Hiring a real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you will make during your property buying or selling journey. A great agent can help you secure the best price and guide you smoothly through a complex process. However, signing an agreement without asking the right questions can lock you into long contracts, hidden fees, and inadequate representation.
Before you put pen to paper, make sure you sit down with your prospective agent and ask these 7 crucial questions.
Asking key questions helps protect your financial interests before signing. Source: Vecteezy
1. What Are Your Exact Fees and Commission Structure?
Commission rates vary across agents and locations. Most real estate agencies charge either a percentage of the final sale price or a fixed flat fee.
What to clarify:
- Is VAT (Value Added Tax) included in the quoted commission rate?
- Are advertising and marketing costs bundled in, or will you pay extra for listings on premium platforms?
- What happens if the property doesn’t sell within the agreed period?
Getting a clear breakdown upfront prevents unexpected charges when the transaction closes.
2. What Type of Contract Are You Offering?
Estate agents typically use different contract structures. Knowing the difference protects your freedom to change strategies if performance lags.
- Sole Agency: Only this agent has the right to sell your property. If another agent sells it during the term, you may still owe the original agent a commission.
- Multi-Agency: Multiple agents market your property, and only the one who secures the buyer gets paid. Commission rates are usually higher.
- Sole Selling Rights: The agent receives a commission regardless of who finds the buyer—even if you find the buyer yourself.
Make sure you understand which type of agreement you are committing to.
3. How Long Is the Tie-In Period and Notice Period?
A tie-in period is the duration you are contractually required to stay with the agent. While standard periods range from 6 to 12 weeks, some agents try to lock clients into 26-week contracts.
Always ask:
- How long is the initial tie-in period?
- What is the notice period required to terminate the agreement (e.g., 2 weeks)?
- Are there withdrawal fees if you decide to take your home off the market?
Pro Tip: Negotiate for a shorter tie-in period (e.g., 6 weeks). If the agent performs well, you won’t need to leave anyway; if they don’t, you won’t be trapped.
4. How Will You Value and Market My Property?
Asking an agent to justify their valuation reveals whether they have deep local market knowledge or are simply giving an inflated number to secure your business.
Key questions to gauge their strategy:
- What recent comparable sales in the neighborhood justify this listing price?
- Will you provide professional photography, virtual tours, and floor plans?
- Which online portals (e.g., Zillow, Rightmove, Realtor.com) and social media channels will you use to advertise?
5. Who Will Be Handling the Viewings and Client Communication?
The senior agent who pitches to you isn’t always the person who conducts home viewings or manages day-to-day client updates.
Clear communication sets expectations for a successful partnership. Source: UKposters
Clear up these operational details:
- Will you personally accompany potential buyers, or will junior staff handle viewings?
- How often will I receive progress updates and viewing feedback?
- Will updates be delivered via phone, email, or a client portal?
6. What Is Your Track Record in This Specific Area?
Experience matters, but hyper-local experience matters most. An agent with 20 years of experience outside your neighborhood might struggle compared to a local specialist.
Request specific metrics:
- How many homes have you sold in this neighborhood over the past 6 to 12 months?
- What is your average ratio between asking price and final sale price?
- What is the average time your listings spend on the market before selling?
7. Are There Any Dual Agency Conflicts?
Dual agency occurs when the same estate agent (or agency) represents both the seller and the buyer in the same transaction.
While legal in some regions under strict disclosure rules, it can create a conflict of interest because the agent is trying to get the highest price for the seller while also getting the lowest price for the buyer. Ask if the agency allows dual representation and how they protect your best interests if that scenario arises.
Final Thoughts
Signing an agreement with an estate agent is a binding legal commitment. Taking the time to ask these 7 questions ensures you choose a qualified, transparent professional who aligns with your financial goals. Never hesitate to negotiate contract terms or request changes in writing before adding your signature.