1. Why did they choose Real Estate as a career? It is only a hobby? Make sure that your agent is full-time and serious about their career. Ask them about their compensation. Does their broker provide for all of their overhead expenses so that there is no investment by the Agent or do they share in the expenses, thus creating creating a need for them to provide good service? Many agents are the second income earners for their family, or they "just like people". These are not motivated agents. Find an Agent that makes Real Estate a career and depends on it for a living.  Be wary of any Agent that has a vague answer to this questiion or is in Real estate because their other careers didn't work out or they are semi-retired.

2. Are they computerized? This goes beyond the obvious computerized multiple listing service. If they are not at least in the multiple list system start walking away! Today's Agent should have as a minimum their own desktop or laptop PC and use it to store client data, record conversation notes and publish flyers. The Agents on the cutting edge utilize personal computers, private fax machines and high quality publishing and printing capabilities. All serious Realtors have a World Wide Website!!    See ours at: www.jimandpam.com  Jim is a Certified Electronic Pro!

3. What is their education and training? Jim & Pam provide 32 years of combined Real Estate experience. Jim Is a associate broker and Pam is a full-time Realtor. We have attended hundreds of hours of Real Estate related classes and seminars. We continue to attend training to stay abreast of marketing, sales and counseling skills. You should seek Agents that are experts in the field of buying and selling Real Estate---Not just picking it up as they go along.

4. Do they Have "Real World" experience? They should at least have the experience of having owned a home, preferably several homes. Also, assuming that this is not their first job, have they worked in related business fields with similar skill sets? An outside sales rep, advertising copy writer, marketing skills, etc. will bring much to a real estate career. It may be more difficult for a laborer, former teacher, accountant to transition into a successful Real Estate career. Your careful questioning will reveal if they have what it takes to bring you results.

5. What are their pricing and negotiation strategies? This answer should be "it depends".

There is no fixed program for negotiating with a buyer on a home sale, it depends entirely on market conditions and the prospective buyers motivation. Two principles should dominate your price strategy. First, if the buyer has been looking at similar homes thay will know what they can expect for their money. The market determines price. Second, your agent should provide you with data on other homes that have sold in your area. This will allow you to determine current price trends. This data will allow you and your agent to determine what the market is willing to pay and the best way to get that price.

This report is based on personal experience and published articles. It is presented as an opinion only and not meant in any way to slander other agents who do not agree with its contents.