Top 7 Questions to Ask Your Burnaby Realtor Before Buying or Selling

Navigating the Burnaby real estate market can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, your choice of realtor will significantly influence the outcome of your real estate transaction. To ensure you partner with an agent who understands your needs and provides exceptional service, it's essential to ask the right questions. Here are the top seven questions to ask your Burnaby realtor before buying or selling your home.

1. What is your experience in the Burnaby market?

Understanding your realtor's experience in the Burnaby market is critical. Burnaby's real estate landscape is diverse, with a mix of urban developments, suburban properties, and scenic neighborhoods. A realtor who has in-depth knowledge of the area will be able to offer valuable insights into the trends, pricing, and demand in different parts of Burnaby.

Ask how long they've been working in the market and their track record with recent sales in Burnaby. Experienced agents will be familiar with properties that match your needs and can recommend areas that are likely to meet your goals. For instance, an agent who has worked extensively in South Burnaby will know about specific school districts, parks, and public transport links, all of which can influence your home search or selling strategy.

2. How do you determine the listing price for a property?

Setting the right listing price is crucial for a successful sale. Overpricing can lead to a prolonged listing period and price reductions, while underpricing may result in a sale below market value. Ask your realtor how they determine the optimal listing price for your property. A reputable agent will provide a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to compare your property to similar homes recently sold in the area. This analysis takes into account factors such as square footage, property condition, neighborhood, and the price of recently sold homes.

In addition to the CMA, ask if the realtor uses additional tools like market trends and current buyer demand to fine-tune the price. A well-priced home attracts more potential buyers and increases the likelihood of a quick, successful sale.

3. What is your marketing strategy for selling homes?

The real estate market has become highly competitive, making effective marketing more important than ever. A solid marketing strategy ensures that your property gets the exposure it deserves. Ask your realtor how they plan to market your home. Effective marketing strategies often include high-quality photography, video tours, and detailed property descriptions that highlight the key features of the home. Many successful agents also use social media platforms and targeted online advertising to reach potential buyers.

In addition to digital marketing, a good realtor should host open houses or private showings for interested buyers. If your home is in a specific neighborhood, your realtor might also use local outreach methods, such as reaching out to buyers looking for homes in that community. The more comprehensive the marketing strategy, the higher the chances of selling your home quickly and at a competitive price.

4. How do you assist buyers in finding the right home?

For buyers, the process of finding the perfect home can be daunting without the help of an experienced realtor. Ask your realtor how they assist buyers in locating properties that meet their needs and preferences. A good realtor will listen to your must-haves and nice-to-haves, including budget, preferred neighborhoods, and specific features like number of bedrooms, a large yard, or proximity to schools and amenities.

Additionally, inquire about the tools they use to stay updated on available properties. Top agents have access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), where all new listings appear first. Some agents even have off-market listings or access to properties not yet listed on MLS, giving you an edge in a competitive market.

Beyond just showing homes, a great realtor will guide you through the process of evaluating the property’s true value, condition, and future resale potential, helping you avoid making costly mistakes.

5. What is your communication style and availability?

Communication is key in real estate transactions. In fast-moving markets like Burnaby, decisions need to be made quickly, and clear communication can make all the difference. Ask your realtor about their preferred communication style and how often you can expect to hear from them. Do they respond promptly to emails, texts, or phone calls? Will they provide you with regular updates about new listings, showings, or offers?

It’s also important to establish how frequently you'll meet and what mode of communication works best for you. Whether you prefer frequent check-ins or occasional updates, ensure your realtor is flexible enough to meet your expectations. An agent who is responsive and keeps you informed throughout the process will reduce stress and help you feel confident in your decisions.

6. Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?

Testimonials from past clients can provide valuable insight into a realtor’s strengths and working style. Ask your realtor for references or check their online reviews. Positive feedback about their professionalism, responsiveness, and successful track record is often a good indicator that they will deliver excellent service.

A top-tier realtor should have a portfolio of satisfied clients who can speak to their ability to guide clients through every step of the buying or selling process. Don’t hesitate to reach out to past clients directly to hear their experience. If the realtor has numerous positive reviews, it’s a sign that they have the expertise and approach you’re looking for.

7. What are your commission fees and contract terms?

Before committing to a realtor, it's important to discuss the financial aspects of the relationship. Ask about their commission fees and if there are any other costs involved in the transaction. Most real estate agents work on a commission basis, which is typically a percentage of the home sale price, but make sure you fully understand the terms.

Additionally, clarify the contract terms, including the length of the agreement and any penalties for early termination. Make sure you’re comfortable with their terms and feel confident that they’re offering a fair and competitive commission for the level of service they provide.

Partner with Burnaby's Best Real Estate Agent

Choosing the right realtor is one of the most important decisions you'll make during the buying or selling process. Asking the right questions can help you gauge a realtor's experience, knowledge, and communication skills. If you're ready to work with Burnaby's best real estate agent, contact Yinon Filler today. With years of experience and a track record of successful transactions in the Burnaby area, Yinon is committed to providing top-tier service to help you achieve your real estate goals.