Thinking About Switching Realtors? Questions to Ask Before Hiring a New Listing Agent
Seven important questions to ask before choosing a new listing agent and a stronger selling strategy.
Is your home still not selling? Are you thinking about working with a different Realtor? Choosing a new listing agent may be an important step toward improving your home-selling experience.
Selling a home can be stressful, especially when your property has been on the market for a long time without an offer. If communication is limited, marketing is not producing results, or you are unsure about your current selling strategy, it may be time to explore other options.
However, before hiring a new listing agent, take time to ask the right questions. The goal is to find someone who understands your property, knows the local market, and has a clear plan to help you sell.
Here are seven important questions to ask.
01 How Will You Determine the Right Asking Price?
Pricing is one of the most important parts of selling a home.
Ask the agent how they will determine your home's market value. A good pricing discussion should include:
- Recently sold homes in your neighborhood.
- Similar properties currently for sale.
- Local buyer demand.
- Your home's condition and features.
- Current market competition.
Ask whether the agent can provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This can help you understand how your asking price compares with similar homes.
02 What Will You Do Differently to Market My Home?
If your home has already been listed without success, repeating the same marketing strategy may not be enough.
Ask the new agent what they plan to change.
For example:
- Will they update your listing photos?
- Will they improve the property description?
- Will they use social media marketing?
- Will they create property videos?
- How will they reach potential buyers?
Look for an agent who can explain a clear marketing plan rather than simply promising more exposure.
03 How Well Do You Know My Neighborhood?
Local market knowledge matters when selling a home.
An agent familiar with your neighborhood may better understand what buyers are looking for and how your property compares with nearby homes.
For Metro Atlanta homeowners, ask whether the agent has experience in areas such as Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Suwanee, Duluth, Buford, or surrounding communities.
You can also ask about recent sales and buyer activity in your area.
04 How Will You Communicate With Me?
Good communication can make the selling process easier.
Before hiring a new listing agent, ask:
- How often will you provide updates?
- Will you contact me after showings?
- How quickly do you respond to questions?
- Who should I contact if you are unavailable?
- How will you explain changes in the market?
Choose an agent whose communication style matches your expectations.
05 What Is Your Plan for Getting More Buyer Interest?
A new listing agent should be able to explain how they plan to attract potential buyers.
Ask how they will handle:
- Online listing exposure.
- Property showings.
- Open houses, when appropriate.
- Buyer and agent feedback.
- Follow-up with interested buyers.
It is also important to understand how the agent will adjust the strategy if buyer interest remains low.
06 What Are Your Fees and Listing Agreement Terms?
Before signing a new agreement, make sure you understand the costs and responsibilities involved.
Ask about:
- Listing commission and whether it is negotiable.
- Marketing or other potential expenses.
- Length of the listing agreement.
- Cancellation terms.
- Services included in the agreement.
Real estate compensation is negotiable and should be clearly discussed before you sign.
If you are currently working with another agent, review your existing listing agreement first. Understand its expiration date, cancellation requirements, and any other obligations before making a change.
07 What Makes You the Right Agent for My Home?
This is an important question because every property and seller has different needs.
Ask the agent about their experience, recent sales, marketing approach, and how they handle challenges.
You can also review their online presence, client testimonials, and communication style.
Instead of choosing an agent based only on promises or the highest suggested asking price, look for someone who provides realistic advice and a clear plan.
Conclusion: Choose a Listing Agent With a Clear Strategy
Switching Realtors may be worth considering if your current selling experience is not meeting your expectations. However, hiring a new agent should involve more than simply changing the name on your listing.
Take time to compare experience, local market knowledge, pricing recommendations, marketing plans, communication, and agreement terms.
For homeowners in Metro Atlanta, the right listing agent can help you understand your property's position in the market and develop a selling strategy based on your goals.
Tina Jingru Sui, Associate Broker and Team Leader of the TJS Team at Keller Williams Atlanta Partners, works with buyers and sellers throughout Metro Atlanta.
If you are considering a new approach to selling your home, visit TinaSui.com to learn more about your real estate options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I consider switching Realtors?
You may want to explore other agents if communication is poor, marketing is ineffective, pricing guidance is unclear, or your selling goals are not being addressed.
Can I change listing agents if my home has not sold?
It may be possible, but you should first review your current listing agreement. Check its expiration date and cancellation terms before signing with another agent.
Should I choose a new agent who promises a higher selling price?
Not necessarily. Ask for supporting market data and a realistic pricing strategy. An unusually high suggested price does not guarantee a higher sale price.
What should I look for in a new listing agent?
Look for local market knowledge, communication skills, relevant experience, a clear marketing plan, and realistic pricing recommendations.
Will hiring a new Realtor guarantee that my home will sell?
No agent can guarantee a sale. However, a fresh strategy, competitive pricing, and effective marketing may improve your home's chances of attracting buyers.