Among all of the big decisions you’ll make regarding buying a home, you cannot understate the importance of choosing who will help you throughout your homebuying journey. Knowing the right questions to ask a Realtor can help you find the right expert for your situation.
A real estate professional who understands your needs, including the particular challenges of military life, can be a powerful ally in creating a positive homebuying experience. From moving across the country to having preferences regarding proximity to military installations and certain schools, military members require an experienced Realtor to help them find the perfect home.
Before you begin looking at homes, create a list of potential Realtors to interview. Taking the time to speak to a few real estate agents and get a feel for their professional approach will help you make an informed decision.
Once you’ve made your list from your research and recommendations, ask each Realtor these five key interview questions. Their answers to these questions for real estate agents will guide you to the right fit for you!
1. Are you a Realtor®?
At first glance, this question may confuse you. Are all real estate agents Realtors? The two terms “real estate agent” and “Realtor” are often used interchangeably, but they mean different things. All Realtors are real estate agents, but not all real estate agents are Realtors.
Once an individual passes their real estate exams, they have a choice to take their career further and join the National Association of Realtors. Once a real estate agent joins NAR, they are considered a Realtor®.
Having a Realtor on your team means that you are working with someone who is held to a higher standard within the real estate sector. They typically have access to a professional network that can significantly benefit you as their client.
Although you don’t have to work with a Realtor, it is a good box to check when vetting professionals for your homebuying journey.
2. What is your real estate agent commission?
Buying a home is an investment and an expensive one at that. Establish up front exactly what any Realtor-related expenses are, how they are determined and when they are due. Keep in mind that most real estate professionals belong to a brokerage that has policies and requirements regarding their commission fees.
While real estate commission fees may vary slightly from agent to agent, the person you work with probably shouldn’t charge a significant percentage higher than the rest of the professionals you interview.
Real estate agents work very hard for their clients and deserve to get paid for their time, resources and effort. However, anyone you work with should be very clear and upfront about how much it will cost to work with them.
More Like This: Want to know more about the ideal order of operations when it comes to buying a home? Check out our quick guide to the homebuying process!
3. How has this market changed in the past few years?
The housing market is ever-changing, and the real estate professional you work with should have updated information regarding the current market. Having a knowledgeable agent on your side also means you are working with a professional who knows how to properly navigate and negotiate according to the present real estate landscape.
Your real estate agent should be able to discuss the changes in the market with you in a knowledgeable way and articulate a clear strategy to help you achieve your real estate goals.
4. What do you need from me to make this go smoothly?
While you want to choose the right real estate agent for your needs, you also want to make sure you are doing everything you can to help them achieve a successful outcome. After all, buying a home is a team effort, and knowing what they need from you will help everything run smoothly.
Each agent will have their own workflow based on their first-hand industry experience. Ensuring their approach matches your preferences and needs will contribute to a more personalized real estate experience.
Ask your Realtor candidates whether they prefer to communicate digitally, by phone or in person, and how frequently they will expect to speak with or see you. You will also want to know how quickly they will expect you to respond and make important decisions.
5. What advice do you have for a buyer planning to use a VA loan?
If you plan to use your VA benefits to purchase your home, having a Realtor familiar with the VA loan process is essential. Whatever agent you choose to work with should be willing to work with you on finding a home that complies with VA loan requirements and meets your specific criteria.
Your real estate agent should have a positive attitude about your need to find a home that accommodates the unique elements of your VA loan. Your chosen agent should not try to talk you out of using your VA benefit just because they believe a different loan type may be more convenient for them.
More Like This: A real estate agent or Realtor familiar with the VA loan appraisal process will identify homes that may have issues that need addressing before a VA loan will be approved. They can save you time, money and energy in the long run.
Sign Up At AHRN to Find Your Next Home
Unlike other real estate platforms, AHRN specializes in connecting military members and Veterans with their ideal housing. From homes conveniently located near your next military installation to abodes perfectly suited for retired Veterans, we’re proud to serve the military community.
