When it comes to selling your home, your success doesn’t start with the first showing—it starts with your very first conversation with a real estate agent.

Too often, sellers focus only on commission rates or the listing price. While those are important, they’re just the tip of the iceberg. The real question is: Are you hiring someone who’s truly equipped to protect your interests, maximize your return, and guide you through one of life’s biggest financial decisions?

Here are 8 essential questions you must ask before you sign a listing agreement with any agent:

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1. What is your marketing strategy?

Your agent’s plan for marketing your home will directly influence how many buyers see it—and how much they’re willing to pay. Ask for specifics:

• Will they use professional photography?
  
• Do they have a digital campaign across major platforms?
  
• How will they create urgency and emotional appeal?
  

You deserve a proactive, customized plan—not a “post and pray” approach.

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2. How will you help me price my home to get top dollar without scaring buyers away?

Pricing is a strategy, not a guess. You want an agent who uses deep market knowledge and data—not just comps and “gut feel.” The right price attracts serious buyers while protecting your upside. It’s a balance of science and psychology.

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3. How do you protect me from buyers whose financing might fall through?

A buyer with a mortgage contingency can walk away if their loan isn’t approved. Ask your agent how they screen buyers, structure contracts, and protect you from wasted time and potential heartbreak.

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4. How do you handle multiple offers so I don’t lose all my buyers?

In a bidding war, mishandling communication or negotiations can backfire fast. Your agent should have a clear, ethical, and effective process to keep buyers engaged and avoid scaring them off.

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5. Is now the best time to list my property? Why—or why not?

Timing can mean everything. A skilled broker will assess current market trends, seasonal factors, and buyer activity—not just say, “Sure, let’s go!” They’ll tell you why it’s the right moment—or when it could be better.

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6. What services will I receive from you—and how does that differ from discount brokers?

Not all agents (or firms) are created equal. Ask what you’re really getting:

• Will you have professional staging?
  
• Do they manage the transaction from start to finish?
  
• Is negotiation their superpower or their weak spot?
  

Discount brokers may offer fewer services or less experience—and it could cost you much more in the end.

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7. Why are you the best person for the job?

This is your chance to hear what sets them apart. Listen closely for evidence of past success, communication style, commitment, and values. Trust your instincts. Do they sound like someone you’d want by your side through this process?

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8. Is there anything else I should be asking you?

A great agent won’t shy away from this question. In fact, they’ll welcome it. Their answer will show you how thorough, honest, and client-focused they really are.

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Final Thought:

The right agent will not only answer these questions—they’ll invite them. Because selling a home isn’t just about dollars. It’s about trust, strategy, and peace of mind. Ask the hard questions. Hire wisely. And remember: a successful sale begins long before the “For Sale” sign goes up.

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Need help evaluating a broker—or wondering if now’s the right time to sell? I’d love to talk. Let’s set up a time to connect!