22 Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent

No two real estate agents are the same. They provide different levels of service, varying working styles, skills, expertise, and personalities. When deciding which agent to work with, come prepared with a list of questions to ask each real estate agent. We prepared a list of our favorite questions to ask real estate agents to help you narrow down your search and find the right agent for you.

When considering working with an agent, ask them about their:

• General experience and qualifications
• Availability and working style
• Process management and client support
• Market knowledge and strategy
• Marketing and networking resources
• Reputation and client satisfaction
• Terms and fees

General experience and qualifications

1. How long have you been working in real estate?

Experience matters in real estate. Look for an agent with significant experience in relevant areas, whether from real estate or prior professional roles. This ensures they can effectively guide you through the process. When considering a newer agent, ask about their professional background. A previous career in sales, marketing, or negotiations are often transferable skills when it comes to navigating the real estate industry.

2. How many clients have you helped buy or sell homes in the past year?

This question reveals how successful the agent has been recently. An agent who has completed numerous transactions in the past year demonstrates that they’re currently engaged in the market and that their skills are sharp.

Full-time agents typically handle a range of transactions annually. Consider discussing the agent's current workload and client management style to ensure you'll receive sufficient attention. You can view an agent’s past home sales and total sales on their Zillow agent profile. 

3. Do you have any specializations?

Real estate is highly localized. An agent who specializes in your target area will have valuable insights about housing trends, school districts, and local amenities.

Similarly, different property types (condos, single-family homes, luxury properties, fixer-uppers) require different expertise. An agent who regularly handles properties similar to what you’re buying or selling will understand the unique considerations involved.

4. Do you have any professional designations?

Beyond the basic real estate license, many agents pursue additional education and certifications. These designations show a commitment to professional development and specialized knowledge. While credentials don’t guarantee performance, they can indicate dedication to the profession and specialized knowledge that might benefit your transaction. Some common designations may include:

• CRS (Certified Residential Specialist)
• ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative)
• SRS (Seller Representative Specialist)
• GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute). 

Availability and working style

1. How many clients are you actively working with right now?

While successful agents typically work with multiple clients simultaneously, you want someone who can be responsive to your needs. Consider how much support you may want from your agent throughout the process, and be upfront when interviewing them about the level of support you’re looking for.

There’s no perfect number, but if an agent is juggling more than 10-15 active clients, ask how they ensure each client receives sufficient attention. Many high-volume agents work with a team, which can be effective if roles and communication protocols are clearly defined.

2. What is the best way to reach you?

Clear communication is essential during real estate transactions. The buying and selling process can move fast. Ask whether they prefer calls, texts, or emails. Understanding your agent’s preferred communication methods will help you get the quickest response.

3. How quickly do you usually respond?

Inquire about the agent’s general availability and typical response time to set realistic expectations. A responsive agent should typically reply within a few hours during business days and have a system in place for urgent matters that arise evenings or weekends.

4. Will I be working with you directly, or with someone on your team?

Some agents work independently, while others operate with a team where different members handle specific aspects of the transaction. Neither approach is inherently better, but it’s important to know what to expect.

If you’ll be working with a team, ask to meet the key team members you’ll interact with and understand how responsibilities are divided. Ensure you’re comfortable with the communication flow and that important details won’t get lost between team members.

Process management and client support

1. What is your typical process once we start working together?

A professional agent should be able to outline a clear process tailored to your situation. You want to find an agent who is organized and systematic in their approach to make you feel more confident throughout the transaction.

2. Will you help me navigate the process?

Get clarity on how they navigate each stage of the process. Some agents are more hands-on, which is great for first-timers who may benefit from an initial consultation, regular check-ins, and clear explanations of each step. Other agents might take a more hands-off approach, which may be preferred by more experienced buyers and sellers. 

3. How do you handle unexpected challenges or delays during a transaction?

Even straightforward real estate transactions can encounter surprises. How an agent addresses these challenges often determines whether a deal succeeds or fails.

Ask for specific examples of how they’ve handled difficult situations in the past, such as financing issues, inspection problems, or appraisal shortfalls. Their answers should demonstrate problem-solving skills, creativity, and a network of resources they can call upon when needed.

4. How will you make this process less stressful for me?

Real estate transactions can be emotionally and logistically challenging. However, according to Zillow’s 2024 Housing Trends Survey, about half (50%) of buyers find their agent to be the most helpful resource in their home-buying experience. This highlights the important role agents play in navigating these challenges.

Ask for concrete examples, such as streamlined communication systems, transaction management tools, proactive problem-solving, or connections to service providers who can simplify the process. 

