What Questions Should You Ask a Realtor Before Hiring Them?

Choosing the Right Realtor Could Save You Thousands

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, upgrading to a larger home, selling your current property, purchasing new construction, or relocating to the Savannah, Georgia area, choosing the right Realtor matters.

The real estate market in Savannah, Pooler, Richmond Hill, Rincon, Guyton, Bloomingdale, Hinesville, Effingham County, Bryan County, Chatham County, and Liberty County continues to change. Home values, inventory, interest rates, and local market trends can shift quickly. That’s why it’s important to hire a Realtor who understands your goals and knows the local market inside and out.

If you’re interviewing Realtors, here are the most important questions you should ask before making your decision.

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1. How Long Have You Been Selling Real Estate in the Savannah Area?

Experience matters but so does local knowledge.

Ask your Realtor if they understand:

• Savannah neighborhoods
• Pooler real estate
• Richmond Hill communities
• Rincon and Effingham County
• Hinesville and Liberty County
• New construction communities
• Military relocation programs
• Historic Savannah homes
• Waterfront and coastal properties

A Realtor who knows the local market can help you avoid costly mistakes and negotiate with confidence.

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2. Do You Specialize in Buyers, Sellers, or Both?

Every transaction is different.

Some Realtors focus mainly on listings while others primarily help buyers.

If you’re:

• Buying your first home
• Selling your current home
• Purchasing new construction
• Relocating from another state
• Moving because of military orders

You’ll want someone experienced with your specific situation.

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3. How Well Do You Know the Current Market?

Markets change every month.

Ask questions like:

• Is it currently a buyer’s market?
• Is inventory increasing?
• How long are homes staying on the market?
• Are sellers reducing prices?
• How competitive are multiple offers?

An experienced Realtor should provide data not guesses.

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4. How Will You Help Me Price My Home?

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is overpricing their home.

Ask if your Realtor provides:

• Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
• Neighborhood sales reports
• Pricing strategy
• Marketing recommendations
• Home preparation advice

Pricing correctly from day one often leads to more showings and stronger offers.

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5. What Is Your Marketing Plan?

Simply putting a home on the MLS isn’t enough anymore.

Ask if your Realtor uses:

• Professional photography
• Video walkthroughs
• Facebook marketing
• Instagram marketing
• Google Business Profile
• LinkedIn exposure
• Local SEO
• AI search optimization
• Open houses
• Digital advertising
• Email marketing

The more exposure your home receives, the more potential buyers will see it.

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6. Do You Work With Military Families?

Military moves require unique knowledge.

If you’re relocating to:

• Hunter Army Airfield
• Fort Stewart
• Hinesville
• Savannah

Ask whether your Realtor understands:

• PCS moves
• VA Loans
• Military timelines
• Remote closings
• Local commuting times
• Schools
• Military-friendly neighborhoods

Working with someone familiar with military relocation can make the process much less stressful.

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7. Do You Help Buyers Purchasing New Construction?

Many buyers think they don’t need a Realtor when buying new construction.

The truth is, having your own representation can help protect your interests during the process.

Ask your Realtor about:

• Builder contracts
• Design center upgrades
• Inspections
• Builder incentives
• Closing costs
• Warranty questions

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8. How Often Will We Communicate?

Communication can make or break your experience.

Ask:

• Will you answer texts?
• Do you call regularly?
• How quickly do you respond?
• Will I work directly with you?

You deserve a Realtor who keeps you informed every step of the way.

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9. Can I Read Your Reviews?

Reviews tell a story.

Look for comments about:

• Communication
• Negotiation
• Professionalism
• Local knowledge
• Honesty
• Responsiveness

Happy clients usually leave honest feedback.

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10. Why Should I Hire You Instead of Another Realtor?

This is probably the most important question.

Listen carefully.

The best Realtors won’t simply tell you they’re the best; they’ll explain how they plan to help you reach your goals.

Look for someone who:

• Listens before talking
• Educates instead of pressures
• Knows the local market
• Has a marketing strategy
• Negotiates confidently
• Communicates consistently
• Makes you feel comfortable

Trust is everything.

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Thinking About Buying or Selling Around Savannah?

Whether you’re:

• Buying your first home
• Selling your current home
• Purchasing a new construction home
• Relocating to Savannah
• Moving to Hunter Army Airfield
• PCSing to Fort Stewart
• Looking in Pooler
• Searching in Richmond Hill
• Moving to Rincon
• Buying in Hinesville
• Investing in coastal Georgia

I’d be honored to help guide you through the process.

Real estate isn’t just about transactions it’s about helping families make confident decisions during important moments in life.

If you’re interviewing Realtors, I’d love the opportunity to earn your trust and show you what a personalized, client-first experience looks like.

Erv Bordner
REALTOR® | Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Legacy

📞 912-596-0460

📧 ervsellshomes@gmail.com

📍 130 Canal St., Suite 504, Pooler, GA 31322

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