How to Choose a Realtor: Your Complete Guide to Finding the Right Agent
The right real estate agent can save you thousands and make your home buying or selling experience seamless. Here's how to find one.
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. Choosing the right realtor to guide you through this process can mean the difference between a smooth transaction and a stressful nightmare. With thousands of licensed agents competing for your business, knowing how to pick the best one requires strategy and careful evaluation.
This comprehensive guide teaches you exactly how to choose a realtor who fits your specific needs. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or seasoned seller, these expert tips will help you find a real estate professional who can protect your interests and maximize your results.
In This Guide
Why Your Choice of Realtor Matters
Not all real estate agents deliver the same results. Research from the National Association of Realtors shows that homes sold with experienced agents typically sell for 5-10% more than those handled by less qualified professionals. For a $400,000 home, that difference equals $20,000 to $40,000 in your pocket.
A skilled realtor brings more than just market access to your transaction. They provide:
- Expert negotiation skills that protect your financial interests
- Local market knowledge that informs pricing and timing decisions
- Professional networks including lenders, inspectors, and contractors
- Transaction management that keeps your deal on track
- Legal protection through proper contract handling and disclosures
The wrong agent can cost you more than money. Delayed closings, missed opportunities, and preventable problems create stress during what should be an exciting milestone. Taking time to choose the right realtor pays dividends throughout your entire real estate journey.
Where to Find Quality Realtors
The search for a great realtor should cast a wide net before narrowing down candidates. Here are the most effective ways to find qualified agents in your area:
Personal Referrals
Ask friends, family, and coworkers who recently bought or sold homes about their experience. Personal referrals remain the most reliable source because you can ask detailed questions about the agent's communication style, problem-solving abilities, and overall professionalism. About 41% of buyers find their agent through referrals according to NAR research.
Online Agent Matching Services
Professional matching services like our agent finder tool connect you with pre-screened realtors based on your specific needs. These services save time by filtering agents by experience level, specialty, and location.
Neighborhood Research
Drive through your target neighborhood and note which agents have the most "For Sale" and "Sold" signs. Agents with strong local presence typically know the market better and may have buyer connections looking for homes in your area.
Open Houses
Attending open houses lets you observe agents in action. Watch how they interact with visitors, their knowledge of the property, and their professionalism. This informal interview can reveal a lot about working style before you commit.
Find Top-Rated Agents Near You
Our free agent matching service connects you with experienced, vetted realtors in your area. Get personalized recommendations in minutes.
Find My Agent →
A good realtor takes time to understand your specific needs and preferences.
12 Essential Questions to Ask When Choosing a Realtor
Before committing to any realtor, schedule interviews with at least three candidates. Here are the questions that reveal an agent's true qualifications:
1. How long have you been a full-time real estate agent?
Experience matters, but context does too. An agent with 5 years of full-time experience typically outperforms someone with 10 years of part-time work. Look for agents who treat real estate as their primary profession.
2. How many transactions did you close in the past year?
Active agents stay sharp on market conditions and contract nuances. A healthy target is 12-24 transactions annually. Too few suggests inexperience; too many might mean you won't get enough attention.
3. What's your experience in my specific neighborhood?
Local expertise is invaluable. Ask for examples of recent sales they've handled nearby. Agents who know the neighborhood can better price homes and advise on local market conditions.
4. Will I work directly with you or a team member?
Some top-producing agents delegate work to assistants or team members. Make sure you know who will handle showings, negotiations, and your daily questions.
5. How do you prefer to communicate, and how quickly do you respond?
Communication styles must align. If you prefer texts and your agent only does calls, frustration is inevitable. Set expectations for response times upfront.
6. What is your marketing plan for my home? (For sellers)
A strong listing agent should have a detailed marketing strategy including professional photography, online listing optimization, social media promotion, and open house plans.
7. How will you help me find homes that match my criteria? (For buyers)
Good buyer's agents proactively search for properties beyond just MLS listings. Ask about their network connections and ability to find off-market opportunities.
8. Can you provide references from recent clients?
Speaking with past clients reveals insights that online reviews might miss. Ask references about challenges that arose and how the agent handled them.
9. What makes you different from other agents?
This question reveals self-awareness and unique value propositions. Listen for specific examples rather than generic claims about being "hardworking" or "dedicated."
10. What is your commission structure?
Following recent industry changes, commission rates are more negotiable than ever. Understand exactly what you'll pay and what services are included.
11. What happens if I want to cancel our agreement?
Review cancellation terms before signing anything. Most listing agreements and buyer representation contracts have specific terms for early termination.
12. What challenges do you anticipate with my transaction?
Experienced agents can identify potential issues early. Their answer shows honesty, expertise, and problem-solving approach.
Credentials and Certifications That Matter
While every practicing agent must hold a state license, additional credentials signal specialized training and commitment to professionalism. Here are the most meaningful designations:
REALTOR®
Member of the National Association of Realtors, bound by a strict Code of Ethics with 17 Articles covering duties to clients, the public, and other realtors.
CRS (Certified Residential Specialist)
Top credential for residential agents. Only 3% of agents earn this designation, requiring advanced training and proven transaction history.
