This is a list that hasn’t changed much since Hannibal
first considered getting a larger place for his elephants. He decided that the
Roman Empire would be a fine choice (but history tells us that the move didn’t
work out).
If Hannibal had consulted a knowledgeable Roman real estate
agent, he might have chosen a more suitable property, and history would be
different. Hiring the right agent can be pretty important—and choosing the
right agent means asking some good questions.
Here’s a list of five questions to pose when interviewing Metairie
real estate agents. It doesn’t come with a crib sheet, because there aren’t any
perfectly correct answers. If there were such a thing, sooner or later all the interviewees
would know them.
Instead, this list is intended to provide a simple way to
compare the candidates’ responses—at the same time, providing some essential information
about the current state of the Metairie real estate market. Along the way, you
should get a chance to sample how well you and each agent communicate. Was your
question understood? Was the answer clear? It’s vital that you and your representative
stay on the same wavelength. Here’s the list:
1.
How
long have you worked in real estate—and how long in Metairie?
Knowing
the nooks and crannies of our Metairie’s real estate market is one of the most
important qualities a Realtor®
can bring to the effort. Experience in the industry is the surest way to head
off technical hitches before they can cause trouble.
2.
What’s
your best guess about how long it will take to sell my property?
The
current average DOM (Days On the Market) for Metairie homes in your category
are only a general guide for what to expect—and a canny real estate agent will
explain that as part of the answer. If the topic of the asking price becomes a
part of the discussion, you’re on the right track: one is closely related to
the other.
3.
How
will you go about marketing my home?
The
advertising media should include web and print initiatives. If the candidate
has brought recent samples to show you, it displays good professionalism.
4.
Will
you take professional photographs of the property?
Quality
photography is essential to any serious campaign, so letting potential real
estate agents know that you understand its importance does double service. The
agent will be on notice that you prioritize this aspect of sale preparation,
and will also know that you will be diligent in readying the property for a
good shoot.
5.
How
successful have you been over the past year?
Knowing
how many homes an agent has sold recently is important, as is a follow-up
question like: “How many didn’t sell?”
If the agent has cogent reasons why they didn’t sell, or offers how a different
approach might have helped, those too can be relevant indicators. An agent who is
analytical and open to new ideas can be a good partner.
It’s always good practice to
interview more than one Metairie real estate agent before settling on your final
choice. I hope you plan to include me in the mix!
Terez B. Harris
Keller Williams Realty New Orleans
504 975 1033
TerezHarris@KW.com
TerezSellsNolaHomes.com
8601 Leake Ave., New Orleans, La 70118
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