McKayla Strauss says
I hadn’t really thought to ask a realtor what they expect from you during the time you’re working with them. I can see how that could potentially clear up a lot of issues and make the whole process of finding and buying a house smoother. Getting a new home is something I’m planning on doing soon, so I’ll have to be sure to ask about that when I start looking for a good real estate agent to work with.
Kristen says
McKayla – it’s a great way to ensure that you and the realtor you are considering are a great fit! Everyone has their preferences and personal situation to balance so making sure you work well with your realtor can the dealbreaker on a smooth or challenging buying process!
Jeanine Gustin says
Hi. I am a realtor in Michigan and also a military widow (my husband died in 1998 while serving on active duty) I took the military relocation certification provided by the national association of realtors and it was a good start but unless you have bought, or sold a home using your VA or know what it is like to find a place to live in one weekend because of a change of duty station, you should get a realtor who knows what you are going through.
Kristen says
Jeanine – absolutely! Finding the right realtor is important aspect of the home search process, and someone familiar with the VA Loan process can be a tremendous asset. I’d love to have you check out our business directory as a way to connect with military families who could use your assistance! https://www.ahrn.com/ahrs_shell.php?page=register_rd&m=rd
Joey Walden says
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Joey Walden says
I love that you mention that buying a home is an investment. It really is something that cost money and too much worry for money probably means that it is not cut out for you at that point. You should have some leg room financially speaking if you are going to find a house. https://www.century21north.com
realtor san diego says
I am planning to buy a new home and therefore searching an expert realtor. I think these 5 questions will definitely help me in finding the right real estate agent. Thanks for sharing this blog Kristen, It will surely help a lot of people in choosing their realtor.
James Rodriguez says
That is a great article! I like your advice on having a realtor familiar with the VA loan process. I can see how that would be handy to have as a buyer. In my opinion, it's always best to seek professional help and to get educated when making decisions like these. https://www.valoanlending.com
Lisa says
Glad you found this article helpful! Good luck – have you seen our Military Home Buyer’s Guide? Download here: https://blog.ahrn.com/the-military-home-buyers-guide/
Veronica Marks says
I'm so glad you included asking about the Realtor's knowledge of market trends. I feel like it's so important for them to be aware of what is a good deal, but also when it is a good deal. That way, you know you have someone on your side who really can help you in the best ways possible! Thanks for a great article!
Kristen says
You are very welcome!
Adam Bockler says
Thanks for your article about how to choose the right real estage agent. I like how you mention that you should talk to your Realtor about what their workflow is like and the process the use. Finding a real estate agency that uses a style that fits well with your personality and preferences can help to create a mutually pleasant experience through what can be an emotional and stressful decision. I'll keep your tips in mind when I buy my first home.
Kristen says
I’m so glad it’s useful for you, Adam!
Ember Jones says
I like what you said about finding a realtor that is a good match for your needs. I've had people recommend realty companies to me and, although they were really good, they weren't good fit for me. Hopefully, i can find a company that is really easy for me to work with.
Kristen says
It definitely helps! Good look with your search, Ember.
Laurie says
This is great advice, thanks for the article. My husband and I used a real estate agent that was recommended to us, without interviewing anyone else. The real estate agent would send us houses that did not fit the criteria that we gave her. I had to tell her multiple times what we were specifically looking for, it was frustrating. It worked out in the end, but I didn’t feel like it should have been that difficult. I wish we would have talked to a few different real estate agents in the beginning and found the best fit.
Kristen says
Laurie – I’m sorry you have that experience. It definitely is a learning process!
Elden Gatley says
I agree that you should find out how much your real estate agent is going to charge. I think in some cases, higher price means quality. Other times, they’re just desparate for money and don’t really know what they’re doing.
Kristen says
Eiden – it’s definitely important to interview and research!
Kayla Rogers says
With something as important as buying a home, you definitely don’t want to work with the wrong real estate agent. I feel like it would be worth it to do lots of your own research. And then, like you say, go ahead and just interview them and see if they are a good fit before you move forward.
Kristen says
Definitely, Kayla!
Buy Property in mumbai says
Thank you very much for the information i really appreciate it. keep it up
Kristen says
You’re very welcome
Herman says
Hey Kristen,
You have elaborated really useful points as it is really important to find the best real estate agent in order to find our dream house. 🙂
in my opinion, a thorough research work is really important before hiring any agent. You can even take a li’l help from your friends, relatives or other knowns.
