Why the Right Agent Matters
Your listing agent is your partner, advocate, and expert guide through the selling process. The right agent can mean the difference between a quick, profitable sale and months of frustration. In Tulsa's competitive market, local expertise and proven marketing strategies are essential.
What a Great Agent Brings
Accurate Pricing Strategy
Data-driven pricing that attracts buyers while maximizing your return
Professional Marketing
High-quality photos, virtual tours, and multi-platform promotion
Skilled Negotiation
Expert negotiation to secure the best terms and highest price
Local Market Knowledge
Deep understanding of Tulsa neighborhoods and buyer preferences
Essential Qualifications to Look For
Not all agents are created equal. Focus on these key qualifications when evaluating potential listing agents.
Experience & Track Record
Recent Listing Experience
At least 10 listings sold in the past 12 months
Your Price Range
Proven success selling homes in your price range
Neighborhood Expertise
Recent sales in your specific area or similar neighborhoods
Average Days on Market
Consistently sells homes faster than market average
Marketing & Technology
Professional Photography
Uses high-quality, professional listing photos
Online Marketing
Strong presence on MLS, Zillow, social media
Virtual Tours
Offers 3D tours, video walkthroughs, or virtual staging
Communication Tools
Regular updates via phone, email, or client portal
Interview Questions to Ask
Come prepared with these essential questions to evaluate potential agents.
Experience & Performance
"How many homes have you sold in the past 12 months?"
Look for: At least 12-24 transactions annually for full-time agents
"What's your average days on market vs. the local average?"
Look for: Performance better than or equal to market average
"What percentage of your listings sell at or above list price?"
Look for: 85%+ in normal markets, 95%+ in seller's markets
Marketing Strategy
"What's your marketing plan for my home?"
Look for: Detailed plan including photography, online presence, showings
"How will you price my home competitively?"
Look for: CMA analysis, market data, pricing strategy explanation
"What staging or preparation do you recommend?"
Look for: Specific suggestions based on your home's condition
Communication & Support
"How often will you update me on activity and feedback?"
Look for: Weekly updates minimum, immediate feedback after showings
"What's your commission structure and what services does it include?"
Look for: Clear explanation of fees and included services
"Can you provide references from recent sellers?"
Look for: Willingness to provide 3-5 recent client references
Red Flags to Avoid
Watch out for these warning signs when selecting your listing agent.
Unrealistic Pricing Promises
Agents who promise unrealistically high prices to win your listing
Poor Communication
Slow to respond, doesn't return calls, or seems disorganized
Limited Marketing Plan
Vague marketing strategy or relies only on MLS listing
Part-Time Agent
Real estate is their side business, not primary focus
High Pressure Tactics
Pushes for immediate signing without answering questions
No Recent Sales
Can't provide examples of recent successful listings
Understanding Commission and Contracts
Know what you're agreeing to before signing a listing agreement.
Typical Commission Structure
Commission is typically paid from sale proceeds at closing and split between listing and buyer's agents.
Key Contract Terms
Typically 6 months, but negotiate based on market conditions
Understand how you can terminate the agreement if needed
Clarify who pays for photography, staging, advertising
Know the agent's policy if they represent both buyer and seller