How Do You Choose the Right Realtor When Buying or Selling?

Quick Answer

Choose a realtor who knows your local market, communicates well, has strong reviews, and makes you feel heard. Interview 2–3 agents. Ask about their experience, recent sales, and how they’ll help you reach your goals. The right agent makes the entire process easier.

What Makes a Good Realtor?

Not all agents are the same. Here’s what separates a good one from the rest.

Local Knowledge

They should know your area - pricing trends, neighborhoods, schools, and what’s selling. An agent from 45 minutes away may not know your street.

Communication

A great agent responds quickly and keeps you updated. You should never have to chase them for information.

Experience

Look for someone who’s done multiple transactions in the past year. A brand-new agent can be fine - but make sure they have strong mentorship or team support.

Reviews and Referrals

Check Google reviews, Zillow reviews, and ask friends or family for referrals. Real feedback from past clients tells you more than a website bio.

How to Find Agents to Interview

Ask Around

• Friends and family who recently bought or sold.
• Coworkers in your area.
• Your lender - they work with agents regularly.

Search Online

• Google “[your town] real estate agent.”
• Check Zillow and Realtor.com agent directories.
• Look at who’s actively listing homes in your area.

Attend Open Houses

Open houses let you meet agents in person. Watch how they interact with visitors. Are they knowledgeable? Friendly? Professional?

Questions to Ask Before You Hire

For Buyers

1. How many buyers have you worked with in the last year?
2. How well do you know this area?
3. How will you help me find homes that match my needs?
4. How quickly do you respond to calls and texts?
5. What’s your approach when we’re in a multiple-offer situation?

For Sellers

1. How many homes have you sold in this area recently?
2. What’s your marketing plan for my home?
3. Do you use professional photography?
4. How do you determine the right listing price?
5. What’s your average days on market?

Red Flags to Watch For

• Pushes you to decide quickly. A good agent gives you time and information.
• Doesn’t know the area. If they can’t answer basic questions about your neighborhood, keep looking.
• Hard to reach. If they’re slow to respond before you hire them, it’ll only get worse.
• No recent sales. Ask for recent transaction history. Activity matters.
• Overpromises on price. A seller’s agent who suggests an unrealistically high price may be trying to win your listing, not help you sell.

Buyer’s Agent vs. Listing Agent

Buyer’s Agent

Represents you as the buyer. Helps you find homes, write offers, and negotiate. In most transactions, their compensation comes from the deal - not directly from your pocket.

Listing Agent

Represents the seller. Markets the home, handles showings, and negotiates on the seller’s behalf.

You want your own agent. Don’t use the listing agent for both sides unless you fully understand the risks of dual agency.

What to Expect After You Choose

Once you pick an agent, here’s what happens next:

1. Sign a buyer or listing agreement. This formalizes the relationship.
2. Set expectations. Discuss communication preferences, timelines, and goals.
3. Get to work. Your agent starts searching for homes (if buying) or preparing your listing (if selling).

A good agent feels like a partner, not a salesperson.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch realtors if I’m not happy?

Usually, yes - but check your agreement. Some buyer or listing agreements have a set term. Talk to your agent first. If the relationship isn’t working, most agents will release you. Communication is key.

Should I use a friend or family member as my agent?

It depends. If they’re experienced and professional, it can work great. If they’re brand new or you’re worried about mixing personal and business relationships, it’s okay to choose someone else. No hard feelings.

How many agents should I interview?

Interview 2–3. That gives you enough perspective to compare experience, communication styles, and approaches. You don’t need to talk to ten. Quality over quantity.

Bottom Line

The right realtor makes buying or selling a home dramatically easier. Choose someone with local knowledge, strong communication, and a track record of results. Interview a few, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts.

Your next step: Reach out to 2–3 local agents this week. A quick phone call or coffee meeting is all it takes to find the right fit.