Real Estate Agent
A licensed professional who helps clients buy, sell, or rent homes.
How to Choose a Real Estate Agent You Love
AHS Home Team
June 05, 2025
Choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions a homebuyer or seller can make. Follow along for our guide to what to look for in a real estate professional.
A real estate pro can help guide you through the process of buying or selling a home. They will work with you to negotiate the best deal and help ensure a smooth closing.
But do you know how to go about choosing a real estate agent?
Use our table to contents to learn more about how to choose a real estate professional – and set yourself up for success.
Why is a real estate agent so important when buying or selling a house?
Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial transactions most people will ever make. A skilled real estate agent can make the process smoother, more efficient, and less stressful by providing expertise that helps you avoid costly mistakes—and help you avoid that dreaded buyer’s remorse.
From pricing guidance to navigating complex contracts, their knowledge can save you time, money, and frustration. They’re equipped to handle everything from market analysis to negotiations, ensuring that you secure the best deal possible, whether you’re a buyer or seller.
Real estate agents also serve as invaluable guides through the intricate real estate process. For buyers, they identify properties that meet your needs and budget, arrange viewings, and handle the back-and-forth communication with sellers, and they’re essential in helping to preventing first-time homebuyer mistakes.
For sellers, they help prepare and market your home to attract potential buyers, using tools like comparative market analysis and professional photography. Their network of industry professionals, including mortgage lenders, inspectors, and contractors, can be a game-changer in addressing challenges and keeping the transaction on track.
Ultimately, a real estate agent's expertise and connections provide peace of mind, ensuring a smooth journey from listing to closing.
Understanding real estate professionals
If you’re in the market for a home, you might be wondering how to choose a realtor. As you start your search, you’ll likely see terms like real estate agent, broker, and realtor—but what’s the difference? While specifics vary by state, here’s a quick breakdown:
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Real Estate Broker
An agent who has completed additional training and licensing requirements. Brokers can work independently or manage a team.
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Realtor
A real estate agent or broker who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and follows a strict code of ethics.
No matter the title, what matters most is finding someone you connect with—someone who understands your goals, communicates real estate tips clearly, and is committed to helping you navigate the process. Whether you’re finding a realtor or wondering what to look for in a realtor, focus on building a strong working relationship to make your home-buying or selling journey as smooth as possible.
How to find a good real estate agent
Choosing the right real estate professional can make or break your buying or selling experience. Here’s how to choose a realtor and find a pro who meets your unique needs:
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Ask for recommendations
Start by reaching out to people you trust for referrals. Friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors who have recently bought or sold a property can provide valuable insights into their experiences with real estate professionals. Ask about the agent’s communication style, market knowledge, and negotiation skills to get a sense of whether they’d be a good fit for you.
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Research online
Take advantage of online resources to research agents in your area. Check websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, or local real estate office pages for reviews and ratings. Use LinkedIn or professional profiles to gauge their expertise and see if they’re active in your local real estate market.
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Consider credentials and strengths
Verify that the agent is licensed in your state and find out if they’ve earned additional certifications. Beyond their credentials, think about what different agents bring to the table and what might be best for you.
A newer agent might be highly motivated, tech-savvy, and hands-on, while a more experienced agent could offer deep market insight and strong industry connections. Rather than focusing just on years in the business, ask about their recent transactions and how they support their clients.
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Look for local expertise
An agent’s knowledge of the local market is critical. They should understand neighborhood trends, school districts, commute times, and price fluctuations in your area.
Test their knowledge by asking specific questions about your desired area, such as recent sales or upcoming developments.
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Evaluate communication style and compatibility
A strong working relationship with your agent depends on effective communication and mutual understanding. Make sure their communication style aligns with yours, whether it’s quick responses via text or in-depth discussions over the phone.
During initial interactions, assess how well they listen and whether they’re proactive about addressing your concerns.
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Understand their fees and contracts
Real estate agents typically work on commission, but it’s important to clarify their rates and terms before signing a contract. Review the contract carefully, paying close attention to the duration of the agreement and any exclusivity clauses. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification before committing.
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Stand out with American Home Shield®
Looking to really differentiate your home? When vetting real estate agents, ask if they can include an American Home Shield home warranty plan in their deal. There’s noting like a home warranty to add value to your sale and help your property stand out. Explore the real estate plans offered by American Home Shield today to find your perfect coverage fit.
AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.
