Here are 10 Important Questions to Ask When Choosing a Real Estate Professional.

1. How Long Have You Worked in Residential Real Estate, and Is It Your Full-Time Profession?

Experience can be valuable, but years in the business alone do not guarantee quality service. A knowledgeable REALTOR® continually develops their skills, stays informed about market conditions, and adapts to changing industry practices.

Ask about their experience working with clients whose needs are similar to yours, whether you're purchasing your first home, selling a property, relocating, or exploring new construction.

Why it matters: You want a professional who understands your goals and can guide you through the complexities of your transaction.

2. How Many Homes Have You and Your Brokerage Sold in the Past Year?

Sales volume can provide insight into an agent's recent activity and experience in the marketplace. However, the number of transactions is only one measure of performance.

Ask about the types of properties they have represented, the communities they serve, and their familiarity with your specific real estate needs.

Why it matters: Local market knowledge and relevant transaction experience can help you make informed decisions.

3. What Professional Designations, Certifications, or Specialized Training Do You Hold?

Real estate professionals must meet applicable licensing requirements, and many pursue additional education to strengthen their expertise.

Professional designations and certifications can demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and specialized client service. Depending on your needs, you may want to work with a REALTOR® who has training in areas such as military relocation, buyer representation, negotiation, housing diversity, or working with older adults.

Ask how their education and credentials benefit clients in practical terms.

Why it matters: Specialized training can help your REALTOR® better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with your particular transaction.

4. How Long Do Your Listings Typically Take to Sell, and How Does That Compare With the Local Market?

If you're selling a home, ask about the average time properties represented by the agent spend on the market. Request comparisons with similar properties in your neighborhood or community.

Market conditions, property condition, pricing, location, and buyer demand can all affect how quickly a home sells.

Why it matters: Comparing an agent's results with relevant local market statistics can help you establish realistic expectations and develop an effective selling strategy.

5. What Is the Typical Difference Between Your Initial Listing Price and Final Sales Price?

Pricing strategy and negotiation skills can significantly influence the outcome of a real estate transaction.

Ask how the REALTOR® determines an appropriate listing price, evaluates comparable properties, responds to market feedback, and negotiates offers.

For buyers, ask how the agent evaluates asking prices and develops competitive offers based on market conditions and your financial objectives.

Why it matters: A well-supported pricing strategy and thoughtful negotiation can help protect your interests and support your financial goals.

6. What Marketing Strategies Will You Use to Sell My Home?

Effective real estate marketing involves more than placing a property in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

Ask your prospective REALTOR® about their marketing plan, which may include professional photography, online property exposure, social media promotion, targeted digital marketing, open houses, property descriptions, and outreach to prospective buyers and other real estate professionals.

You should also understand how the agent will evaluate marketing performance and adjust the strategy when necessary.

Why it matters: A comprehensive marketing plan can increase a property's visibility, attract qualified buyers, and help position your home competitively in the market.

7. Will You Represent My Interests Exclusively, or Could You Also Represent the Other Party?

Understanding the agency relationship is essential when buying or selling real estate.

Ask whether your REALTOR® will represent you exclusively or whether circumstances could arise in which the agent or brokerage represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction.

Real estate agency laws and disclosure requirements vary by state. In Arizona, your agent should explain the applicable agency relationships, disclose potential conflicts of interest, and clarify how your interests will be represented.

Why it matters: You deserve a clear understanding of your agent's responsibilities, the scope of representation, and any potential conflicts before entering into an agreement.

8. Can You Recommend Other Professionals Who May Be Needed During the Transaction?

A real estate transaction often involves other professionals, including mortgage lenders, home inspectors, insurance providers, appraisers, contractors, title and escrow companies, and other service providers.

Ask whether your REALTOR® can offer referrals to qualified professionals who may assist with your transaction.

You should also ask whether the agent or brokerage has any financial interest, referral arrangement, or other relationship with the providers recommended.

Remember that you generally have the right to evaluate your options and select the providers who best meet your needs.

Why it matters: Access to reliable professional resources can help you navigate the process more efficiently while making informed decisions.

9. How Will You Keep Me Informed Throughout the Transaction?

Clear, consistent communication can make a significant difference in your real estate experience.

Ask how your REALTOR® provides updates, responds to questions, communicates important deadlines, and explains developments that may affect your transaction.

Discuss your preferred communication method, whether that's phone calls, text messages, email, or scheduled conversations. Establish expectations for response times and regular updates.

Why it matters: Effective communication helps you stay informed, understand your options, and address important decisions or deadlines promptly.

10. Can You Provide References From Recent Clients?

Past client experiences can offer valuable insight into a REALTOR®'s professionalism, communication, reliability, and ability to manage a transaction.

Ask whether the agent can provide references from recent clients, subject to those clients' permission. You can also review publicly available testimonials and online reviews.

If you speak with former clients, consider asking:

• Did the REALTOR® communicate clearly and consistently?
• Did they understand and prioritize your goals?
• How effectively did they handle challenges or negotiations?
• Did they explain the process and keep you informed?
• Would you work with this REALTOR® again?

Why it matters: Client feedback can help you evaluate whether the agent's approach aligns with your expectations.

Choosing a REALTOR® Who Puts Your Goals First

The right real estate professional should offer more than transaction management. You deserve someone who listens to your needs, understands your priorities, communicates clearly, and provides the information you need to make confident decisions.

Whether you're buying your first home, selling your current property, relocating to Southern Arizona, exploring new construction, or planning your next move, choosing the right REALTOR® is an important first step.

Let's Discuss Your Real Estate Goals

I'm Derrick P. Walton, MBA, REALTOR®, with Thompson Shepherd Group, brokered by Bliss Realty & Investments.

As a retired U.S. Army leader with more than 20 years of military service, I bring a commitment to integrity, accountability, strategic planning, and client-focused service to my real estate practice.

I proudly assist first-time homebuyers, military service members, veterans, relocating families, sellers, and investors throughout Southern Arizona. My goal is to help you understand your options, navigate the process, and make informed real estate decisions that align with your needs.

Honor. Trust. Accountability. — Your Mission, My Commitment.

Whether you're ready to make a move or simply exploring your options, I'm here to help you take the next step with confidence.

Contact me today to discuss your real estate goals.

Derrick P. Walton, MBA, REALTOR® Thompson Shepherd Group, brokered by Bliss Realty & Investments Helping You Find a Home, From the First Hello.