Buying or selling a home in Southwest Florida is a major decision, and one that often means the beginning of a new chapter. With so many moving parts, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process.
Choosing the wrong agent could lead to unnecessary stress or costly mistakes. The right real estate agent doesn’t just know the market. They align every decision with your goals, communicate clearly, and guide you with confidence.
To find that kind of agent, you need more than surface-level answers. These seven questions will help you uncover how an agent really works and whether their strengths and approach are the right fit for you.
What Buyers and Sellers in Lee County Should Ask Their Agent
If you’re buying or selling in Lee County—including areas like Fort Myers, Cape Coral, or Bonita Springs—the right questions can help you uncover more than just an agent’s track record. They reveal how well an agent understands your goals and whether they’ll be a reliable partner throughout the process.
1. Can you share a time when an unexpected situation in the market required you to think creatively for a client?
The market is always changing. Look for agents who can explain how they’ve helped clients adapt to changing conditions like rising rates, limited inventory, or shifting timelines. Their stories should show problem-solving, not just outcomes. Whether you’re buying in Fort Myers, selling in Cape Coral, or considering a move within Lee County, a creative agent can make all the difference.
2. How do you balance timing, pricing, and client goals while handling unexpected issues?
Success in real estate often comes down to smart timing and clear planning. Ask how they keep everything aligned, especially when one part of the plan starts to shift. You want someone who stays focused on your goals while adjusting to real-world obstacles.
3. How do you keep your clients feeling informed and confident, especially when unexpected things come up?
Clear communication builds trust. Look for agents who provide regular updates, explain complex steps in simple terms, and help you avoid surprises. Tools like checklists or timelines can be a bonus. They show proactive planning.
4. Can you share a story about a time when something seemed impossible but you found a way to make it work for your client?
Things don’t always go as planned. A great agent stays calm under pressure and finds creative solutions. Listen for real examples of how they overcame obstacles to keep a deal together or find a way forward.
5. If you could name one strength that sets you apart, what would it be and how does it benefit your clients?
Whether it’s deep local insight, strong negotiation skills, or genuine empathy, a confident agent knows how their strengths serve their clients. Look for someone who can explain how their strengths connect directly to your goals.
6. Have you ever worked with other professionals in a way that really made a difference for your client?
No agent works alone. Great agents have strong networks of inspectors, lenders, and contractors to help smooth the path to closing. Their answer should show how those relationships create better outcomes for you.
7. How do you know if your approach is the right fit for what your client needs and wants?
This one’s about self-awareness. A trustworthy agent listens first, adapts their style, and prioritizes your goals and not their sales pitch. The best ones will tell you honestly if they’re not the right fit, and that’s a sign of integrity.
How to Evaluate Real Estate Agents in Southwest Florida
When you ask these questions, don’t just focus on what they say…pay attention to HOW they say it. Do their answers feel real, specific, and thoughtful? Are they focused on your success? A great agent won’t rely on scripts. They will speak with clarity, warmth, and experience. This is especially important in a competitive Southwest Florida market where flexibility and local knowledge matter.
Find the Right Fort Myers Real Estate Agent for You
Choosing an agent doesn’t have to feel like guesswork. These questions help reveal how someone works and whether they’ll be a partner you can trust.
Want more guidance? Download our Free Home Buying Guide or our Free Home Staging Guide to feel more prepared and confident.
Ready to start the conversation? If you want more insight on what separates a good agent from a great one, check out our guide on How to Find the Best Real Estate Agent in Fort Myers. Then, Contact Worthington Realty to connect with a team that listens to understand your needs, so you feel heard, valued, and confident in your decisions.