Whether you’re buying your dream home or selling your first property, a reliable real estate agent can make all the difference. The right agent helps you get the best deal, avoids delays, and makes the entire experience smooth. But with thousands of agents out there, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a simple guide that breaks down what to look for, questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
1. Check for Local Experience
You don’t want an agent who’s just good—you want one who knows your local area inside and out. A local agent will:
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Know the average prices
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Be aware of recent market trends
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Understand what buyers/sellers in that area expect
Ask how many homes they’ve closed in your neighborhood in the last year.
2. Verify Their Licensing and Credentials
Make sure your agent is licensed and registered with the appropriate regulatory board in your country or state. You can usually verify this online. Also, check for:
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Certifications like CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative)
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Memberships in local realtor associations
These indicate that the agent is serious and trained.
3. Read Reviews and Get Referrals
Online reviews on Google, Zillow, or Facebook can give you insight into other clients’ experiences. Look for:
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Consistent praise for communication
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Positive outcomes (homes sold above asking, quick closures, etc.)
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Repeat clients
You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations.
4. Ask the Right Questions
Don’t be afraid to interview your agent. Some key questions to ask:
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How long have you been working in real estate?
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What’s your success rate in this area?
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How many clients do you handle at once?
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Do you specialize in buying, selling, or both?
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What’s your strategy for my property type?
Their answers will show their confidence, clarity, and competence.
5. Communication Style Matters
You’ll be in regular contact with your agent—so make sure their communication style fits yours:
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Are they responsive to texts or calls?
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Do they explain things clearly without jargon?
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Do they follow up and keep you updated?
An agent who ghosts you or delays responses is a huge red flag.
6. Understand Their Commission Structure
Agents typically charge 2–3% of the property’s sale price, but this can vary. Before agreeing:
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Ask for the total commission and how it’s split (buyer’s agent vs. seller’s agent)
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Clarify if there are any additional costs (like marketing, staging, etc.)
A transparent agent will break down the commission honestly.
7. Evaluate Their Network
A good agent often comes with a trusted network of:
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Mortgage brokers
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Home inspectors
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Lawyers
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Contractors
This saves you time and helps everything move faster and more smoothly.
8. Track Record with Similar Clients
Not all agents are suited for every client. For example:
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First-time buyers need more guidance
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Investors need someone savvy with ROI and rental yields
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Sellers need marketing-driven agents
Ask them if they’ve worked with clients like you, and what the outcome was.
9. Marketing Strategy (For Sellers)
If you’re selling a property, ask:
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Do you use professional photography and video walkthroughs?
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Will you list the home on major platforms?
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Do you use social media marketing or paid ads?
Great agents know how to make your home stand out in a crowded market.
10. Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, your comfort level matters. Choose someone who:
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Listens more than they talk
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Doesn’t pressure you
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Explains things clearly
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Makes you feel supported
If something feels “off” early on, it’s okay to move on and find someone else.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right real estate agent isn’t just about credentials—it’s about trust, communication, and results. Take your time to compare a few agents, ask questions, and see who makes you feel most confident. A good agent will not only save you money but also give you peace of mind throughout your property journey.
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- Discover how to pick a reliable real estate agent for buying or selling your home stress-free.
- Discover how to pick a reliable real estate agent for buying or selling your home stress-free.
- choosing real estate agent
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