Pillar Guide

Questions First-Time Buyers Should Ask Their Agent

The right agent will help you avoid costly mistakes, navigate tricky negotiations, and keep your purchase on track. Use these questions to compare experie

1) Experience & local expertise

  • How many first-time buyers have you represented in the past year?
  • Which neighborhoods do you know best, and why?
  • What’s your strategy for finding homes before everyone else sees them?

Why it matters:

Local insight and recent first-time experience help you spot issues early and act quickly on good opportunities.

2) Offer strategy & negotiation

  • How do you advise on price and terms in a competitive market?
  • What contingencies do you recommend and when?
  • How will you position my offer to stand out without overpaying?

3) Communication & availability

  • How quickly do you respond to messages and show requests?
  • Will I work directly with you or a team member?
  • What happens if something urgent comes up after hours?

4) Lender & inspection guidance

  • Can you recommend lenders who are strong with first-time buyers?
  • What inspections do you recommend for homes in this area?
  • How do you help me understand inspection findings and repair options?

5) Fees, incentives & buyer savings

  • Do you offer any buyer incentives or credits (where allowed)?
  • How do commissions work in my situation, and what costs should I expect?
  • How do you help first-time buyers save without sacrificing protections?

Compare multiple licensed agents - for free - and choose the one who fits your goals and budget.

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*Informational only; not legal, tax, or financial advice.