Anyone can say they know Coronado. The questions below help you find out how much an agent really knows, and how they would actually handle your sale or purchase.
1. What have you sold or bought on the island recently?
Ask for specifics: what kinds of properties, in which parts of the island, and how they were priced and marketed. Recent, relevant experience matters more than a long resume.
2. Do you work with my type of property?
A Village cottage, a Shores condo and a Cays home each involve different details, from historic considerations to association documents to dock questions. Make sure your agent is comfortable with yours.
3. How will you decide on a price, or on an offer?
A good agent explains the reasoning: which comparable sales, which adjustments, and why. Be wary of anyone who just tells you what you want to hear.
4. What is your plan for marketing my home, or for finding me a home?
For sellers, ask what the marketing actually includes. For buyers, ask how you will hear about new opportunities and how quickly you can see them.
5. How do you communicate?
Ask how often you will hear from them, by which method, and who else on the team may be involved. Clear expectations up front prevent frustration later.
6. What are your fees, and what do they cover?
Commissions and fees are negotiable in California and should be explained in writing. Ask what the fee includes and whether there are any other costs.
7. Who else will be helping me?
Rudy works alongside the Patti & Jeff McKelvey Team, so there is a group behind each client. Whoever you choose, ask who handles paperwork, showings and questions when your agent is unavailable.
You are welcome to bring this list to Rudy. He will answer plainly, and if you are interviewing more than one agent, that is completely fine.
Related reading
- Coronado Home Types: How an Agent Prices, Inspects and Markets Each One — Six kinds of Coronado property, and what a good agent looks at before advising you to buy or sell one.
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