Internet can also be useful but mouth to mouth advice can be considered as genuine one.
Thumbs up buddy..!!!!!
Kristen says
Thank you, Herman
Hazel Owens says
I like your tip to ask about the realtor fees upfront and how they will be determined. Like you said, you don’t want to be slapped with unexpected fees after making such an expensive investment. Even if you want to avoid being rude, it’s best to ask your realtor straight up about their pricing and how it is determined so you’re both clear. Thanks for the article.
Kristen says
You’re very welcome, Hazel. You’re right, clear communication is best for everyone!
Maritza Galoppi says
Hello! I am a Realtor in the Doral area for the last 13 years. I had help Military families to find a homes close to work and provide information on schools in the area. I know Moving can be very stressful but if you have someone with expirience and knowledge of the area this can make a big difference . If you want to plan in advance and need any information about Doral rental market , Re-sales, New Constructions …
Vivian Black says
The tip to ask the question "what do you expect of me to make this go smoothly" was great and would really help the realtor-buyer relationship and make the process easier. The advice to make sure there won't be realtor fees you didn't expect was also very helpful. I thought these give questions were smart and helpful to making sure and find the right real estate agent.
Kristen says
Clear expectations are always a solid foundation to build a professional relationship on! Thanks for stopping in, Vivian!
Kristen says
Maritza – if you haven’t already, I’d encourage you to create free AHRN.com listings for your properties and list your information in our AHRN.com Business Directory so that military families moving to your area can find you!
Lora says
Thanks for this great article
Kristen says
You’re very welcome, Lora.
larissa says
Such a great article. Thanks for all the useful information! Buying a house is definitely an investment and I’m glad you pointed that out as it is always something to keep in mind when investing in real estate! Look forward to reading more on the matter!
Abélia says
It’s crazy to think that your choice in a realtor could end up determining your choice in a home. Thank you for providing information on how to find the right real estate agent. You’re right, it’s important to know about any realtor fees and expenses before hiring them.
Derek Mcdoogle says
You mentioned that each realtor will have their own workflow and preferences and making sure that their process is a good match for your needs, schedule and preferences lays the groundwork for a productive relationship. Do most realtors adjust their way of doing things depending on the situation? My brother is looking to sell his home because his job is relocating and is need of some help. Maybe hiring a professional to help him might be a good idea.
Kristen says
Derek – I think that will depend on the realtor. Some will be more flexible than others and that is something you’ll need to determine as part of the interview process.
Kendall Everett says
I would have never thought to consider all of the fees that the realtor has. Like you mentioned, the more you are aware of the fees they require, the easier it will be to stick to a budget when it comes to buying a home. I’m going to ask to read through a contract and make sure it includes all fees before I sign it.
Olivia Nelson says
I like your tip on asking a realtor how the market has changed in the last five years. I would imagine that someone who can knowledgeably discuss changes in the housing market would be someone you would want to hire. My husband and I are looking for someone to sell our home so when we find a real estate agent we’ll have to remember to test their knowledge of the housing market.
Ridley Fitzgerald says
It’s really important to find the right real estate agent. Like you mentioned, the market changes, so it’s necessary to work with an expert. I wouldn’t ever try and buy or sell a home without the help of a realtor.
Jen Pack says
My husband and I are planning on buying our first home next year, so I really appreciate this information on how to choose the right agent. I like the tip you give of looking for someone who understands the market and its trends. I imagine that it would be a good idea to look for someone who has good reviews online from their former clients.
Christina says
You’re right about the importance of having a professional real estate agent with the right knowledge at your disposal. The investment is a very important one, as you’ve shared.
Kristen says
It can help immensely!
Kristen says
Good reviews are a great place to start. Even better is if you can chat with someone who worked with them!
Olivia Nelson says
I agree that asking a realtor how the market has changed in the last five years can be informative. I would imagine that finding someone who is really well versed in how market trends operate could help you find the best deal on a home. I’m looking to buy a new home so when it comes to hiring a real estate agent I’ll have to ask them about how the market has changed in the last few years.
