1. What type of real-estate help do you need?
Start by identifying the work ahead. Buying a home, selling a property, evaluating an investment, selling land, or marketing a rental for a landlord can require different preparation and priorities. Ask whether the Realtor regularly handles the service you need.
2. How well do they know the local market?
New Orleans and its surrounding communities are not one uniform market. Neighborhood, property type, age, condition, architecture, lot, and location can all change the questions a buyer or seller should ask. Look for a Realtor who can explain what needs to be verified for the specific property rather than relying only on broad citywide statements.
3. Can they explain property-specific questions clearly?
Older and historic homes may raise questions about renovations, systems, insurance, flood exposure, drainage, permits, taxes, inspections, and maintenance. A Realtor should help organize those questions and identify when to consult a qualified inspector, insurance professional, lender, attorney, tax professional, or contractor.
4. What will communication look like?
Ask how updates will be shared, how quickly questions are usually handled, and who will be available during showings, offers, inspections, negotiations, and closing. Sellers should also ask how pricing, preparation, marketing, feedback, and status updates will be organized.
5. What is the process from first conversation to closing?
A useful first conversation should clarify your goals, timing, budget or pricing expectations, property details, and next steps. Buyers can ask how the search will be organized. Sellers can ask what information is needed before a pricing and launch plan is prepared.
6. How do you compare an agent's experience responsibly?
Ask about the types of clients, properties, and transactions the Realtor serves, and request explanations that are relevant to your situation. Credentials and experience can be helpful context, but they should support a clear conversation about the service you will receive. Avoid relying on an unsupported ranking or a claim that cannot be verified.
7. Will the working relationship fit your goals?
The best choice depends on fit: the kind of help you need, the way you prefer to communicate, the property questions involved, and the plan for moving forward. Take time to compare answers and choose the professional who gives you a clear, comfortable path.
Questions to ask before choosing a New Orleans Realtor
- What types of buyers, sellers, investors, landowners, or landlords do you serve?
- What property-specific questions should we investigate first?
- What should I expect during the first two weeks?
- How will we communicate and track next steps?
- What information do you need from me to begin?
Local guidance for your next real-estate decision
Jonathan Schmitt is a New Orleans Realtor with Rêve | Realtors and a Preservation Resource Center Historic House Specialist. He works with buyers, sellers, investors, land sellers, and landlords in New Orleans and surrounding communities.
This guide is general education, not legal, lending, insurance, inspection, tax, or construction advice.
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