Homebuyers

How to Know You've Found the One … Real Estate Agent Who Is Right for You

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, finding the right real estate agent can feel overwhelming—especially when there are so many agents to choose from. It’s a big decision that shouldn’t be made lightly.

Buyer’s agents help you purchase the place where you will live, hopefully for years to come. This may be the largest purchase you will ever make. And due to a recent lawsuit, homebuyers may now be responsible for compensating their agents.

Meanwhile, sellers are relying on their agents to help them get the most money as possible—with a minimum of hassle—on what could be their most valuable asset.

So, how can homebuyers and sellers ensure they’re working with the best possible agents?

The right agent should be attentive and responsive from the moment you reach out, said Brian K. Lewis, a New York City-based real estate agent with Compass.

“A good agent is going to demonstrate their ability to be a good agent even before being hired,” said Lewis.

“Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions,” Lewis said. “You want to make sure [prospective agents] have the time, resources, energy and communication style that work for you.”

Picking a real estate agent: online reviews, referrals, and interviews

Looking at online reviews on Google, Yelp, and real estate portals, such as Zillow and Realtor.com, can help you kickstart your search for an agent,

But keep in mind that online reviews don’t always tell the whole story.

“Do a lot of research upfront, narrow down who you want to talk to, and move forward with the interview process,” said National Association of Realtors (NAR) Regional Vice President David Kent of Charleston, S.C. He recommended interviewing at least two or three agents.    

Asking family and friends for recommendations is another popular way to find vetted professionals.

About 40% of recent buyers found their agent through a friend, neighbor, or relative, according to a 2024 NAR survey. Meanwhile, 66% of recent sellers used either a referred agent or one they had worked with in the past.

Similarly, agents should be willing to provide you with client references who can speak to their track record and style. 

Before your interview, take note of how an agent communicates over text, phone, or email and whether it matches your preferences.

“They need to speak your communication language, because you’re going to be communicating a lot,” Lewis said. 

The role of a buyer’s agent vs. a seller’s agent 

When you’re ready to meet, Kent recommends creating a checklist of the qualities and expertise you’re looking for in an agent. While many agents have experience representing both buyers and sellers, your needs as a client will change depending on which position you’re in.

• If you’re selling your home: A listing agent can help you price your home, develop a marketing plan, and negotiate with buyers. Consider asking what makes their marketing plan stand out and whether their recent sales have been above or below the asking price.
  
  
• If you’re buying a home: A buyer’s agent can help you find homes and navigate the touring and purchase process. Consider asking about their negotiation strategy and how they would handle challenging scenarios, such as your offer being rejected. 

Some agents, called solo agents, will work with you directly during each step of the process. Others work as part of a team and delegate certain tasks, such as showing your home or finalizing contracts, to their colleagues. Be sure you understand an agent’s approach before hiring them, Kent advises.

Also consider asking how many clients an agent has helped in the past year, and how many are on their current roster.

A lack of recent transactions could signal a lack of expertise. Too many current clients might be a sign someone is overextended.

Understanding real estate credentials 

Real estate professionals may use different titles or designations to describe their qualifications.

Real estate agents are licensed to do business in the states where they work and abide by relevant state and federal laws. Realtors are licensed agents and NAR members who adhere to the association’s code of ethics. 

In addition to verifying your agent’s qualifications, be sure to ask how well they know the market in your area, including their experience with properties in your price range.

While an agent doesn’t have to be a neighborhood expert to be successful, someone who is knowledgeable about local pricing data and other trends may be better equipped to guide you through the buying or selling process.

Partnering with a reputable agent can also help you successfully negotiate your deal, Lewis said. That’s because they’re likely to have strong relationships with other agents in your area.

Depending on your circumstances, you can work with an agent who specializes in working with certain clients, such as veterans, or property types, such as vacation homes.

Reputable agents should also be able to connect you with a network of other professionals to meet your needs, from home stagers to real estate attorneys.

But while network and reputation are important, finding the right agent also means trusting your instincts: Someone who looks perfect on paper may not be the right fit if your personalities just don’t mix.

“Go with your gut,” said Lewis.