Olivia Nelson says
I agree that you would want to ask a realtor how the market has changed in the last five years before you hire them. I would imagine that knowing their experience in the market would be important. This would also give you an idea of their experience and how good they are at selling a home.
Kristen says
Exactly!
Olivia Nelson says
I agree that you would want to find out how much a realtor will charge and how that is determined. I would imagine that knowing how you will pay would be really important. This would also allow you to find someone who is just right for your home buying process.
Luke Smith says
Thanks for your advice to ask a real estate agent what they expect of you during the process. I can see how this would be really helpful for someone, especially if it was their first time buying or selling a home. I would imagine that good realtor would also have lots of contacts and would be able to help you locate homes for sale or potential buyers quickly.
Kristen says
You’re very welcome, Luke!
Brian says
This is a great list of thing to consider when looking for a real estate agent. It’s important to find someone who is willing to work for you and give you their full attention when searching for a home. Thanks for sharing!
Jay Jorgenson says
I really like what was said about real estate agents in this article. I had a friend who recently bought a house and the reason he hired a real estate agent was because they were experts in the market. Real estate agents have a great understanding of how to get the best value out of your home.
Kristen says
very true!
Troy Blackburn says
That’s a great tip you give about establishing up front what any realtor expenses could be and how much they could be. I’ve heard that there’s some real estate agents that won’t charge any fees if they don’t sell your home before a set time. Seems like that would give them lots of motivation to sell! I’ll have to keep this info in mind as I look for an agent to sell my home!
Jenna Hunter says
It was surprising to read that having a realtor with the VA Loan Appraisal process will be better able to hep to identify homes that may have issues. We are moving this February and we have never moved before so it is a new experience for us. As we track down an agent we will be sure to ask about the VA Loan to get the best house possible!
Burt Silver says
My wife and I are planning on buying our first home soon. We don’t know where to start, so we are trying to find a real estate agent, who can help us navigate through the process. I like the idea of asking the realtor what he needs from you in order to make the process go smoothly. I want to work together in order to get the house that is perfect for us. This is something I will definitely ask potential real estate agents.
James Bone says
“First-time home buyers in particular should take their time in selecting a real estate professional who they feel confident will guide them through the purchase process,”.
“In addition to keeping you informed all along the way, your agent or broker should be tech-savvy enough to help you do a complete search for all of the inventory currently on the market. That includes properties available online for sale at auction, not just those on the multiple listing service.”
Parveen says
I read your blog that is informative for me because I am planning to buy property but I don’t know where do I start. I know that I can’t buy perfect property at reasonable price without hire any perfect property agent. I have searched property agent on realestateindia.com. Can anybody tell me about best property agent in India
Ryan says
These are great advice for find the right real estate agent. Perfect for those who are new to the home buying process! Thanks for sharing!
Rachel Lannister says
You mentioned figuring out what kind of communication the real estate agent relies on, such as text, email, phone, or in person. I love to text people, so I would love to work with an agent who also uses that form. I’ll be sure to look around online for a few different real estate agents, and see which one is the best for me. Thanks for the great ideas.
Annika Larson says
My husband and I are looking into buying our first home and we want to make sure it is a good experience. I think finding the right real estate agent will really help with this. These questions will be super helpful! I thought of asking them how the market has changed in the last 5 years. Thanks for sharing!
Zequek Estrada says
Don’t forget to add any questions that you have of your own on top of these five questions. The second one is my favorite. To me, it shows that real estate agent is an expert in this field. That’s always comforting.
Danni Black says
I really like your tip about making sure that their process is a good match for your needs when it comes to hiring a real estate agent. My husband and I have been thinking about selling our home for a while now so having someone that is a great match for us would really help with the process. We will be sure to keep this information in mind while we are searching, thank you for sharing!
Tiffany Locke says
Making sure that your realtor’s process is a good match for your needs, schedule, and preference is a good idea. Being able to maintain a good relationship with your agent would probably help the process go smoothly and make sure you find the best home for yourself. Communicating with your realtor about what you want, and about any changes that may happen throughout the process, will probably help things go smoother as well.
