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10 questions to ask a real estate agent 1. How did you arrive at this appraisal?
2. Will you be working on the property?
3. How many other properties are you currently handling?
4. What price will you be quoting to prospective buyers?
5. May I see references from past clients?
6. Do you have people in your database looking for a property like this?

7. How long does it normally take you to sell a home similar to mine?
8. How long have you worked as an agent? How long in this area?
9. I don’t want to go to auction and/or hold open inspections. Is sale by private treaty/inspections by appointment possible?
10. How often will I get progress reports?

Things an agent should do
• Record in writing all payable fees, commissions and marketing costs
• Record in writing your length of contract and the expected sale price range (which should match the price quoted to interested buyers)
• Offer feedback on inspection numbers, contracts issued and buyer feedback
• Tell you of all offers received
• Act in your best interest at all times
• Be aware of the sensitive nature of your confidential information
• Be a member of a professional body, such as the Real Estate Institute

The full version of this story is in Inside Out.