Questions Sellers Should Ask in Agent Interviews:

1. Is your license in good standing?

You can check an agent's certification yourself with your state's department of real estate. Avoid working with an agent whose license is not in good standing.

2. How many years of education and experience do you have?

Experience and continuing education typically make for better agents.

3. 3. How many homes have you sold in my neighborhood?

An agent who specializes in the area in which you are selling your home is preferable. This agent will be the most familiar with recent sales activity and will be able to recommend a good market price for your home.

4. At what price do you think my home can sell given the current market?

This will allow the agent to display his knowledge of your market.

5. How many other sellers are you representing now?

The busiest agents often are the most efficient.

6. Will you handle all aspects of my transaction or will you delegate some tasks to a sales associate or administrative assistant?

A knowledgeable assistant can be invaluable, but make sure that you can connect with your agent when you need to.

7. How much can I expect to pay?

Commissions are negotiable depending on what kind of listing arrangement you have with your agent.

8. Can you give me a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) of recent sales in the area and homes currently on the market?

This should contain listing and sales prices for recently sold homes as well as sales prices and the listing date of homes currently for sale. It also should include detailed property descriptions (such as square footage and numbers of bedrooms and baths).

9. What does your marketing package contain in addition to a Comparative Market Analysis?

Listing presentations should also include a suggested asking price for your home, information on the local housing market, advertising plans, a discussion of various listing agreements, and an analysis of sale proceeds at various price points and commission levels.

10. Can I list my house with you for 60 to 90 days?

Most consumer experts agree that a three-month listing period, or less, is best. You can always renew the listing agreement at that time.

11. Where will you advertise my home for sale to attract buyers?

Most agents will provide you with a list of newspaper outlets and Internet web sites where they will pay to advertise your home in order to sell it within your timeframe.