How to Choose the Right REALTOR®: 10 Questions from Reza Bahmani
Choosing the right REALTOR® can make a big difference in your home-selling experience. Before signing a listing agreement, ask these key questions to ensure you’re partnering with an agent who has the experience and market knowledge to help you succeed.
10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a REALTOR®
1. What are your professional credentials and affiliations?
Your real estate professional should be fully licensed in their province and may also be a REALTOR®, a designation requiring membership in the Canadian Real Estate Association. This provides access to the MLS® System, which helps list properties and connect them with buyers through major real estate websites.
2. How many homes have you sold in the past year?
An agent’s track record doesn’t guarantee a quick sale, but it does reflect their experience and consistency. Ask about recent sales, client experience, and price ranges. Look for someone with a proven ability to attract the right buyers and maximize value.
3. Do you specialize in my neighbourhood?
REALTORS® often specialize in specific neighbourhoods or property types, making local expertise a key factor when choosing an agent. An agent with in-depth knowledge of your area and current market trends can position your home more effectively.
Expert Tip: If they can’t sell the lifestyle of the neighbourhood, they’ll struggle to communicate the full value of your home
4. What is your average list-to-sale price ratio?
This ratio compares the final sale price to the original listing price. It can help you understand how effectively an agent prices and negotiates homes in your market. A top-tier listing agent should consistently sell homes close to (or above) the asking price.
5. Who will be my primary point of contact?
Some REALTORS® work independently, while others operate within a team. Clarify who will handle communication, negotiations, and updates throughout the process so you know exactly what to expect.
6. How do you handle multiple offers?
In competitive markets, multiple offers can happen. Ask how your agent evaluates offers, manages competing bids, and negotiates terms to achieve the best overall outcome - not just the highest price.
7. How do you navigate current mortgage rate fluctuations?
With variable rates stabilizing and fixed rates continuing to adjust, your agent should understand current financing conditions. Ask how they help buyers ensure strong pre-approval, and reduce the risk of deals falling through due to financing.
8. What is your digital marketing strategy?
Most buyers begin their search online. A strong marketing plan should include professional photography, staging guidance, virtual tours, drone footage (where appropriate), social media promotion, and exposure on major real estate platforms.
9. What are your fees and cancellation terms?
Transparency is critical. Discuss commission structures, marketing costs, and what happens if you’re not satisfied with the service. A confident agent will clearly outline all terms and offer flexibility where possible.
10. What is the expected timeline to sell my property?
While no REALTOR® can guarantee an exact sale date, they should be able to provide realistic expectations based on recent local sales data, market conditions, and your property type.
