15 Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You Hire

Why the interview matters

You are hiring someone to manage one of the biggest financial moves you will make. A 30 minute conversation, with the right questions, tells you how that person thinks and works.

Questions for any agent

1. How long have you worked in my area, and what have you sold or bought near here recently? Local proof matters in St. Louis, where two blocks can mean different prices.
2. What is your plan for me, in writing? Look for a timeline, steps and who does what.
3. How will you communicate, and how often? Ask for a specific schedule.
4. Who else will I work with? Some agents have teams, assistants or transaction coordinators.
5. What do you charge, and what is included? Commissions are negotiable and not set by law. Ask exactly what services the fee covers.
6. How long is the agreement, and how can I end it? Know your exit before you start.
7. Can I talk to recent clients or read reviews?

Questions for a listing agent (selling)

1. What price would you list at, and which sales support it? Ask to see the comparable sales.
2. What should I fix or update, and what will it cost? A good agent tells you what is worth doing and what is not.
3. How will you market my home? Photos, video, online listings, open houses, outreach to buyer agents.
4. What will I net? Ask for a seller net sheet with every cost listed. See the cost to sell in St. Louis.
5. What happens if it does not sell in the first few weeks? Listen for a plan, not a shrug.

Questions for a buyer's agent (buying)

1. What will our written buyer agreement say? Since 2024, agents working with buyers sign a written agreement before touring homes. Ask what it covers and how compensation works.
2. Which lenders do you work with, and how do you keep them updated? Clear lender communication protects your closing date.
3. How do you help me write a strong offer without overpaying? Ask about recent offers they have written in your target area.

How to compare answers

Put the answers in a simple table: plan, local proof, communication, fee and what is included, agreement terms. The best choice is usually obvious once you see it on paper.

My answers, in writing

I put my answers into a written plan before you decide anything. Get your Clear Path Plan or check your home value.

Listen for these answers

• Specific numbers, not "it depends" on everything
• Local examples from your neighborhood or a similar one
• A clear process with dates and responsibilities
• Honest trade-offs, such as "this update will not pay back, skip it"

Answers that should give you pause

• Promises of a price without comparable sales
• "Everyone charges the same," which is not true; fees are negotiable
• No plan for what happens if the home does not sell, or if your offer is not accepted
• Reluctance to put anything in writing

Bring this checklist to every interview

Print the 15 questions, write each agent's answers in the margin, and ask for their written plan afterward. Then compare the plans side by side. The choice usually becomes clear within a day. For more on the process, see how to choose a real estate agent in St. Louis.