Posted by: Karim Ali
Coffee with Karim
Why Your Realtor Choice Matters
5-6 min read
Choosing the right Realtor is one of the most important steps in the listing process. The person you hire isn’t just putting your home on MLS – they’re guiding you through pricing, marketing, negotiations, and every step until the deal closes. A great Realtor can save you stress, protect your bottom line, and help you make the right decisions under pressure.
But with so many agents out there, how do you know who’s the best fit? The answer: Ask the right questions. Here are seven that every homeowner should ask before signing a listing agreement.
Why the Right Realtor Matters
The wrong choice can cost you thousands. Overpricing, poor marketing, or a weak negotiator can leave your home sitting on the market or selling for less than it should.
The right choice, on the other hand, gives you confidence. They’ll act as your partner, providing advice, advocacy, and solutions. Look for someone who puts people first, communicates clearly, and has proven expertise.
The 7 Essential Questions to Ask
1. How will you market my home?
Your Realtor should have a detailed marketing plan. Professional photos, staging consultations, online advertising, social media campaigns, 3D tours, and open houses all play a role. If the answer is only “MLS and a sign,” that’s a red flag.
2. What’s your experience in my neighbourhood?
Local knowledge matters. A Realtor who has sold homes in your area understands buyer demand, pricing nuances, and what makes your neighbourhood stand out. Ask for examples of homes they’ve successfully sold (or even helped buy) nearby.
3. How do you handle pricing strategy?
The best agents use data-driven strategies: comparable sales, market trends, and timing. Be cautious of anyone who just agrees to list at the highest price you suggest. Overpricing often leads to longer days on market and lower eventual sale prices.
4. How do you communicate with clients?
Consistent communication is key. Ask how often they provide updates, whether they share showing feedback, and how accessible they are by phone, text, or email. You should feel informed, not left in the dark.
5. What happens if we get multiple offers?
A strong negotiator can make all the difference. Ask your Realtor how they create competition among buyers and what strategies they’ve used in real-life multiple-offer situations. Their answer should give you confidence in their ability to maximize your sale price.
6. What services do you include to prepare my home for sale?
Top Realtors offer more than paperwork. Look for value-added services such as staging consultations, pre-list inspections, handyman support, or decluttering help. These can set your home apart and reduce stress during the process.
7. What makes you different from other Realtors?
This is your chance to gauge personality fit and unique value. Maybe they specialize in certain types of homes, have a proven negotiation track record, or, like me, focus on a people-first approach that prioritizes your goals and peace of mind.
Red Flags to Watch For
Not every Realtor will be the right fit. Be cautious of:
- Agents who promise the highest price without data to back it up
- Lack of clarity on services included
- Poor communication or a dismissive attitude
If your gut says something’s off, keep looking.
That's All!
Selling your home is a big step, and your Realtor will play a huge role in the outcome. Ask these seven questions, listen carefully to the answers, and trust your instincts. The right fit should leave you feeling confident, supported, and ready to move forward.
Thinking about listing your Ottawa home? Let’s have a conversation about how I can make the process smooth, stress-free, and profitable for you.
2 More Things
1
Ask for References or Reviews. A confident Realtor should be happy to connect you with past clients or share reviews. This gives you a real sense of what it’s like to work with them day-to-day, not just the highlight reel.
2
Find Out How They Handle Challenges. No sale goes perfectly. Ask about a difficult situation they’ve faced and how they solved it. Their response will give you insight into their problem-solving, negotiation style, and calmness under pressure.
609
120