub-par agent include:

• Limited sales experience or vague results
• Mediocre marketing skills
• Part-time status (may lack availability)
• Pushy behavior or hidden agendas
• Lack of local market knowledge
• Poor negotiation skills

4. Decide what’s important to you

• Consider your preferences regarding communication style and the level of involvement you want in the selling process.

5. Do advance in-person reconnaissance

• Observe agents in your neighborhood by noting “Sold” signs and attending open houses to gauge their professionalism and knowledge.

6. Interview at least three agents

   Prepare questions covering:

•    Experience and local market knowledge
•    Unique selling propositions
•    Client load and service inclusions
•    Anticipated challenges in selling your home 

7. Identify relevant certifications and specialties

• Ensure the agent holds an active real estate license and check for additional training relevant to your needs.

8. Ask about their selling strategy

• Discuss their marketing plans, timelines, and approach to pricing your home.

9. Review the Final Agent Selection checklist

   [ ] Is the agent licensed in my state?

   [ ] Does the agent have relevant training/certifications?

   [ ] Am I comfortable with their communication style?

   [ ] Do they demonstrate integrity and professionalism?

   [ ] Are they familiar with my neighborhood?

   [ ] Do they have experience with my specific needs?

   [ ] Do they have a positive reputation?

   [ ] Have they built a local professional network?

   [ ] Do they have proven results?

   [ ] Are they experienced negotiators?

   [ ] Did they answer my questions satisfactorily?

   [ ] Did they provide an up-front quote in writing?

10. Select your agent and sell your home

• Trust your instincts when choosing an agent, as this relationship will be crucial during the sale process. If doubts arise, don’t hesitate to reassess your choice.

This checklist is designed to help you find a qualified real estate agent who will effectively represent your interests throughout the selling process. For more detailed insights, refer to the original article on HomeLight.com.