Whether buying or selling a property, the right real estate agent can make all the difference. Relying on the expertise and market knowledge of your professional real estate agent can go a long way toward making your real estate transaction significantly less stressful.  

Here are our top questions to ask your realtor when buying a new home. 

What experience do you have as a real estate agent?  

While experience doesn’t always translate into knowledge and quality of service, an experienced real estate agent brings much more to the table than someone just starting. They know the market, which can help you negotiate a fair but competitive price for your new home. Experienced agents also have often “seen it all” and can typically anticipate problems before they arise. 

At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, we have over 60 years of combined experience in Central Ohio real estate, our team values maintaining the highest level of professionalism and an extensive knowledge of the local market, including schools, communities, and unique aspects of the area. 

Do you work with both Buyers and Sellers?  

An agent with experience working with both buyers and sellers is an advantage, as they fully understand the ins and outs of both sides of the transaction. A client-centric approach ensures the real estate agent provides outstanding service to both buyers and sellers, prioritizing the needs and dreams of each client, regardless of the property’s price point. 

Have you helped Buyers find homes in this community or neighborhood?  

This local expertise allows your real estate agent to provide valuable insights, helping you make informed decisions about buying or selling properties. A good real estate agent will know about everything happening in the local market. Although federal fair housing laws prohibit real estate agents from commenting on the demographics of a neighborhood, your agent can still give you advice on whether you’re making a solid investment, based on local housing market trends, comparable home prices in the neighborhood, and community development projects that could affect home values. 

Will I be working directly with you or a team member? 

Many agents work as part of a team, which allows for comprehensive support and expertise for clients throughout the real estate process. Clear communication with the agent on what your expectations are will help avoid any uncomfortable conversations in the process of your home search. Effective agents pay attention to the way you prefer to communicate and respond accordingly. 

How does your commission work?  

Recent changes to commission rules by the NAR make this an especially important question. As of Aug. 17, 2024, real estate agents are required to enter into a written agreement with buyers that outlines exactly what services will be provided and for how much. These written agreements are required before any home tours, live or virtual, occur. 

Can you recommend a lender, title agency, home inspector, etc. in the area?  
 
Local expertise matters not only with the real estate agent you hire but also with the other professionals you could meet as you negotiate this real estate deal. The home buying and selling process is a complex financial transaction that requires the involvement of a variety of professionals. It is important to identify quality partners that you can rely on and your real estate agent should be a good resource for those individuals. 

What can I expect at closing?  
 
Closing has a lot of moving parts, so it’s a smart idea to be on top of what you need to be responsible for. Asking your realtor for a breakdown of what to expect can be helpful to keep your transaction on track and make it a little less stressful. 

What are possible obstacles to closing?  
 
Even when everything is done “right,” things can get off track with real estate transactions. An experienced real estate agent will be aware of what to watch for and, most importantly, how to get you to closing on your new home. Asking your real estate agent about obstacles that could arise can also help you feel more prepared — and give you time to come up with contingency plans just in case. 

At Vutech | Ruff, we tailor our approach to each client’s specific needs, lifestyle, and goals, providing not just a transaction but a comprehensive, client-focused real estate experience that goes beyond finding a house to creating a home and building lasting relationships with clients. Finding your dream home is one thing. Your dream experience is another. Contact us to discuss.