Whether you're buying or selling a house, you don't want to go into it all willy-nilly and just hire anyone - especially when mortgage rates range between the higher end of 2% and the lower end of 3%. Like when you're looking for a lender who can offer you the best interest rates, you'll want to take your time and interview a real estate agent to make sure you'll be working with someone who knows their stuff. This is especially true if you have a unique situation like sell a house with code violations or you recently got divorced.

Prior to contacting agents, you'll want to have a prepared list of questions you'll want to ask. Here are our top five points that you'll want to have on that list.

1. How long have you been an agent?

Employers aren't the only ones who want to hire people with some experience under their belts. As someone looking to hire a real estate agent in Arizona, you'll want to find a seasoned agent because they'll know the tricks of the trade and how the local market ebbs and flows. 

Granted, this doesn't mean that fresh agents aren't going to be good agents. Experienced agents may have a big client list and it could be difficult to get in touch with them, whereas a newer agent may have more time to dedicate to your needs.

2. What is your average listing price to sales price ratio?

This is an important question because it will give you an indication of their negotiation skills. As a seller, you'll want an agent who has a record of getting a house sold at or close to listing price. As a buyer, you'll want an agent who can negotiate a lower price for you, the client. 

Keep in mind that the market value doesn't always have an effect on listing price, which makes the ratio less important. Still, it's a good thing to know.

3. Can you provide references?

Unless the agent you're interviewing has a bunch of reviews online or they've been in the business for decades, you should ask for them for a few references with whom you can get in touch with. Ask the agent if they are related to the reference and whether or not the reference would be able to answer any questions you may have about their experience working the the agent in question. 

4. What are your plans for marketing my property?

In the age of the Coronavirus, real estate agents have had to adapt to the unique challenges they were facing. As a result, agents have relied heavily on technology to show houses virtually, either by video conferencing a walkthrough, posting 3D tours, or hosting virtual open houses. 

Ask the agent what's their marketing strategy to get people interested in your property. Will they post the listing on local Facebook groups? Will they take out ads in the newspaper or even do a direct mail campaign? And, more importantly, ask them how often they will advertise your property.

5. Can I review documents before signing?

Prior to signing any contracts with an agent, ask to see the important documents (a buyer's broker agreement if you're a buyer or the agency disclosure, listing agreement and seller disclosure if you're selling)  so you can take a look at them before you actually sign. Now, they don't have to give them to you right at the interview, but a good agent should have no problem agreeing to this and providing you with the documents at another date. 

Real estate has had its ups and downs over the past year, but now that things are stabilizing, it may be a good time to consider venturing into the market. Whether you're ready to buy or you're interested in selling, you're going to need a real estate agent to ensure you get the best deal that you can!