Here are five:

Are you licensed?

Realtors should have their license numbers on their first-contact materials, such as business cards, flyers and local advertisements.

Are you a Realtor?

Realtors should be able to show they’ve made an investment in their career. A real estate agent who is not a Realtor is like hiring an unlicensed contractor. The unlicensed person might be able to perform many of the same tasks as a licensed contractor, but without a trade organization holding them accountable to certain professional standards, you the consumer face far greater risk should something go wrong during any phase of the relationship and transaction.

How much experience do you have?

Experience counts, if for no other reason, because no two transactions are alike. This is a problem-solving business.

How are you specifically going to market my home?

Your finalist should produce a specific marketing plan for your home that comprises an Internet presence, flyers, advertisements, signage, networking niches, etc. The advertising and marketing plan should be as detailed and specific as possible. Like any good business plan, it should list goals and tactics and timetables.

How will you communicate with me?

Too often Realtors get a listing and then you never hear from them again. If you’re the type of the person who wants to hear daily or weekly from you Realtor, communicate that desire upfront. For three months or longer, the two of you are going to be joined at the hip so you have to get along well with each other. You have to respect each other. Don’t just trust your impression. Ask your candidate for references. Better yet, ask to speak with the homeowners of some of their current listings. You want unvarnished feedback.

Please call me with any other questions or real estate concerns you may have. My number is (909) 374-4744.