How can a potential client do their due diligence on a Realtor?

A: Asking questions for information needs to be done. It’s good to know if the agent is a Realtor versus a licensee — Realtors have to abide by a code of ethics.

What’s important regarding representation, and their expectations of an agent?

How do they want to be communicated with — text, email, phone? And how often?

Are they full-time of part-time? Do they have the time to take you on as a client? You want to know that your agent is working for you.

It’s important to establish expectations and guidelines before the work starts. This takes away the element of surprise and wondering or worrying about what work is being done.

You want to make sure that your agent is knowledgeable in your price range, and for buyers, this is important when trying to decide a purchase price.

Sellers should want to see a marketing program and know what they are paying for.

Ask about recent sales, experience in the neighborhood and their business history.

Buyers and sellers want to be represented by knowledgeable agents, so asking for references from previous clients should be fine.

Jeannie Anderson, Compass,

415-271-4887, jeannie.anderson@compass.com.

A: When deciding to hire a Realtor, treat it like an interview. Ask the right questions, such as years of experience, continuing education, in what areas do they primarily work, will you be working primarily with them or an assistant, their business philosophy, what percentage of their business is representing sellers and buyers, and how many years they’ve been with the current brokerage firm.

A good start is to go to the Realtor’s website to review their resume, qualifications, client testimonials, home sales and references.

Ask the Realtor for their most recent transactions representing both sellers and buyers, and for the clients’ contact information. Often the testimonials and references on the Realtor’s website may not be current, and it is important to speak with the most recent clients they have worked with.

In many states you can go on the Board of Realtors website or contact them directly to inquire if the Realtor has had any disciplinary violations.

Hiring a Realtor to represent you in either selling or purchasing a home is a big decision, so take your time, ask your friends and family for referrals, and speak to several Realtors.

Lisa Lange, Coldwell Banker,

415-847-7770, lisalange@coldwellbanker.com; Kathleen Daly, Coldwell Banker, 415-519-6074, kdaly@cbnorcal.com.

A: Selecting a Realtor to help you buy or sell a home is a process that requires some thought. Real estate transactions are intense, short-term experiences that call for client support and expert guidance.

It is important that your agent have a good understanding of the market in the neighborhoods that you are considering. The Bay Area has multiple micro-markets, each with their own specific particulars regarding property values, level of competition, etc.

Of utmost importance is the way that the connection feels between you and your Realtor. Are they readily available? Do they really listen to your questions and concerns and have answers that are clarifying? Do you feel that your needs are first and foremost for them?

Real estate is a people profession. Making sure that you and your Realtor are a good fit will help to ensure a smoother process and more successful outcome.

Karen Starr, the Grubb Co., 510-414-6000, starr@grubbco.com;

Brenda Schaefer, the Grubb Co., 510-453-2401, bschaefer@grubbco.com.

Want to contribute to Sound Off?

Send an email to Jordan Guinn at Realestate@sfchronicle.com