10 Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You Hire One

A good agent welcomes every one of these. If someone dodges them, that tells you what you need to know. Use this list to interview with confidence — whether you're buying or selling.

1. Are you full-time or part-time? Full-time means reachable when offers and deadlines hit.
2. How many homes have you (and your team) sold in the last 24 months? Recent volume means current, real data.
3. What's your average days on market and list-to-sale price ratio? These reveal pricing and negotiation skill.
4. What recent awards or recognition have you earned? Vetted, recent performance — not a one-time mention.
5. What have you read or studied lately that shaped how you work? Growth-minded agents keep learning; it shows in their advice.
6. Can I talk to two or three recent clients? References from the last 90 days matter more than a wall of old testimonials.
7. Walk me through your exact plan for my situation. Sellers want a marketing plan; buyers want a search and negotiation plan.
8. How and how often will you communicate with me? Set the expectation up front.
9. How do you handle new-construction competition? In North Houston, builder incentives change the math — your agent must account for them.
10. How is your compensation structured, and what does it cover? Since 2024, commissions are negotiable and put in writing — you should understand it clearly.

Notice what these reward: experience, current activity, transparency, and a real plan. That's the bar to hold every agent to — including us.

Related: how to choose an agent (the full guide) and red flags to avoid.