10 Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent Before You Hire One

Choosing a real estate agent is one of the most consequential decisions you will make in your home buying journey. The right agent does not just open doors -- they protect your interests, negotiate on your behalf, guide you through inspections and contracts, and help you avoid expensive mistakes. So how do you know who the right agent is? Start by asking the right questions.

Why the Agent You Choose Actually Matters

In a competitive market like Greater Boston -- where Newton, Waltham, and Watertown regularly see multiple offers and fast-moving inventory -- your agent is your strategic partner. The difference between a well-prepared offer and a missed opportunity can come down entirely to the experience and relationships your agent brings to the table.

Not all agents are equally equipped for buyer representation. Some focus primarily on listings. Some are newer to the business and still building their skills. Some are strong communicators but light on negotiation experience. The questions below will help you surface what you actually need to know before you commit.

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Buyer's Agent in Massachusetts

1. How long have you been representing buyers in this specific market?

General experience matters, but local experience matters more. An agent who has been active in Middlesex County for 10 years knows the neighborhoods, the school district boundaries, the flood zone quirks, the towns that are moving fast and the ones sitting slow. Ask specifically about their activity in the towns you are targeting.

2. How many buyer clients are you currently working with?

An agent stretched across too many clients may not be able to respond quickly when something comes to market. In a fast-moving market like Greater Boston, delayed response can cost you a property. You want an agent who has capacity to be attentive.

3. What is your process for finding homes that are not yet on the MLS?

The best opportunities are not always listed publicly. Experienced agents have networks -- relationships with other agents, developers, and homeowners -- that surface off-market and pre-market opportunities. Ask how they access inventory beyond what is on Zillow.

4. How do you help buyers compete when there are multiple offers?

This is a skill question, not a marketing question. You want to hear a specific, thoughtful answer about offer strategy: escalation clauses, personal letters, waiver strategy, pre-inspection approaches, closing timeline flexibility. If the answer is vague, that is a signal.

5. Can you walk me through the Massachusetts Purchase and Sale Agreement?

Massachusetts uses a two-step contract process: Offer to Purchase followed by the Purchase and Sale Agreement. The timelines, contingencies, and deposit structure are different from many other states. Your agent should be able to explain this clearly and help you understand what you are agreeing to at each stage.

6. What inspectors, attorneys, and lenders do you work with?

An experienced agent has a vetted network. They should be able to recommend a home inspector who is thorough without being alarmist, a real estate attorney who is responsive, and lenders who close on time. This network matters when things get complicated -- and in Massachusetts real estate, things often get complicated.

7. How do you communicate, and how quickly do you respond?

This seems simple but it is surprisingly important. Buying a home in a competitive market requires fast decisions and clear communication. Know upfront: Will they text you, email you, or call you? What is their typical response time? Do they have coverage when they are unavailable?

8. How do you get paid, and who pays you?

Since the 2024 changes to buyer agent compensation in Massachusetts, it is more important than ever to understand the compensation structure upfront. Your agent should be transparent about how they are compensated and whether there is anything you may be expected to contribute.

9. What happens if I want to end our relationship?

Many buyer agents ask clients to sign a Buyer Representation Agreement. Know what you are signing before you sign it. How long is the agreement? What are the terms if the relationship is not working? A confident, professional agent will have clear, fair answers to this question.

10. Can you share references from recent buyer clients in this area?

Past clients are your best insight into what it is actually like to work with this agent. Ask for references -- and follow up by actually contacting them.

Why Buyers in Greater Boston Choose the Mike Hughes Team

The Mike Hughes Team has helped buyers navigate Newton, Waltham, Watertown, and communities across Middlesex County for years. With a dedicated buyer agent on staff and deep local market knowledge, the team is built to serve buyers the way buyers deserve to be served: attentively, strategically, and honestly.

If you are starting your home search in Massachusetts and want to talk through what the process looks like, reach out to the Mike Hughes Team. We will make sure you go into this process informed, prepared, and confident.