Buying a home is exciting, but it’s also a big decision financially, emotionally, and practically. Choosing the right real estate agent can make the process smoother, clearer, and a lot less stressful.

The right agent isn’t just someone who knows how to find listings. They’re your guide, your negotiator, your advocate, and often your biggest reality check along the way.

Here’s a thoughtful list of questions to ask when you’re choosing who to work with—and why they matter.

Are you familiar with buyers using my type of financing?

If you’re planning to use a VA, FHA, USDA, or any loan with specific property requirements, you’ll want an agent who knows what those loans require.

For example, VA loans have minimum property standards that focus on major safety and livability issues, like broken heating systems, non-functional utilities, unsafe stairways, or major roof damage. An agent who understands these requirements can help you avoid falling for a home that might not pass inspection or appraisal.

Good follow-up questions:

• Have you worked with VA/FHA/USDA buyers before?
• How do you help spot potential problems early in the process?
• Can you advise on whether a home might qualify before we make an offer?

How familiar are you with the neighborhoods I’m interested in?

Local expertise matters more than most buyers realize.

An agent with recent experience in your target neighborhoods will know how quickly homes are selling, what typical inspection issues come up, and how pricing trends are shifting. They can give you real-time advice about what to expect—and what to avoid.

Helpful follow-up:

• How many buyers have you helped in these areas recently?
• What pricing trends are you seeing?
• Are there common red flags I should watch for in older or newer homes around here?

How do you usually communicate with clients?

When homes are selling fast, communication speed matters.

You’ll want to know how the agent prefers to communicate (text, email, phone) and how quickly you can expect a response, especially when you find a home you love.

Ask questions like:

• What’s your typical response time if I call or text?
• Are you available on evenings and weekends if needed?
• If you’re unavailable, do you have someone who covers for you?

How do you guide buyers through inspections and repairs?

Inspections almost always find something. It might be a minor repair, or it might be a deal-breaker. A good agent helps you sort through what’s important, what’s negotiable, and what’s a normal part of buying a home.

You want someone who can advocate for repairs when needed—but who also knows when it makes sense to move forward.

Good follow-up questions:

• How do you help buyers interpret inspection reports?
• How do you advise clients when deciding whether to request repairs or credits?
• Can you give an example where you helped a buyer negotiate repairs?

How do you advise buyers on making competitive offers?

Writing an offer is about more than just offering the highest price. Sometimes things like flexible closing dates, larger deposits, escalation clauses, or appraisal gap coverage can make a difference.

You want an agent who will explain all the options—and help you craft a smart offer, not just an emotional one.

Helpful questions:

• How do you help buyers make offers that stand out without overpaying?
• How do you determine whether a home’s asking price is fair?
• Can you give an example where you helped a buyer win a competitive offer?

How do you structure your compensation?

Real estate commissions have gotten more attention lately, and it’s a smart idea to ask upfront how your agent gets paid and what’s expected of you.

In many cases, the seller still covers the buyer’s agent commission—but that’s not automatic. Some buyers may be asked to agree to pay a portion of their agent’s fee depending on the market, the deal, or their buyer representation agreement.

Important questions to ask:

• How is your commission structured?
• Will I be responsible for paying any part of your commission directly?
• If the seller offers less commission than expected, how is that handled?

Understanding the financial side ahead of time avoids surprises later and makes sure you’re on the same page about your agent’s role and costs.

How do you support buyers after closing?

The relationship shouldn’t end at the closing table. Good agents stay connected after closing, helping clients with contractor recommendations, homeownership tips, and answering questions that come up as you settle into your new home.

Helpful questions:

• Will you stay in touch after the sale if I need advice or resources?
• Do you have a list of trusted vendors (contractors, painters, etc.) you recommend?
• How do you support clients even after closing?

Choosing an Agent is About More Than Just Finding Homes

Your agent is your guide, your advocate, and sometimes your voice of reason when things get emotional. Asking thoughtful questions now can save you a lot of stress later and make sure you’re working with someone who sees your long-term success, not just your next transaction.

If you’re thinking about buying soon, we’re happy to help connect you with trusted agents and help you explore your mortgage options whenever you’re ready to take the next step.

Note: Movement Mortgage is not affiliated, endorsed, or sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs or Federal Housing Administration, United States Department of Agriculture or any other government agency.