Want to reduce the stress of finding the right agent? Zillow’s partner agents are pre-vetted professionals ready to provide local expertise and guide you through every stage of buying a home or help you navigate your selling options.

Market knowledge and strategy

1. What trends are you seeing in the local housing market right now?

You want an agent who understands the current market to help you effectively find buyers for your home or find homes for sale. Their answer to this question should demonstrate awareness of recent changes in inventory, prices, days on market, and buyer/seller dynamics in your specific area.

A knowledgeable agent will go beyond generalities and share insights about how these trends might impact your particular situation, whether you’re buying or selling.

2. How do you determine the right listing price or offer price for a home?

As a buyer or seller, your primary goal is to seal the deal. However, you want to ensure that the home sale meets your ideal price point. Find an agent who incorporates data analysis, market conditions, property conditions, and competitive positioning into their valuation. Agents often provide: 

• Comparative market analysis (CMA) of recent similar sales
• Assessment of the property’s unique features and condition
• Analysis of market trends and seasonality
• Consideration of your specific goals and timeline

3. What’s your strategy for navigating a hot or slow market?

Different market conditions require different strategies. An experienced agent should adapt their approach based on whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market.

Your agent should clearly articulate how they adjust their approach to current conditions to ensure you remain competitive regardless of market conditions. Ask specifically what techniques they use to sell homes fast in a slower market, and how they find homes that fit within a buying budget in more competitive markets. You may be surprised by the agent’s creativity and marketing expertise.

Marketing and networking resources

1. What tools or marketing strategies do you use?

A comprehensive marketing strategy is essential in today’s real estate market. Ask about:

• Professional photography or video capabilities that highlight curb appeal and interior features
• Digital marketing across real estate platforms
• Social media promotion strategies
• Print materials and traditional marketing methods

Ask to see examples of their marketing materials for recent listings to assess quality and professionalism.

2. Do you network with other agents?

Agent-to-agent networking can uncover opportunities that never reach public listings. Well-connected agents often know about properties coming to market before they’re listed or properties that sellers prefer to sell privately.

3. Do you offer referrals?

An agent’s network can be invaluable for referrals to lenders, inspectors, contractors, and other professionals. According to Zillow’s 2024 Housing Trends Survey, about one in five buyers who financed with a mortgage found their lender through a referral from their real estate agent (19%). A robust network can streamline the entire process. 

Reputation and client satisfaction

1. Can you share reviews or testimonials from past clients?

Client testimonials provide insight into what it’s actually like to work with the agent throughout the transaction process. While most agents will highlight positive feedback, pay attention to specific details mentioned by past clients.

Ask for references you can contact directly, particularly from clients in situations similar to yours. A confident agent should readily provide these contacts. Follow up by asking these references about communication, negotiation skills, and how the agent handled any challenges.

You can find real estate agent reviews directly on Zillow through our directory.

2. What percentage of your business comes from referrals?

A high percentage of referral and repeat business generally indicates client satisfaction. Satisfied clients who recommend their agent to friends and family or return for future transactions are providing the strongest possible endorsement.

3. What sets you apart from other agents I might interview?

Rather than relying on generic claims about “great service,” get clarity from the agent about their specific differentiators that might benefit your transaction. These may include specialized market knowledge, unique marketing approaches, exceptional negotiation skills, or a strong professional network.

Terms and fees

1. How is your commission structured, and what does it include?

Understanding compensation structure helps you evaluate the value proposition and compare agents fairly. Commissions are often based on a percentage of the sale price. Ask for a clear breakdown of the agent’s commission structure, which typically includes fees for both the listing and buyer’s agent. Some agents offer tiered service packages at different price points, while others provide comprehensive service at a single commission rate. You can usually negotiate commission rates with your agent to settle on an ideal price.

2. Is there a written agreement or contract I need to sign with you?

Most real estate relationships are formalized through representation agreements. These contracts outline the terms of service, duration, compensation, and termination provisions.

Ask to review a sample agreement before meeting to prepare specific questions to ask the real estate agent. Pay particular attention to exclusivity requirements, duration, and early termination options. A professional agent should be willing to explain all contract terms clearly.

Learn more about buyer-agent agreements and types of listing agreements.

3. What happens if I decide to switch agents or pause the process?

Circumstances change, and sometimes the agent-client relationship isn’t the right fit. Understanding the exit provisions before signing an agreement is important. Ask specifically about the process and any potential costs or obligations if you need to terminate the relationship early. You’ll usually sign a contract, which should include terms regarding when a client or agent can terminate the agreement.

When finding the right agent to work with, there are no wrong questions to ask a real estate agent. Use this list of questions as a starting point to help you identify the right agent for your journey.