Key Questions to Ask a Realtor Before Starting the Home Buying Process

by Aura Pou

Experience and Expertise
- How long have you been working as a real estate agent?
- How familiar are you with the neighborhoods I’m considering?
- Do you specialize in working with first-time homebuyers, move-up buyers, or luxury properties?
Market Knowledge
- What’s the current state of the local real estate market?
- Are we in a buyer’s or seller’s market right now?
- How quickly are homes selling in my desired area?
Home Search Process
- How will you help me identify homes that meet my needs?
- What tools or platforms do you use for finding available properties?
- How many homes should I expect to view before making an offer?
Budget and Financing
- Can you recommend trusted mortgage lenders or brokers?
- How much should I budget for closing costs, inspections, and other fees?
- What’s the best strategy for staying within my budget during the search?
Negotiation and Offers
- How do you approach negotiating the best price for your clients?
- What strategies do you use to make my offer stand out in a competitive market?
- How do you handle counteroffers and multiple-offer situations?
Inspections and Due Diligence
- Can you recommend reliable home inspectors or specialists?
- What should I look out for during the home inspection process?
- How do you handle issues that arise during inspections?
Communication and Availability
- What’s your preferred method of communication (phone, email, text)?
- How often will you update me on new listings or progress?
- Will I be working with you directly or with a team?
Closing Process
- What’s involved in the closing process, and how will you guide me through it?
- How long does it typically take to close on a home in this market?
- What should I do to prepare for closing day?
Post-Sale Support
- Can you recommend contractors, movers, or other service providers?
- Will you be available for questions or advice after the purchase is complete?
- Do you offer any follow-up services to ensure client satisfaction?
Client References and Track Record

- Can you provide references from past clients?
- What’s your success rate in helping buyers close on their desired homes?
- Do you have testimonials or reviews I can read?

This comprehensive list will help buyers evaluate a realtor's qualifications, communication style, and compatibility with their needs.

As a realtor in the Houston Suburbs for over 20 years, I bring strong negotiation & interpersonal skills to the table. To learn more about how I can help you buy or sell your home, get in touch.

Sugar Land Richmond TX Realtor