What to Look for in a Listing Agent: Advice from Buy Georgia Realty

Selling your home is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make, and choosing the right listing agent is critical to your success. At Buy Georgia Realty, we believe that knowledge, strategy, and a personal connection are more important than just years of experience. A 20+ year veteran isn't necessarily the best choice unless they are actively selling and succeeding in today’s market. Here's what every seller should ask when selecting the right agent to represent their home.

1. How Many Homes Have You Listed and Sold Recently?

Activity is a strong indicator of an agent’s expertise and relevance in the current market. When interviewing potential agents, ask how many homes they've listed and sold in the past 12 months.

• Why This Matters:
  An agent actively working with multiple clients is likely more in tune with current market trends, buyer behavior, and competitive pricing strategies.

• Example Response to Look For:
  If an agent says they've listed 30 homes and sold 25, that demonstrates a solid success rate and their ability to close deals efficiently. If they’ve listed only a few homes or sold very few, consider whether they truly have the expertise to meet your goals.

2. What is Your Marketing Strategy?

Marketing is key to attracting buyers and maximizing your home’s exposure. Ask agents to explain their marketing plan in detail.

• Questions to Ask:

  • Will you use professional photography and staging?
  • Do you offer virtual tours or drone videos?
  • How do you leverage social media and online listings?
  • What platforms will my home appear on, and how will you target buyers?

• What to Look For:
  An exceptional agent will have a well-thought-out strategy that includes digital and traditional marketing techniques, tailored to your property and its unique features.

3. How Will You Price My Home?

Pricing is one of the most critical factors in selling a home quickly and at the best possible price. An agent should use data and expertise to guide this decision.

• Why This Matters:
  Overpricing can scare off buyers, while underpricing could leave money on the table. A skilled agent will perform a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and adjust for current market trends.

• Questions to Ask:

  • How did you determine this price point?
  • How do you handle price adjustments if the market shifts?

4. What is Your Communication Style?

Selling a home is a collaborative effort, and clear communication is crucial.

• Questions to Ask:

  • How often will you update me on showings and feedback?
  • Do you prefer phone, email, or text?
  • How quickly can I expect responses from you?

• What to Look For:
  An agent who communicates effectively and aligns with your preferences will make the process smoother and less stressful.

5. What is Your Knowledge of the Local Market?

Real estate is hyperlocal. An agent who knows your area can highlight its best features to potential buyers.

• Why This Matters:
  Buyers often make decisions based on neighborhood perks, such as schools, parks, and amenities. An agent familiar with these details can position your property as the perfect fit.

• Questions to Ask:

  • What do you know about schools, shopping, and recreation nearby?
  • What recent sales in the neighborhood are comparable to my home?

6. Do You Work with a Team or Independently?

Agents with a supportive team may offer added resources like marketing experts, transaction coordinators, and staging professionals.

• What to Look For:
  Understand how their team structure benefits you. For example, a team might allow the agent to focus on negotiations while others handle administrative tasks.

7. Why Should I Choose You?

Finally, ask agents to share why they believe they’re the best fit for your needs. This is their chance to sell themselves.

• What to Listen For:
  Look for passion, confidence, and clear examples of their success. Be cautious of vague or generic responses.

Experience is Important, but Results Matter More

It’s a common misconception that agents with decades of experience are automatically the best. While experience can be valuable, an agent's current activity and success in today’s market are far more important. Real estate changes constantly, and you need someone who adapts and thrives in this environment—not someone relying on outdated methods.

Why Buy Georgia Realty?

At Buy Georgia Realty, we pride ourselves on being active, engaged, and results-driven. Our agents stay ahead of market trends, use cutting-edge marketing strategies, and maintain clear communication with our clients. We understand that selling your home is a personal and financial milestone, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If you're considering selling your home, we’d love the opportunity to show you how we can deliver results. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and get your questions answered.

Ready to get started? Contact Buy Georgia Realty and let us help you make the most of your home sale.