1. How much experience do you have in my area?

Staten Island is not a one-size-fits-all market. Pricing, buyer demand, lot sizes, property styles, flood zones, commute options, and neighborhood appeal can vary greatly from one area to another.

Ask the agent how familiar they are with your specific neighborhood, zip code, and property type.

Ask: “How many homes have you successfully closed in this area or zip code?”

2. What is your pricing strategy?

The right list price is not simply a guess, an online estimate, or the highest number someone wants to hear. A strong pricing strategy should be based on recent comparable sales, active competition, pending homes, condition, location, upgrades, buyer demand, and current market trends.

Ask: “How did you arrive at the suggested price, and what data supports it?”

3. What marketing will you provide?

Putting a home in the MLS is only the starting point. A serious marketing plan should include professional presentation, strong digital exposure, clear messaging, and consistent promotion across multiple platforms.

Ask: “What specific digital platforms, photography, video, and open house strategies will you use to market my home?”

4. How will you communicate with me?

Communication is one of the biggest differences between a smooth transaction and a stressful one. Before hiring an agent, make sure you understand how often you will receive updates, who you will be working with, and how quickly you can expect a response.

Ask: “Will I work directly with you, and how often will I receive updates?”

5. How do you handle negotiation?

Negotiation is not just about price. It can include inspection issues, appraisal concerns, attorney review, timelines, contingencies, repairs, occupancy, and closing terms. Your Realtor should understand how to protect your interests while keeping the transaction moving forward.

Ask: “Can you walk me through how you handle difficult negotiations?”

6. Do you have a trusted local vendor network?

Buyers and sellers often need experienced local professionals during the process. A well-connected Realtor can often provide names of real estate attorneys, home inspectors, structural engineers, mortgage lenders, insurance agents, contractors, movers, and other trusted resources.

Ask: “Can you connect me with reputable local inspectors, real estate attorneys, lenders, or other professionals if needed?”

Note: You should always choose the professional you feel most comfortable with and independently evaluate any recommendation.

7. What happens after an offer is accepted?

In New York, getting an accepted offer is only one step. Attorney review, inspections, contracts, appraisal, mortgage commitment, title, final walkthrough, and closing all still need to be managed carefully.

Your agent should be able to explain the process clearly and help you stay prepared for each step.

Ask: “What will you do to help manage the transaction after my offer is accepted?”

The Experience You Deserve

What You Can Expect When Working With Me

Buying or selling a home is more than a transaction — it is a major life decision. My commitment is to provide the knowledge, strategy, communication, and guidance you deserve from our first conversation through closing day.

Start With The Right Questions

The right Realtor should make you feel informed, prepared, and confident.

Whether you're preparing to sell, beginning your home search, or simply weighing your options, I’m happy to help you understand your next best step.

Should I interview more than one Realtor?

Yes. Interviewing more than one Realtor can help you compare experience, marketing, communication style, pricing strategy, and overall approach.

Is the highest suggested list price always the best choice?

No. The best list price should be supported by market data, buyer demand, comparable sales, condition, and strategy. Overpricing can cause a home to sit and lose momentum.

Why does local Staten Island experience matter?

Staten Island neighborhoods can vary greatly by property type, pricing, commute options, flood zones, lot size, and buyer demand. Local experience helps guide stronger decisions.

What should a Realtor’s marketing plan include?

A strong marketing plan should include professional photography, digital exposure, social media promotion, listing syndication, open house strategy, website visibility, and consistent buyer outreach.

Continue Your Real Estate Journey

Helpful Staten Island Real Estate Resources

Whether you're buying, selling, researching neighborhoods, or simply exploring your options, these resources will help you make informed real estate decisions.