How to find a real estate agent: A complete

Finding the right real estate agent is one of the most important steps in buying or selling a home. The right agent can guide you through complex transactions, negotiate on your behalf, and help you avoid costly mistakes. Here’s a complete, step-by-step guide to finding and choosing a real estate agent who fits your needs.

1. Start with Referrals and Your Network

Most people find their real estate agent through personal referrals. Ask friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues who have recently bought or sold a home if they’d recommend their agent—and why. A personal referral gives you insight into the agent’s style, reliability, and results.

2. Research Agents Online

Once you have a few names, research their online presence. Look at their websites, recent sales, and client reviews. Check their activity on real estate platforms and social media to see if they’re active in your local market and engaged with current trends.

Online agent-matching tools and directories can also help you find top-performing agents in your area.

3. Check Credentials and Experience

Verify that each agent is licensed and in good standing with your state’s real estate board. Look for additional certifications or designations that indicate specialized training. Review their experience—how many years they’ve worked, the number of transactions completed, and their familiarity with your property type or neighborhood.

4. Interview Multiple Agents

Don’t settle for the first agent you meet. Interview at least three agents to compare their skills, experience, and personalities.

Ask questions such as:

• What is your experience in this market or with my type of home?

• How many clients are you currently working with?

• What is your marketing strategy (for sellers) or approach to finding homes (for buyers)?

• How do you communicate with clients, and how quickly do you respond?

• Can you provide recent client references?

• What is your commission structure and are there any additional fees?

• How do you handle negotiations and potential challenges?

Pay attention to their answers—look for concrete data, local market knowledge, and clear communication.

5. Evaluate Market Knowledge and Proactivity

A great agent is knowledgeable about your local market and proactive in their approach. They should be able to discuss recent sales, pricing trends, and neighborhood developments. Look for agents who suggest properties or strategies rather than waiting for you to initiate every step.

6. Assess Compatibility and Communication

You’ll be working closely with your agent, so choose someone whose style matches yours. Consider their responsiveness, willingness to listen, and ability to explain complex concepts. Trust your instincts—choose an agent you feel comfortable with and confident in.

7. Review the Contract

Once you’ve chosen an agent, carefully review their contract. Confirm the commission, exclusivity terms, services included, and duration of the agreement. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on any points before signing.

8. Red Flags to Watch For

• Vague or evasive answers to your questions

• Lack of recent sales or market activity

• Poor communication or slow response times

• Reluctance to provide references

Bottom Line

Finding the right real estate agent involves more than picking a name from a list. Start with referrals, do your research, interview multiple candidates, and focus on experience, local knowledge, and communication. The right agent will advocate for your interests, guide you through the process, and help you achieve the best possible outcome—whether you’re buying or selling.

Pro Tip: Trust your instincts and don’t rush. The time you invest in finding the right agent will pay off throughout your real estate journey.

Frequently Asked Questions: Choosing a Real Estate Agent

How can I quickly identify top-performing real estate agents in my area?

• Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like Zillow or Yelp.

• Look at recent sales data via local MLS or agent websites.

• Ask for referrals from friends, family, or other investors.

• Attend open houses to observe agents in action.

What questions should I ask during an interview to gauge an agent’s market knowledge?

• What are the current trends in my target neighborhood?

• How do you determine a property’s fair market value?

• What challenges do you foresee in this market?

• Can you provide recent comparable sales data?

How do I verify if a real estate agent is actively selling now?

• Review their current listings on MLS or personal websites.

• Ask for a list of recent closed deals within the past 6 months.

• Check social media or local ads for active marketing efforts.

• Contact their office to confirm their current workload.

Why is it important to consider an agent’s current listings and sales pipeline?

• Reflects their current market engagement and availability.

• Indicates experience with similar properties to your needs.

• Shows their ability to manage multiple transactions effectively.

• Helps ensure they can prioritize your deal promptly.

What are the key signs of a proactive and responsive real estate professional?

• Quick replies to calls, emails, or inquiries.

• Regular updates on market changes or property status.

• Initiative in suggesting properties or negotiation strategies.

• Transparent communication about challenges or progress.