Ask each agent you interview how many properties similar to yours they have sold recently in your specific area, and request actual addresses and results rather than general claims of experience. This lets you verify their track record independently rather than relying purely on their own summary.
Ask how they arrived at their suggested price range and request the comparable sales evidence behind it, rather than accepting a figure at face value. An agent who can clearly explain their reasoning with recent, relevant sales data is generally more trustworthy than one who simply quotes an appealing number.
Find out exactly what is included in their marketing proposal, including photography, online advertising, signboards and any print or social media promotion, and clarify which costs are covered by their commission versus charged separately. A detailed, itemised proposal avoids confusion and unexpected invoices later in the campaign.
Ask about their communication style and how often you can expect updates during the campaign, including after each open home or private inspection. Clear expectations about communication frequency from the outset prevent frustration if updates feel sparse once the campaign is underway.
Finally, ask what happens if the property does not sell within the expected timeframe, including how they would recommend adjusting strategy and whether there are any costs or conditions tied to extending or ending the agency agreement. Understanding this upfront protects you if the campaign takes longer than anticipated.
Happy to talk it through — no pressure, no sales pitch.