Hattiesburg edition
Questions to ask before you hire an agent
I'm Travis DeLoach. If I were hiring a realtor in the Pine Belt, these are the questions I'd ask — and the answers I'd expect. Ask them of me, too. A good agent welcomes them.
About pricing
This is where most sellers lose money, so I'd start here.
How did you arrive at my list price?
You should hear about specific sold homes — close by, similar size and age — and what was adjusted for. If the answer is "the market supports it," keep asking. I show every comp I use.
Which comps did you leave out, and why?
A good agent can tell you why the flip on the next street or the estate sale doesn't belong in your number. Throwing out the wrong comps is how homes get over- or under-priced.
What happens if we don't get showings in the first two weeks?
You want a plan before you list, not a shrug after. Ask what they'll change first: price, photos, or marketing.
About local knowledge
Hattiesburg isn't one market. A mile can change everything.
Which parts of the Pine Belt do you actually work in?
Oak Grove, Petal, Midtown, Sumrall and Purvis all behave differently — different school districts, lot sizes and buyers. Ask for homes they've helped with near yours.
What do buyers in my area care about most?
In West Hattiesburg and Oak Grove it's often schools and newer construction; near USM it's location; out toward Sumrall and Purvis it's land. Your agent should know which one is your buyer.
How do you handle flood zones and insurance questions?
Near the Leaf and Bouie rivers this comes up a lot. An agent who brings it up early saves deals from falling apart late.
About communication
Most complaints I hear about agents aren't about price. They're about silence.
Who will I actually be talking to — you, or an assistant?
Fair question. With us it's me, Travis, and you can call or text my cell.
How often will I hear from you, and how?
Agree on it up front: a weekly update, feedback after every showing, and a same-day call when an offer comes in.
About marketing and fees
Get it in writing, then you can compare agents fairly.
What exactly will you do to market my home?
Photos, MLS exposure, online syndication, showings — ask for the specific list, not a promise.
What do you charge, and what does it cover?
Since the 2024 rule changes, commissions and buyer-agent compensation are spelled out in writing and are negotiable. A good agent walks you through it without getting defensive.
How long is the listing agreement, and can I get out of it?
Know the term and the cancellation terms before you sign.
If you're buying
Buyers deserve the same scrutiny.
Will you tell me when a house is overpriced?
Your agent works for you. I'll pull the comps on any home you're serious about before you write an offer.
Do you hold a buyer designation?
I hold the ABR (Accredited Buyer's Representative) designation. Ask any agent what training they have in representing buyers.
What will this house cost me beyond the price?
Taxes, insurance (including flood), HOA and likely repairs. A good agent helps you see the whole picture.
Put me to the test
Bring this list to a free first conversation. Or start with the numbers: share your home's details and I'll send a hand-checked value range in one business day.
More reading: how to choose the best realtor in Hattiesburg · the Hattiesburg market guide · areas we serve