Finding the right realtor is crucial to your success buying or selling in Greater Victoria. But how do you evaluate agents? Here are the key questions you should ask before hiring someone to represent you.
Market Knowledge Questions
1) "How many homes have you sold in our target neighborhood in the past 12 months?" A good agent knows the neighborhood deeply with recent transactions. 2) "What are the current average days on market in this neighborhood?" They should know current market time. 3) "What are recent comparable sales for homes like ours?" They should reference specific sales. 4) "How has inventory changed in the past six months?" Good agents track inventory trends closely. If they can't answer these questions with specifics, look for another agent.
Selling-Specific Questions
5) "How would you price my home?" Ask for a detailed comparable market analysis. 6) "What's your marketing strategy for my home?" Ask about online marketing, photography, staging, open houses. 7) "How often will you follow up with me about showings and activity?" You want regular communication, ideally weekly. 8) "What's your commission, and is it negotiable?" Standard is 5% split between agents, but some negotiate. 9) "How many active listings do you have?" Too many listings means divided attention—10–15 is reasonable.
Buying-Specific Questions
9) "How would you help me identify properties that fit my needs?" Good agents ask questions about lifestyle, preferences, budget, must-haves. 10) "Do you have access to pocket listings or off-market properties?" Top agents network and sometimes get early access to coming listings. 11) "How will you help me understand neighborhoods?" They should provide insight into community character, schools, and amenities. 12) "What's your negotiation strategy?" Understand their approach and whether it aligns with yours.
General Professional Questions
13) "How long have you been in real estate?" Longer experience often means better knowledge. 14) "What designations do you hold?" Professional designations suggest commitment. 15) "Can I speak to recent clients?" Good agents provide references—ask for both buyers and sellers. 16) "How do you stay current with market changes?" Good agents attend training, read market reports, network. 17) "What's your communication style?" You want someone available and responsive.
Local and Legal Knowledge
18) "Are you familiar with first-time buyer programs and tax credits?" They should know PTT exemptions, RRSP Home Buyers Plan, and available incentives. 19) "Can you explain the home inspection process and what to expect?" They should walk you through the inspection period and how to interpret findings. 20) "How do you handle disputes or problems that arise during a transaction?" Good agents problem-solve proactively.
Technology and Marketing
21) "How do you use technology and social media to market homes?" Strong online presence matters. Ask about their website, social media activity, email marketing. 22) "Do you use professional photography and video for listings?" Professional visuals matter enormously. 23) "Can you provide a marketing timeline and regular activity updates?" They should share weekly showings, agent feedback, and market activity.
Red Flags When Interviewing Agents
Watch for agents who: can't explain their pricing or negotiation strategy; promise quick sales or specific prices without data backing; pressure you to list at high prices; are defensive when you ask questions; don't provide references or have no online presence; have dozens of active listings with divided attention; don't ask you questions about your priorities. These are warning signs to keep looking.
Evaluating Multiple Agents
Interview 2–3 agents before deciding. Different agents have different approaches, market knowledge, and personalities. Pick the agent who knows your neighborhood, can articulate strategy, and communicates in a style that works for you. Chemistry and communication matter as much as knowledge.
Working Effectively With Your Agent
Once hired, be responsive and follow their advice. They have expertise—trust it. Provide honest information about your home's condition and timeline. Communicate concerns promptly rather than stewing silently. A good working relationship yields better outcomes.
When to Switch Agents
If your agent isn't delivering—hasn't shown your home in two weeks, isn't returning calls, isn't providing market updates—address it directly. Give them one conversation to improve. If they don't respond, you might switch agents. Good fit matters, and you're not committed to your first choice if the relationship isn't working.
I'm Dan Juricic, a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Camosun. If you have questions about the Victoria market, I'd love to help. Call or text me at [phone] or visit danjuricic.com.