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Step 1
Ask A Friend. Ask an associate, family member, friend, or neighbor who recently sold a property who they used. Especially once the sale is done, this person can speak freely about the agent or broker they used.
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Step 2
Go Local. While your sister-in-law may hold her real estate license in the one part of the state, if you are looking to sell in a different town it is not wise to have her take the listing. If the towns are close enough then it is fine, but generally local agents have a better pulse on the local market they work in. Also, consider that showings will be easier for local agents (ask them where they live!)
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Step 3
Commission. Ask what the company policy is for commission. The difference between 5% and 6% may not be a lot for you, but the difference between 4% and 6% may matter. This should go into the company you choose because it will affect your bottom line. Just because a company charges more than another does not mean they will do a better job.
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Step 4
Advertising. Ask what the company does for advertising. See what websites they are on, what publications they buy in. Compare the different companies with a chart.
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Step 5
Go With Your Gut. If you like the agent off the bat, chances are it is a match. Do the follow up questions, but remember, you will be in close contact with this person for several months. It is important that you trust and like that person, not just that they sell your home.
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Step 6
Stats. Ask the agent how long they have been in the business. Ask about number of sales and his/her rank in the company. Consider this in your decision, but do not SOLELY base your decision on this. Remember, agents can become overloaded with listings and when yours is only one in a sea of many it does not get serviced as well.
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Step 7
Meet the Manager. Even if you have chosen the agent, it is a good idea to meet the manager or owner of the company. If any issues arise during the sale of your property, it is he or her that you will be dealing with. The manager, or Broker of Record, is a good indicator of how "the ship is run" and will give you clues as to if it is the right match for you.
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Step 8
Go With Your Gut. If you like the agent off the bat, chances are it is a match. Do the follow up questions, but remember, you will be in close contact with this person for several months. It is important that you trust and like that person, not just that they sell your home.
