The Interview
Hiring a Realtor is a hiring decision for a high-stakes job. In Alberta, agents are regulated by RECA (Real Estate Council of Alberta), but skill levels vary wildly. Don't just hire a friend; hire a professional. Ask these questions to vet your candidate.
The Top 5 Questions
1. "Are you a full-time agent?" Real estate isn't a hobby. You need someone who sees the new listing the minute it hits the hot sheet, not someone who checks their email after their day job.
2. "Explain your understanding of RMS measurements." If they suggest using the "Builder's Size" or "City Assessment Size," run. A pro knows that listing a home without strict adherence to the Residential Measurement Standard creates legal liability for you. They should be able to explain exactly what is and isn't included.
3. "How many homes did you sell in my area last year?" Local expertise matters. An agent who sells 50 condos downtown might be lost selling an acreage in Sturgeon County. You want hyper-local knowledge of schools, soil conditions, and market velocity.
4. "What is your negotiation strategy?" "I'll get you the best price" is a wish, not a plan.
Buyers: Ask about their strategy for multiple offers. Do they use escalation clauses? Do they present in person?
Sellers: Ask how they handle low-ball offers. Do they counter or ignore? A pro has a playbook.
5. "How do you handle conflicts of interest?" In Alberta, "Transaction Brokerage" allows an agent to facilitate a deal where they represent both buyer and seller, but they cannot advocate for either. Ask if they will step aside to a neutral role or refer you out to ensure you have full representation.
We welcome the tough questions because we have the right answers. Professional representation is your best defense in a complex market. Connect with us today to start your home buying and selling journey!
Conclusion
Chemistry is important, but competence is vital. The right Realtor is a risk manager, a data analyst, and a skilled negotiator. Take the time to interview multiple agents and demand excellence.
Don’t leave your biggest financial decision to chance. Connect with Ryan McCann and Real Living today to experience the difference professional, data-driven representation makes.
Reference Links
Real Living’s Property Map Search
Find Out What Your Neighbour Sold For