Helena Talbot’s blog - Six Questions You Must Ask Your Real Estate Agent

Finding the right real estate agent can mean the difference between a quick sale or not making a sale at all.  Therefore, it's imperative that you ask your potential real estate agent some qualifying questions before you make any type of commitment.   Below are a few questions you must ask if you want to find a reputable, qualified realtor to sell your home quickly and effectively.

1.  Do you have any references?  Always check the references of the person you're thinking about hiring.  If they aren't good, find another realtor.  Don't just settle for the first realtor that comes along, unless your research proves they are in fact the most qualified.

2.  What issues do you see with my home?  A seasoned realtor will be able to quickly spot the potential drawbacks of your home.  And an honest realtor will be willing to be upfront with you and discuss the drawbacks and how they would overcome them.  If a realtor doesn't point out any flaws, it could be they're inexperienced or they 're just trying to get the contract to sell your home.  You need to find a realtor who will be upfront and honest with you and one who can communicate effectively with you at all times.  

3.  How many clients do you have currently?  If you find a realtor that currently has 50 listings, his time may be spread too thin and he may not have enough time to spend marketing your home.  Additionally, if you find a realtor that has too few clients, it could be that he doesn't have many referrals.  Or it could be that he is new and inexperienced.  In either case, you will have to weigh the facts in order to decide if that person is right for you.  

4.  Will you provide me with a CMA (comparative market analysis?)  An experienced realtor will come to your first appointment with a CMA already pre-prepared for you.

5.  Is the area growing or declining?   A good realtor should be familiar with the area and its current trends.  In addition, a seasoned realtor should be able to spot the signs of a neighborhood that is in decline and offer some recommendations to you.  

6.  How will you market my home?  Your realtor should perform all the marketing tasks that it takes to sell your home quickly.  That includes listing your home on MLS and as other many internet sites as possible.  They should also have quality pictures and virtual tours taken.  And have printed color flyers and brochures available.  Additionally, they should perform as many open houses as necessary.  If your realtor tells you they don't do open houses, consider finding another realtor.  

Finding the right realtor to sell your home is one of the most important decisions you will need to make.  Hiring the wrong realtor could cost you thousands of dollars and the loss of potential buyers.   Therefore, you should take all the time you need to make an educated decision about who you want representing you and your home.  

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker- Licensed in Virginia. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.