Most sellers pick a listing agent based on a friendly conversation rather than a real interview. A few specific questions get you much further.
”What Have You Actually Closed Near Me Recently?”
Ask for real addresses and prices, not a general claim about experience in the area. An agent who’s genuinely active nearby should be able to name specific streets and recent numbers without hesitating.
”What’s Your Marketing Plan for My Specific Home?”
A generic answer (“we’ll list it on the MLS and hold an open house”) isn’t a plan. A real plan addresses your home’s specific strengths, likely buyer profile, and how photography, pricing, and timing will be handled for this property specifically.
”How Do You Handle Multiple Offers?”
This reveals real negotiating experience. A strong answer covers how they’d present competing offers to you, how they’d counsel you on escalation clauses or contingency waivers, and how they protect you from a deal falling apart after you’ve picked a winner.
”What’s Your Commission, and What Does It Include?”
Commission is negotiable, and it’s a completely normal question. Ask specifically what’s included: photography, staging consultation, marketing spend, and how the commission splits between your listing agent and a buyer’s agent.
”Can I Talk to a Recent Client?”
A real reference from a recent, comparable transaction tells you more than a testimonial on a website. Any agent confident in their work should be glad to connect you.
If you’d like to ask Efrat these questions directly before deciding whether she’s the right fit to list your home, get in touch.