Finding the Right Realtor-
10 Questions to Ask in an Interview
(and Gosia's answers)

1. Are you a full-time Realtor?

Yes, I am. I have dedicated myself to being the best at what I do. Unlike part-time agents who split their time between their "real" job and real estate, which they use to make money on the side, I am continuously striving to provide you with excellent service and representation. This is my real job.

In addition, this means that I am able to conform to your schedule and look at homes when it is most convenient for you as I will not have another job competing for my time. I will not be in any hurry, and you can feel comfortable taking your time when making one of the most important decisions of your life.

2. How many years of experience do you have?

I have been a real estate agent since 2003. Prior to that, I worked with real estate attorneys for almost 2 years.

3. What professional designations do you have and how will they benefit me?

I am a member of the National Association of Realtors. Because I am member of this prestigious organization, you can be sure that I subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics, which requires that you be treated with honesty, fairness, and loyalty. This means you can trust that I am on your side and that I will give advice that will help, serve, and benefit you and your family.

I also hold the title of e-PRO. This designation is specifically designed to keep Realtors on top of technological changes in the online world of real estate. It is an absolute necessity for all Realtors to be Internet savvy. An e-PRO's access to advanced technology can save you considerable expense, time, and effort.

Furthermore, for homebuyers my ABR designation will be of great benefit. This designation is the benchmark of excellence in buyer representation and is awarded by the Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC) of the National Association of Realtors only to real estate practitioners who meet the specified educational and practical experience criteria.

4. Do you personally answer all calls from your clients?

Yes, I answer all my calls; I also answer all my e-mail. You can be certain that you can always get in touch with me and that no one will be privy to your confidential conversations with me.

5. What systems do you have in place that will keep you in constant contact with me during the transaction?

You will have my cellular telephone number and personal e-mail address so that you can ask me a question any time. It is my policy to contact you at least once per week. However, I will most likely speak with you every day or every other day because I will be contacting you as soon as I have any news regarding your home. Although you are welcome to call or email me anytime you need to speak with me, you will find that you do not need to do so because I will be in constant contact with you.

6. Are you fully automated with your own personal computer, fax machine, copier, pager, voicemail, e-mail, cell phone, etc.?

Yes. I actually have two personal computers and that I use, one of which is a laptop that I can take with me anywhere along with a mobile printer. I can access my e-mail from any computer in the world. I have a paging system on my cell phone as well as through my office. I have a personal fax machine as well as an office fax, and I have a personal copier as well as one at my office.

7. May I see your personal Internet web site?

Yes, please visit my website at www.StarryNightHomes.com. There are many valuable resources on the site such as free MLS access where you can search for homes, mortgage calculators, free reports, real estate tips, and much more.

8. Do you have a transaction coordinator or a personal assistant?

I have a transaction coordinator who helps ensure that your transaction goes smoothly, that nothing is forgotten, and that you need to do as little work as possible. My transaction coordinator and I keep in touch via telephone and the Internet, and I am always up to date on the status of your transaction.

9. Can you give me a list of three references that I may call?

I would be happy to provide you with a list of references that you may contact. Please call or email me, and I will forward these references to you. You can also read what my past clients have said about me by clicking here.

10. Why should I work with you instead of another agent?

If you believe that real estate agents are not much more than glorified chauffeurs or the equivalent car sales people, you should not work with me. This is not the type of agent I am, and we most likely would not be a good fit. If, however, you are looking for someone that is a knowledgeable professional who will work to make sure that your interests are protected, that you get the best price when buying or selling your property, and that you are comfortable and satisfied with the entire process, please feel free to contact me for a personal interview.