June 13th, 2025 3:00 PM by Linda Holley
Using these questions (and correct answers) will help you select the best real estate agent.
Q: Do I need an appraisal and home inspection?
A: Yes. It helps during negotiations and can assist in a smoother transaction all the way to the closing table.
Q: There's talk about a special assessment in my community. Do I have to disclose?
A. If there is something approved by the Board and it is in the meeting minutes, yes.
Q: What type of market are we in?
A: It's a Buyer's Market in Central Florida.
Q: How will you market my property?
A: Company website, social media, print (brochures, Just Listed post cards, email blasts to Board of Realtors, realtor tours.
Q: Let's try listing the home higher than the comps so we can negotiate?
A: Do you want to sell your home or just list it? Don't price yourself out of the market because you'll get fewer showings if the home is overpriced. Homes that are priced correctly from the beginning sell faster.
Q: Will you hold open houses?
A. I will but understand that statistically, homes are sold only 11% of the time through open houses. They just help agents to meet new buyers, not necessarily for your home!
Q: My condo community allows weekly rentals. How do we find investors?
A: Your home does not qualify for conventional financing so you need a cash buyer or one willing to pay a higher interest rate from a lender offering a "portfolio loan."
Q: Will you be present for showings?
A: Yes only if you want me to be. Sometimes this isn't a good idea because if a Buyers Agent sees that it is a "Listing Agent Must Accompany" showing, they may not show your home. They don't want to be locked into a specific showing time if they are running behind schedule. I will offer to be there if the Buyers agent and you think it will be helpful.
Q: Do I need a 4-point inspection?
A: Yes, your buyer will need a clear 4-point report for insurance. It covers the air conditioning system, plumbing, electrical, and roof.
Q: Am I required to complete a Seller's Disclosure?
A: No but it's a good idea to be transparent about anything you know about the property unless you want to risk being sued by the buyer who discovers problems after they took possession.
Q: When's the last time you went out of your way to help a buyer or seller?
A: (Hopefully you will hear an interesting story...if not, go to the next agent.)
Q: What is CIPS, SRES, and GRI?
A: These are professional designations: Certified International Property Specialist, Senior Real Estate Specialist, and Graduate of the Real Estate Institute.
Q: What is the highest designation of the 3 above designations?
A: GRI because there are several different classes, and agents are tested along the way.
Q: Why do I have to pay a buyer's brokerage?
A: You don't have to but if you don't you may get fewer showings.
Q: I must sell this home in 60 days. What do you recommend?
A: Price it below the comparative sales.
Q: Do I need a pool inspection?
A: Yes.
Q: What are the benefits of an As-Is Contract?
A: Sellers are not required to use a licensed contractors for repairs; buyers can walk away during the inspection period for any or no reason.
Q: What is a buyers brokerage agreement?
A: This is an agreement between a buyer and a brokerage about the amount of compensation the buyer's agent is to receive at closing. In the event the seller offers less compensation than specified in the agreement, the buyer is responsible for the difference.
This information may be helpful when consumers are shopping around for an agent to help sell or buy a home.
Call Linda Holley, Realtor, GRI, SRES, CIPS, William Raveis Real Estate, Sarasota and Siesta Key, 941-914-4914
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