Vintage American Realty
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Lesson 5 Interviewing Real Estate Agents: Finding Your Advocate and Negotiator
Your real estate agent isn't just someone who opens doors - they're your strategist, negotiator, market analyst, and sometimes your therapist during one of life's most stressful experiences. Choose wisely.
Why Your Agent Choice Matters More Than You Think
In today's competitive market, your real estate agent is far more than someone who shows you houses. They're the difference between winning and losing your dream home, saving or wasting thousands of dollars, and experiencing a smooth process or months of frustration.
The right agent will guide you through complex negotiations, multiple offer situations, inspection issues, and the entire journey from contract to closing. The wrong one can cost you time, money, and opportunities.
Understanding Agent Compensation & Contracts
How Agents Get Paid
Agent compensation is now negotiated rather than standardized. While most sellers still offer commission to buyer's agents, this isn't guaranteed. You could be responsible for paying your agent's commission depending on your agreement.
Types of Contracts
Exclusive vs. Non-Exclusive: Most agents will push for exclusive contracts lasting 6-12 months. This locks you in even if they underperform. Instead, opt for non-exclusive agreements or exclusive contracts with very short durations (1-2 weeks).
Agency Relationships
Buyer's Agent: Represents you exclusively with fiduciary duty
Dual Agent: Represents both buyer and seller (conflict of interest)
Transaction Broker: Facilitates but doesn't represent either party
Always choose a buyer's agent with a non-exclusive or limited duration contract.
Local Knowledge vs. Regional Expertise
You'll often hear that you need a "hyper-local" agent who knows every street in your target town. While local knowledge is valuable, it's not the most critical factor.
Agents have areas of expertise that typically cover broader regions. An experienced agent with regional knowledge often has more market data, transaction experience, and professional relationships than someone limited to a single small town.
What matters more than hyper-local knowledge:
  • Deep understanding of the broader market area
  • Strong negotiation skills
  • Excellent communication
  • Proven track record
  • Compatibility with your needs and schedule
Essential Questions for Your Agent Interviews
1
Experience & Market Knowledge
  • How long have you been selling real estate full-time?
  • How many transactions did you close last year?
  • What areas do you specialize in, and why?
  • How do you stay current on market trends and pricing?
2
Availability & Communication
  • What's your typical response time to calls and texts?
  • Are you available for weekend showings?
  • How do you prefer to communicate?
  • Do you work with a team, and if so, who will I be dealing with day-to-day?
3
Strategy & Negotiation
  • How will you help my offer stand out in multiple-offer situations?
  • What's your strategy for negotiating repairs after inspections?
  • Can you give me an example of a difficult negotiation you handled?
  • What's your success rate in getting offers accepted?
Red Flags to Watch For
Poor Communication
If they take days to return your call during the interview process, imagine their responsiveness when you need to move quickly on a house.
Limited Availability
If they can't accommodate your schedule for showings or have limited weekend availability, find someone else. The market moves fast.
Pushiness
Be wary of agents who pressure you to sign agreements immediately or seem more focused on closing a deal than understanding your needs.
No Clear Strategy
You need an agent with specific strategies for winning in multiple offer situations, not just someone who will "submit your offer and see what happens."
Finding Your Communication Match
Communication is a two-way street, and finding an agent whose style matches yours is crucial for a successful partnership. Consider these factors when evaluating potential agents:
Frequency
Do you want daily updates or just when something important happens?
Method
Do you prefer phone calls, texts, emails, or a combination?
Style
Do you want detailed explanations or just the key points?
Be upfront about your preferences from the beginning, and make sure your agent can accommodate them. The right communication style will reduce stress and prevent misunderstandings throughout your home buying journey.
Schedule Alignment & Availability
Make sure the agent's schedule aligns with yours. This is especially important in fast-moving markets where:
Weekend Showings
Most showings happen on weekends. If you work typical business hours, you need an agent available Saturday and Sunday.
Quick Response
Hot properties might only be on the market for days. You might need to see a house and make an offer the same day.
Prompt Appointments
Inspections and other appointments need to happen quickly. Your agent must be able to coordinate with your schedule.
If you travel frequently for work or have unusual availability, make sure your agent can accommodate your specific scheduling needs. The best agent in the world can't help you if they're not available when you need them.
Team vs. Individual Agent: Understanding the Difference
Team Benefits
  • More availability and coverage
  • Specialized roles (showing specialist, negotiation specialist)
  • More resources and support
Individual Agent Benefits
  • Direct relationship with one person
  • Consistent communication and service
  • Personal attention to your transaction
Neither approach is inherently better – it depends on your preferences. With teams, you gain resources but might lose consistency. With individuals, you get a dedicated partner but potentially less backup support.
Making Your Final Decision
Don't rush this decision, but don't over-analyze it either. Interview at least 2-3 agents before making your choice. Remember, this person will be your advocate, advisor, and partner throughout one of the biggest financial transactions of your life.
After interviewing potential agents, ask yourself:
  • Did they listen to my needs and ask thoughtful questions?
  • Do I feel confident in their market knowledge and experience?
  • Are they available when I need them to be?
  • Do I trust them to negotiate on my behalf?
  • Do I feel comfortable communicating with them?
The perfect agent doesn't exist, but the right agent for you does. Choose someone who will fight for your interests, guide you through the process, and make your home buying experience as smooth as possible.
Thomas Brady SFR, e-PRO, SRES, BPOR,C_REPS
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker/ Director of Operations
Notary Public, Retired N.Y.P.D. Lt., U.S. Air Force Veteran
Vintage American Realty LLC.
1551 Montauk Hwy. Suite E
Oakdale, NY 11769
631-682-8660