What to Ask a Buyer’s Agent Before You Hire Them
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make — and the agent you hire can directly impact how smooth (or stressful) that experience is. Before you commit to working with anyone, ask these questions to make sure you’re hiring someone who’s not only qualified, but the right fit for you.
1. How long have you been a full-time agent?
Experience matters. A seasoned agent knows how to navigate shifting markets, negotiate strong offers, and avoid costly mistakes — especially when surprises pop up during inspections or appraisals.
2. How many buyers are you currently working with?
This gives you an idea of how much time and attention they’ll have for you. An agent who is juggling too many buyers might struggle to get you in the door quickly when homes hit the market.
3. Do you work with both buyers and sellers?
Some agents specialize exclusively in one side. Others do both. What you’re really looking for is whether they understand how sellers think — which helps when it’s time to negotiate your offer.
4. What’s your strategy for helping me win in this market?
In a competitive market, writing a strong offer is more than just price. Your agent should have a plan for winning in multiple-offer situations and helping you move quickly when the right home hits the market.
5. What happens if I’m not happy with your service?
You want to know you have a way out if things don’t feel right. A confident agent won’t pressure you to stay in an agreement if it’s not working.
6. Do you require a buyer’s rep agreement?
This is a standard document in Texas (and many other states), but it should be clearly explained. You should understand what it means before you sign anything.
7. How do you handle multiple offers or bidding wars?
The best agents will educate you on all the tools available — escalation clauses, appraisal gap coverage, strategic timing — and help you make informed choices that still align with your comfort level.
8. Do you get paid by the buyer or the seller?
Traditionally, the seller pays both agents, but it’s smart to clarify this upfront in today’s changing market. Ask how their commission works, and what happens if a seller doesn’t offer a buyer’s agent fee.
9. How do you keep buyers informed during the process?
Ask how often they communicate, what systems they use, and how accessible they are. You should never feel like you’re in the dark.
10. Have you helped buyers like me before?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating, upsizing, downsizing, or investing — your agent should understand your unique needs and be ready with tailored advice and support.
Pro Tip: Buyer Rep Agreements Are Now Required
Thanks to recent legal changes, if you want to view a home privately with a licensed agent in Texas, you'll need to have a signed Buyer Representation Agreement in place before stepping inside.
That means:
✅ No quick showings "just to look" without paperwork
✅ More transparency up front — from both sides
✅ A clear agreement on how your agent will advocate for you
If you’re not quite ready to commit or still exploring your options, open houses are a great way to tour homes without having to sign a buyer rep just yet. They’re casual, no-pressure, and a smart place to start if you’re still in research mode.
Ready to Buy with Confidence?
Let’s talk through your goals and what working together would look like. Whether you're buying next month or just figuring things out, I’m here to help you feel informed and prepared.