5 Essential Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Broker Before Signing a Contract

23 March 2025

Buying or selling a home is a huge milestone, isn't it? Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process. And let’s be honest, real estate transactions involve a ton of money—probably one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. That’s why finding the right real estate broker is as important as finding the perfect home.

You wouldn’t hire a contractor for a remodel without asking them a few critical questions, would you? The same logic applies here. Before you sign anything binding, it’s essential to have a candid conversation with your broker. Asking the right questions can make all the difference between a smooth transaction and one that feels like pulling teeth.

So, what are these must-ask questions? Let’s dive into the top five you shouldn’t skip.

1. How Much Experience Do You Have in the Real Estate Market?

Let’s face it: real estate isn’t something you learn overnight. Experience matters, big time. Sure, everyone needs to start somewhere, but when you're making a financial commitment of this magnitude, you'd want someone who knows the ins and outs of the market.

It’s not just about how many years they’ve been in the game. Be sure to ask about their specific experience in your area or with the kind of property you’re buying or selling. Are they familiar with your neighborhood? Have they handled transactions similar to yours? Each market has its own quirks, and you want someone who can help you navigate them.

Picture this: you wouldn’t hire a chef to cook a gourmet meal if they’ve only ever made instant noodles, right? The same principle applies here.

Pro Tip: Don’t just take their word for it. Ask for examples of past deals or client testimonials, if possible. This will give you a clearer picture of their credibility.

2. What Is Your Marketing Strategy?

If you’re selling a property, this question is non-negotiable. A good broker isn’t just a middleman who waits around for buyers to come knocking. They should have a well-thought-out marketing plan to showcase your property and attract offers.

Ask about the tools and platforms they use. Do they rely on online listings, professional photography, social media advertising, or open houses? The more creative and aggressive their strategy, the better your chances of selling your property quickly and at the right price.

For buyers, this question is still relevant. A broker with a solid local network might hear about properties that haven’t even hit the market yet (insider knowledge for the win!). Knowing how they’ll help you find your dream home—or sell your current one—can give you peace of mind.

Pro Tip: Be wary of brokers who only rely on traditional methods. The real estate game has shifted to digital platforms, and you’ll want someone who keeps up with the times.

3. What Are Your Fees and How Do You Get Paid?

Money talk isn’t the most glamorous part of the process, but it’s essential. Before you sign anything, make sure you have a crystal-clear understanding of your broker’s fees and how they get paid.

Most brokers work on commission, which is typically a percentage of the sale price. But here’s the kicker: the percentage can vary. Some brokers might charge 5%, while others go for 6% (or even more in some cases). If you’re selling, you’ll want to know how this will impact your bottom line.

And don’t forget to clarify whether any additional fees might crop up. Do they charge for marketing expenses or staging consultations? Hidden fees can be like potholes on a smooth road—they’ll jolt you when you least expect it!

For buyers, this might not seem as relevant since sellers often cover the commission. But you still want to ensure there are no surprises, especially if the broker represents both you and the seller.

Pro Tip: Don’t shy away from negotiating. Fees aren’t always set in stone, and a good broker will value your business enough to work with you.

4. How Do You Communicate During the Process?

Here’s the thing: real estate transactions can take weeks or even months. During that time, you’ll need someone who communicates clearly, consistently, and effectively.

Ask your broker how they intend to keep you in the loop. Will they provide regular updates via email, phone calls, or text messages? Are they okay with you reaching out after hours if something urgent comes up?

Think of it this way: working with a broker who’s bad at communication is like trying to text someone who never replies—it’s frustrating and leaves you feeling in the dark.

You’ll also want to gauge their availability. Do they have a packed client roster that might make it hard to dedicate time to your needs? Or are they part of a team that can step in if they’re unavailable?

Pro Tip: Trust your gut during initial interactions. If they’re slow to respond or vague in their answers, that’s a red flag.

5. Do You Have a List of Trusted Vendors You Work With?

This one might not be on the top of your mind, but it’s gold. A seasoned broker usually has a go-to list of reliable vendors—think home inspectors, contractors, mortgage brokers, and attorneys.

Why does this matter? Because buying or selling a home involves more moving parts than you might realize. Having access to trustworthy professionals who’ve already been vetted can save you a lot of time and stress.

Let’s say you’re selling your house and need a quick repair. Wouldn’t it be nice to work with a contractor your broker has already worked with, rather than scrambling for Yelp reviews?

This question also gives you insight into how resourceful your broker is. Someone with a strong professional network shows they’re experienced, connected, and committed to helping you beyond just signing contracts.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right real estate broker isn’t just about finding someone who’s licensed. It’s about partnering with someone who understands your needs, communicates effectively, and has the skills to guide you through one of life’s biggest transactions.

The five questions we’ve outlined above are designed to peel back the layers and give you real insight into how your broker operates. Think of it as a job interview—after all, they’ll be working for you.

Remember, there’s no such thing as a “dumb” question when it comes to protecting your investment. So, ask away, take notes, and don’t settle until you feel 100% confident in your choice.