If you are in the market to buy a house it is a good idea to interview your potential Columbus GA Realtor. You wouldn’t trust any agent off the street, would you? Good agents are just as selective about their clients, too. Here are some questions to ask when interviewing a potential realtor.

How long have you been in the business?

Keep in mind there is nothing wrong with a newer agent. New agents have more time to devote to you and many have access to competent mentors. An experience agent can be a great asset while some agents who have been in the business repeat their first year over and over.

Will you provide references?

All agents should have references. Even new agents have references from previous employers. You can also ask if you can contact the references with questions. If the agent has a lot of online reviews you may not need to references.

What is your best marketing plan or strategy for my needs?

As a buyer, you will need to know:

How your agent will search for your new home?

Will I be competing against other buyers?

How do you handle multiple offers?

Do you present offers yourself?

As a seller, you will need to know:

How will you sell my home?

Where and how often do you advertise?

Will you show me a sample flyer?

How do you market online?

May I review documents before I am asked to sign?

A good real estate agent will make forms available to you for preview before you are required to sign them. If they are available ask for these forms up front.

As a buyer, ask for copies of the following:

• Buyer’s Broker Agreement
• Agency Disclosures
• Purchase Agreement
• Buyer Disclosures

As a seller, ask to see:

• Agency Disclosure
• Listing Agreement
• Seller Disclosures

Will you help me find other professionals?

Your agent should have a list of referring vendors such as mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and title companies.

How much do you charge?

Agents typically charge a percentage, from 1-4% to represent one side of a transaction: a seller or a buyer. A listing agent may charge, for example, 3.5% for herself and another 3.5% for the buyer’s agent, for a total of 7%.

Good luck choosing your Columbus GA Realtor!