Mike Dy says
Thanks for these information. I think it is hard for first time buyers to find the right realtor. I think this information will be really helpful.
Ryan says
These are great questions to ask to finding the right real estate agent! And I agree, its always important to figure out any or all realtor related expenses that would be due before using that that agent. Thanks for sharing!
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Olivia Nelson says
I like your tip on asking a realtor how much the market has changed in the last five years. It would seem that their answer would tell you a lot about how experienced and educated they are. I’m looking for someone to help me buy a home so I’ll have to find someone who knows a lot about the market.
Alex Dean says
My husband and I have come to the conclusion that it is time to buy a new home, and we would like to hire a real estate agent to help us do so. This being the first time we have ever bought a home, we need some advice on how to find the right one for us. I like how you suggested we ask them what they would need from us to make the process go smoothly, that way we know if their workflow will match well with us. Which will be really helpful in making this be a better experience for us. Thanks for all the different advice!
John Mahoney says
My brother will start looking for a house in a few months and wants to make sure he finds a great agent to help. Thank you for talking about how a good real estate agent should be able to understand market trends and come up wit the best plan to help you achieve your goals. It makes sense that understanding this can lead anyone to the house that offers the features they’re looking for and make sure they get the best deal for it.
Jade Brunet says
I like what was said about asking realtor candidates about whether they prefer to communicate digitally or in person. It would also be good to discover how often they plan to speak with you. My sister recently bought her house with the help of a realtor and she was happy to know that her agent was only a phone call away and would answer any and all questions she had.
Finley Moreira says
I’m looking at buying a new home, so I’m glad I came across this article. I really liked how you mention finding a real estate agent whose process is a good match for my specific needs. I’d imagine I’d be able to move into a house much sooner if I work with an agent like this.
Taylor Bishop says
I appreciate that you talked about how realtors should be able to knowledgeably discuss the changes that has occurred in the market and how they attend to tackle those changes. In an industry that is constantly changing, I feel like it’s important to always be aware and alert of what is happening and even what could happen. Having a willingness to constantly learn is vital to this industry, especially to be successful.
Harper Campbell says
My husband and I are in the process of getting ready to buy our first house. It’s good to know that when it comes to choosing a real estate agent, that we should see if there is anything we can do to help make the process go more smoothly. That way we can determine whether or not they are someone we can work with and who will be easy to communicate with.
Alexandria Martinez says
My mother needs to find a real estate agent to help her with her home buying and selling. She would really appreciate finding someone that will not surprise her with any fees. This way she knows she can trust her realtor.
Larry Weaver says
Thanks for the tip to determine up front what any realtor related expenses will be. I am looking to move into a new home, and I think now might be the time to start finding real estate agents. Learning how much the market has changed in the last 5 years by speaking with realtors is also something I’ll do.
Callum Palmer says
I do like that the article reminds readers to ask the real estate agent about what they’re expected to do. After all, you shouldn’t, and won’t, be leaving everything in the hands of your realtor. At the very least you should be expecting to do the cleaning and making your house look presentable for potential buyers.
Roslia Santamaria says
I liked the article. Found some great tips to find the right real estate agent by reading this.
Also gained some useful insight regarding the right real state agent.
So Thank you so much for posting this article.
Keep Blogging !!
Sam says
Great blog! Definitely something that we need to keep in mind when buying a house. I never really thought of a VA loan before. Something to keep in mind for the next time I buy. Asking what you can do is a great idea, I remember when I sold my first house at Camp Hill, my real estate agents at Smith Top Team Realtors, sat me down and explained everything that was going to happen and what they needed me to do. It was a big help and made the whole process smoother
Param Homes says
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We love the way you lay out your blog posts, Very easy to read.
Jacob Clark says
Awesome Blog! Thanks for sharing this post. It is an interesting post for everyone. When I read about this post then got more information. why finding the right agent is the first step to finding the right home. I will share this post with my clients.
Tom Wilson says
Thanks for sharing this post, it is very important to select the correct real estate agent who can help you in purchasing the correct property
Buyers Agent Sydney says
Great article indeed! This is such an amazing article.