Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent Before Listing

Get Ahead of the Market with These Pro Tips

If you’re thinking about selling your home, your real estate agent will be your best resource. But not all agents are the same, and with today’s shifting market trends—like high interest rates, low inventory, and increasing demand for move-in-ready homes—it’s crucial to know the right questions to ask before you list.

Here are the Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent Before Listing your property:

1. What’s My Home Worth in Today’s Market?

The Zestimate on Zillow is nice, but it’s not gospel. A seasoned agent will provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) using recent sales data, current listings, and local market trends. In 2025, with price stabilization in many regions, an accurate valuation can be the difference between sitting on the market and selling fast.

Expert Tip:
Ask how factors like rising interest rates or new developments in your area could impact your home’s value and buyer demand.

2. What’s Your Marketing Strategy for My Home?

Listing your home on MLS isn’t enough. Buyers are scrolling through Instagram, YouTube, and even TikTok for their next dream home. A strong digital marketing plan—professional photos, video walkthroughs, and social media ads—is essential.

Expert Tip:
Request examples of past listings the agent has marketed. Look for agents who use targeted social media campaigns and have a solid online presence.

3. What Should I Do to Prepare My Home for Sale?

Every house can benefit from some level of staging or prep. Whether it’s decluttering, repainting, or minor repairs, a good agent will guide you on what improvements will give you the best return on investment.

Expert Tip:
With buyers prioritizing move-in-ready homes, small upgrades like modern fixtures, neutral paint colors, and improved curb appeal can make a huge impact.

4. How Will You Handle Showings and Open Houses?

Flexibility and strategy matter. Will your agent host traditional open houses, or are virtual tours and private showings more effective in your market? In 2025, many busy buyers prefer private appointments or digital tours.

Expert Tip:
Ask about the agent’s process for vetting potential buyers and managing showing schedules to minimize disruption to your daily life.

5. What Are Your Fees, and Are There Any Hidden Costs?

Understanding the commission structure upfront is important, but also ask about any additional fees for photography, staging, or marketing. Transparency builds trust.

Expert Tip:
Some agents offer tiered service packages, so you can choose the level of marketing and support that fits your needs and budget.

Final Thoughts:

Selling your home is a major decision, and the right real estate agent will be your biggest asset. By asking these five essential questions, you’ll be better prepared, informed, and positioned for a successful sale.

Pro Move:
Interview multiple agents before deciding. Look for someone who not only knows the numbers but also understands how to tell your home’s story.