Phew! We’re at the end. In this episode of the classic KT Quick Tip series, Adrian and Ariel review the final step in their process to finding the right REALTOR® for you.
The Final Step in Choosing the Right Realtor: The One-on-One Interview
So, you’ve done your homework. You’ve checked how responsive a realtor is, evaluated their social media presence, and even investigated whether they live up to their marketing claims. If a realtor has passed these three critical tests, it’s time for the final step: the face-to-face interview.
The Key Questions You Need to Ask
When meeting a potential real estate agent, don’t be afraid to ask tough questions. The answers will reveal if they have the experience, market knowledge, and dedication you need.
First, and MOST IMPORTANTLY:
What Value and Services do You Provide and What’s Your Listing and Sale Process
Really, you could stop reading here. The rest of the suggestions can provide insight, but there are a lot of influencing variables that make them less valuable on their own. A great agent will provide several services to; ensure your home looks good in person and online, the upgrades and features that add value are properly showcased, visitors are properly logged, followed up with, and kept in the loop of offers and listing updates, and how examples of how they handle themselves with it comes to dealing with offers.
How long do your listings typically stay on the market?
This helps you gauge their efficiency. While market conditions vary, a consistently high days-on-market (DOM) could indicate a problem with their pricing strategy or marketing approach.
What is your average list-to-sale price ratio?
This number reflects how well they negotiate. If their homes consistently sell below 90% of the asking price, they might not be fighting hard enough for their clients.
Are you a full-time or part-time agent?
A full-time agent is more likely to be focused on their clients and actively engaged in the market. You want someone who makes real estate their top priority, not a side hustle.
Recent Update:
In an episode of The Real Estate Podcast, Ariel and Adrian discussed how the terms full-time and part-time aren’t as black and white as they might seem. You could have a newer agent juggling family and financial obligations who works a salaried position during the day but hustles on real estate late into the night—often providing incredible value. It’s not that they aren’t capable of leading a successful sale, but it’s important to clarify: Are they fully available when you need them, or only outside of their primary job?
For example, we run two businesses—The KT Real Estate Team and Renti, our property management company—and both are thriving. It’s not about the number of hours; it’s about the dedication, expertise, and ability to deliver results.
What you want to avoid are the true hobbyists—the agents who treat real estate as a side gig, don’t know the market intimately, lack real sales experience, and ultimately offer little value to their clients.
Are you familiar with my target area?
If you’re buying, ask whether they’ve helped other buyers find homes in your preferred neighbourhoods. If you’re selling, find out if they’ve recently sold homes similar to yours in price and location. A local expert will know the market trends, pricing strategies, and key selling points for your area.
PRO TIP: Adrian wanted to jump in here to say that while there can be benefits to working with a local REALTOR®, our team regularly buys and sells homes outside of our immediate area. Thanks to our membership with multiple local real estate boards across the province, we have access to the same data, take the time to research each market thoroughly, and apply our proven best practices wherever we go.
Adrian even says he’d confidently go toe-to-toe with any local agent, emphasizing that hiring a true professional is more important than simply choosing a local agent. (Of course, the local agent may be the best choice—but the two aren’t always synonymous.)
Can you provide references from past clients?
A reputable agent should have no problem sharing references. Speaking to past clients can give you real insights into what working with them is actually like. Or, even better than asking an agent for references, look up past sales and visit the houses directly so that the agent can’t selectively choose people.
Finding the Right Fit Matters
Beyond the numbers and experience, choosing a realtor is also about personal connection. You’ll be trusting them with one of the most significant financial decisions of your life—so you want to feel confident that they genuinely have your best interests at heart.
Don’t hesitate to interview multiple agents before making a decision. The right realtor will be knowledgeable, communicative, and someone you actually enjoy working with.
Buying or selling a home is a big deal—make sure you have the right person in your corner.
Want expert guidance for your next move? Contact KT Realty at 1 (800) 617-0090 or email [email protected] today!
Don’t forget to check out all four parts of Finding the Perfect Realtor!
