Buying or selling a property can be exciting, but it can also feel stressful if you do not have the right real estate agent helping you.
A good agent can help you understand the market, compare homes, price a property, prepare an offer, negotiate terms, and avoid common mistakes.
So how do you choose the right real estate agent? Here are a few simple things to look for before you decide.
If you are buying for the first time, you may also want to read our guide on tips for first-time homebuyers.
1. Look for Relevant Experience
Experience matters, but the right kind of experience matters even more.
If you are buying a condo, selling a luxury home, purchasing your first house, or investing in rental property, you want an agent who understands that type of transaction.
Ask the agent how long they have been working in real estate, what areas they serve, and what types of clients they usually help.
You can also ask how many recent transactions they have handled in your price range or neighborhood.
If you are comparing condos, read our article on whether you pay monthly for a condo.
2. Choose Someone Proactive
The right real estate agent should be proactive, organized, and willing to put in the work.
If you are selling, ask how they plan to market your property. This may include pricing strategy, listing photos, online exposure, open houses, social media, email marketing, and follow-up with buyer agents.
If you are buying, ask how they will help you find homes, compare neighborhoods, review market value, and move quickly when the right property appears.
A strong agent should not just wait for things to happen. They should help guide the process and keep you informed.
If you are buying a home, you may also want to review the documents needed for mortgage pre-approval before you start shopping seriously.
Thank you for subscribing!
3. Find a Good Communicator
Communication can make or break your real estate experience.
You want an agent who responds in a reasonable time, explains things clearly, and keeps you updated during each step of the process.
Ask how they prefer to communicate. Some agents use phone calls, texts, emails, client portals, or scheduled updates.
You should also ask how often you can expect updates and what happens if they are unavailable during an important moment.
If you want to understand what can go wrong during the process, read our article on common mistakes first-time homebuyers make.
4. Look for Honesty and Transparency
A good real estate agent should be honest about pricing, risks, property condition, competition, fees, timelines, and market expectations.
If an agent only tells you what you want to hear, that can be a red flag.
For sellers, an honest agent should explain realistic pricing, not just promise the highest number to win the listing.
For buyers, an honest agent should help you understand potential problems with a home, not pressure you to ignore concerns.
Ask for references, review online feedback, and pay attention to how clearly the agent explains their process.
The National Association of Realtors explains current real estate practice changes on its consumer facts page.
5. Choose Someone You Feel Comfortable With
Buying or selling a home can take time, and you may need to discuss personal financial details, family needs, timelines, and concerns.
That is why comfort and trust matter.
Before choosing an agent, meet or speak with them and see if their style fits yours.
You do not need someone who agrees with everything you say. You need someone who listens, explains clearly, and gives honest guidance.
You may also want to read our article on things realtors may not always explain clearly.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Agent
- How long have you worked in this market?
- Do you mostly work with buyers, sellers, investors, or first-time homebuyers?
- How will you communicate with me?
- How do you help clients avoid overpaying or underpricing?
- What is your plan if the deal gets difficult?
- How are your fees or commissions handled?
- Can I review the agreement before signing?
For official homebuying education, HUD also provides resources on buying a home.
Conclusion
Choosing the right real estate agent is an important decision, whether you are buying or selling.
Look for someone with relevant experience, a proactive work style, strong communication, honesty, transparency, and a personality that fits your needs.
Take your time, ask questions, compare options, and choose an agent who makes you feel informed instead of pressured.
The right agent can make the process smoother, clearer, and less stressful.
🏡 Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan
Fast, free, and secure — see how much you qualify for.
Get Pre-Approved