Hiring the right Realtor is one of the most important decisions you'll make when selling your home. In Ventura alone, there are over 2,000 licensed agents, but in 202, we are on track to sell only about 600 homes . That means many agents won't close a single deal this year.
To get the best possible outcome, you'll want to hire a full-time, professional Realtor, someone who knows the market, has a proven track record, and can guide you through every step of the process. But how do you find the right person for the job?
Simple: ask the right questions.
Below is a list of essential questions you should ask any Realtor you’re considering hiring to sell your home:
1. How many transactions do you close each year?
Instead of asking how long they’ve been licensed, ask how many homes they actually sell each year. Someone may have 20 years in the business but close only one sale every 18 months. That’s not the kind of experience that keeps an agent sharp. You want someone who is active in the current market, up to date on contract changes, and experienced in modern marketing strategies.
2. How do you determine the right listing price for my home?
Pricing a home correctly is part art, part science. A great agent will explain how they analyze “comps”, aka the comparable sales nearby with similar features, and how factors like timing, location, and market demand influence pricing. They should also show you how they’ve priced other homes and how their strategy has led to successful sales.
3. How do you help me prepare my home for sale?
An experienced Realtor won’t just stick a sign in your yard. They’ll walk through your home and suggest specific improvements like repainting bold-colored walls, trimming landscaping, decluttering, or rearranging furniture. The goal is to make your home appealing to the widest range of buyers and get the highest possible price.
4. What is your marketing plan for my property?
The best agents don’t rely solely on the Multiple Listing Service or MLS. They offer professional photography and videography to make your home shine online. They use targeted digital ads across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google. They might also feature your home in local print ads, send postcards to nearby homes, and host well-attended open houses. Ask to see examples of their past marketing efforts.
5. What happens if my home doesn’t sell in the first 30 days?
Some agents will push for a price reduction right away, but that’s not always the right move. A seasoned agent will know how long homes typically take to sell in your neighborhood and can advise if changes to the price or marketing plan are truly needed.
6. How often will you communicate with me? What about the buyer’s agent?
Clear and consistent communication makes the process less stressful. Ask how frequently they’ll update you on showings, feedback, and market activity. Once in escrow, they should be proactive in communicating with the buyer’s agent, escrow officer, and any other parties to keep everything on track.
7. Are there any additional fees I should know about?
Some brokerages charge extra transaction or administrative fees. Make sure everything is disclosed up front, so you know your true bottom line after commissions and closing costs. A trustworthy agent will be transparent and walk you through a full breakdown of what to expect.
Final Thoughts
By asking these key questions, you’ll be in a much stronger position to choose the right Realtor: someone who brings experience, a strategy, and strong communication to the table.
Want the complete list of questions to ask during your Realtor interviews?
Email me at [email protected] and I’ll send it over.
