Any idea why homebuyers take their time picking a Realtor? It’s because buying a home is one of the biggest decisions they’ll ever make. They want to feel confident that the Realtor or the real estate brokerage team they’re choosing to work with is someone who understands their needs, can guide them through the process, and will help them make the best choices. To ensure that they’re picking the best fit (expert) for their big journey, homebuyers often ask the Realtors a host of questions.
So, if you’re a Realtor, it’s important to know what these common questions are. This way, you can be best prepared and increase your chances of securing a solid business relationship. So, let’s dive into what questions you should be ready for!
Questions Homebuyers Usually Ask Realtors Before Hiring Them, and How Realtors Can Answer
How Long Have You Been Working as a Real Estate Agent?
This question will be pretty easy for you to answer if have been working as a Realtor in a top real estate brokerage in Mississauga for several years. You can highlight your extensive experience working as a real estate professional in the local housing market. But if you’re newer to this profession, don’t worry - you can still present yourself to your would-be home-buying client confidently.
Here’s how to handle this question if you are a new real estate agent. First off, highlight any relevant real estate training and certifications you have completed recently. For instance, if you have earned a special designation or participated in advanced real estate courses, make sure to mention these.
Also, if you work for a reputed real estate brokerage, mention that. The reputation of your brokerage can work in your favour, showcasing that you’re backed by a well-established and respected name in the industry. The clients will know that you have access to valuable resources, support, and a network that enhances your ability to serve them effectively.
How well do you know the neighbourhoods I'm interested in?
A homebuyer asks this question because they want to ensure that their Realtor can provide them with insightful and accurate information about their potential neighbourhood. So, as a Realtor, how should you answer this question?
You must do this by highlighting your deep knowledge about the top neighbourhoods in Mississauga including the areas the client is interested in. Share your experiences such as how long you have been working in the area and mention any specific insights you have. For example, you could talk about local hotspots, recent housing market trends, or even upcoming projects in the area.
What is your strategy for finding the right home for me?
For this question, you must share your strategy on how you plan to help your client find their dream home. Here is how usually the top professionals of a real estate brokerage in Mississauga answer this question -
First off, the Realtor starts by having a chat with the client to understand their home-buying needs and preferences. During this initial conversation, the Realtor will try to know about the budget, preferred location, and the features the client wants in their dream home. Through this, the real estate professional will gain a clear idea of what the client is looking for in their new home sweet home.
Next up, the Realtor will look through MLS listings and also tap into their professional network to find the best properties that match the client’s wish list. In case your real estate brokerage gives its team of Realtors exclusive access to off-market listings, now is a good time to mention that.
Once the Realtor along with the client shortlists a few potential homes, the real estate professionals will arrange viewings. The Realtor would accompany the client in each property viewing, pointing out the key features and any potential issues. This helps the client to make an informed decision and ensure that the home they’re buying is their perfect fit.
What is your communication style, and how often can I expect updates?
Home-buying is not a casual process - it’s one of the most significant journeys an individual usually undertakes. So, given the importance and complexity of this home-buying journey, clients look for constant updates and want to be able to reach their Realtor at all times.
Hence, as a Realtor, you need to reassure your clients that on-time and effective communication is something they can always expect from you. You must let the would-be client know from the start how and when they can expect updates. For example, you could promise to send weekly updates on housing market conditions and new property listings.
In addition, you must also assure the real estate client that you’ll be available for immediate responses. In case a client ever fails to reach you, you must provide them with a contact number from your real estate brokerage team.
How can you help me secure my dream home at the right price?
The way you answer this question can help the client decide if you’re an expert Realtor or not. Usually, top Realtors conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine the fair market value of a property. Armed with the data gathered from the CMA, the real estate professional helps a home-buying client draft a compelling offer to present to the home seller.
Next, in case the seller gives a counteroffer or rejects the offer entirely, the Realtor uses their strong negotiation skills to advocate for their client’s best interests and secure the home. Whether through negotiating the purchase price or securing favourable terms, the professionals of a real estate brokerage do their best to help the client get a great deal. So, if this sounds like something you would do for your client, answer the question accordingly.
What fees and commissions do you charge as a Realtor?
Realtors must always let clients know their commission rate up front - this is usually agreed upon before signing any agreement. In case the client needs to pay any extra charges to you or your brokerage, make sure to outline these too clearly. Basically, when discussing your fees and commissions, try to stay as transparent and clear as possible.
You Might Get More Questions from Your Potential Home-Buying Client
When choosing a Realtor or a real estate brokerage in Mississauga, each home-buying client brings their own set of needs, preferences, and concerns to the table. Because of this, they might have a lot more questions to ask you beyond the basics we’ve covered above.
So, no matter how many or what type of questions come your way, as a Realtor, you just need to ensure your answers are clear, honest, and engaging. Through every answer, you must try to build trust with the would-be client and show that you’re the right expert who can guide them towards their dream home.