ABR (Accredited Buyer's Representative)
Specialized training in representing home buyers, covering negotiation, disclosure issues, and fiduciary responsibilities to purchasers.
SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist)
Training in the unique needs of clients over 50, including downsizing, relocation, and estate planning considerations.
Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing a Realtor
Just as important as knowing what to look for is recognizing warning signs. Avoid agents who exhibit these behaviors:
Slow or inconsistent communication — If they're hard to reach now, imagine during a time-sensitive negotiation.
Pressure to sign immediately — Legitimate agents give you time to make informed decisions.
Unrealistic price promises — Agents who tell you what you want to hear rather than market reality often underdeliver.
Discouraging home inspections — Any agent who minimizes the importance of inspections doesn't have your interests at heart.
Vague answers about experience — Qualified agents readily share their track record and credentials.
Dual agency without full disclosure — Representing both buyer and seller creates inherent conflicts of interest.
Want to learn more? Our detailed guide on realtor red flags covers additional warning signs to watch for during your agent search.
The best realtors take time to explain every step of your home buying or selling journey.
Buyer's Agent vs. Listing Agent: Different Needs
The skills that make a great buyer's agent differ somewhat from those needed in a listing agent. Understanding these distinctions helps you evaluate candidates more effectively.
What to Look for in a Buyer's Agent
- Strong negotiation skills to get the best price and terms
- Patience for potentially lengthy home searches
- Knowledge of buyer broker agreements and your rights
- Access to off-market listings and coming-soon properties
- Experience identifying potential property issues
- Connections to quality inspectors, lenders, and closing attorneys
What to Look for in a Listing Agent
- Proven track record of selling homes quickly at good prices
- Professional marketing capabilities including photography and staging advice
- Strong online presence and digital marketing expertise
- Clear preparation recommendations to maximize your sale price
- Ability to attract and screen qualified buyers
- Experience with competitive offer situations
Some agents excel at both buyer and seller representation, while others specialize. Ask about their focus and request examples of recent successes in your specific situation.
How to Interview Realtors Effectively
Treat your realtor search like hiring for an important position — because that's exactly what it is. Follow these best practices for productive interviews:
Before the Interview
- Research each candidate online, including reviews, social media presence, and recent listings
- Prepare your list of questions to ask
- Know your own priorities and deal-breakers
- Gather information about your property or search criteria to share
During the Interview
- Pay attention to how well they listen versus how much they talk about themselves
- Notice whether they ask thoughtful questions about your needs
- Evaluate their knowledge of your specific neighborhood or property type
- Trust your gut feeling about rapport and communication style
After the Interview
- Follow up with references they provide
- Compare notes if you're deciding with a partner or spouse
- Don't let anyone pressure you into an immediate decision
- Review any agreements carefully before signing
Pro Tip
Interview at least three agents before making your decision. This gives you comparison points and helps you recognize which qualities matter most for your situation.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Realtor?
Our free agent matching service connects you with top-rated, pre-screened realtors in your area. Answer a few questions about your needs, and we'll recommend the best matches for your situation.
Find My Agent Now →Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Realtor
How many realtors should I interview before choosing one?
Interview at least three realtors before making a decision. This gives you enough comparison points to identify differences in experience, communication style, and approach. However, don't interview so many that you become overwhelmed — five is typically the maximum needed.
Is it better to choose a realtor from a big company or a small brokerage?
The brokerage size matters less than the individual agent's skills and experience. Large brokerages may offer more resources and brand recognition, while small brokerages often provide more personalized service. Focus on evaluating the specific agent rather than their company affiliation.
Should I choose a friend or family member as my realtor?
Working with friends or family can be complicated. While you may trust them personally, ensure they have the professional qualifications for your specific needs. Set clear expectations upfront about communication and be prepared to discuss business matters professionally. If issues arise, it's harder to walk away or provide honest feedback.
What's the difference between a realtor and a real estate agent?
All realtors are real estate agents, but not all agents are realtors. A "Realtor" is a licensed agent who belongs to the National Association of Realtors and adheres to their Code of Ethics. This membership requires additional ethical training and accountability standards beyond basic state licensing requirements.
Can I switch realtors if I'm unhappy with my current one?
Yes, but review your agreement first. Most buyer representation and listing agreements include terms about duration and cancellation. Contact your agent to discuss concerns before escalating to their broker. Many agreements can be terminated with written notice, though some may include early termination conditions.
How much does it cost to hire a realtor?
Traditionally, sellers pay a commission (typically 5-6% of sale price) split between listing and buyer agents. However, following recent industry changes, commission structures are more negotiable. Buyers may now need to negotiate and potentially pay their agent's commission separately. Always discuss fees upfront before signing any agreements.
Conclusion: Make an Informed Choice
Learning how to choose a realtor effectively can save you thousands of dollars and countless hours of frustration. The right agent becomes your advocate, advisor, and guide through one of life's biggest financial decisions.
Remember these key takeaways as you search:
- Interview multiple candidates before committing
- Ask specific questions about experience, communication, and strategy
- Watch for red flags like poor communication or pressure tactics
- Verify credentials and check references
- Trust your instincts about rapport and professionalism
The effort you invest in finding the right realtor pays dividends throughout your entire real estate journey. Take your time, do your research, and choose an agent who truly has your best interests at heart.