How to Choose the Right Realtor: What to Look for and What Questions to Ask

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and having the right realtor by your side can make all the difference. While online listings, virtual tours, and AI-driven real estate tools have made the process more accessible, working with a knowledgeable, experienced realtor remains essential. But with so many realtors out there, how do you know which one is the best fit for your needs?

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell your property, choosing the right realtor requires careful consideration. This guide will walk you through what to look for in a realtor, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid when making your decision

Why Choosing the Right Realtor Matters

A great realtor does more than just list properties or show homes. They act as your guide, negotiator, and advocate throughout the process. Here’s why having the right realtor matters:

• Market Knowledge – A skilled realtor understands local trends, home values, and neighborhood insights that online research can’t fully provide.
• Strong Negotiation Skills – Whether buying or selling, a great realtor can secure the best price and terms for you.
• Legal and Contractual Expertise – Realtors help navigate complex contracts, contingencies, and legal paperwork.
• Marketing and Exposure – For sellers, the right realtor ensures your home gets maximum visibility through professional marketing strategies.
• Time and Stress Reduction – A reliable realtor handles the heavy lifting, making the buying or selling process much smoother.

What to Look for in a Realtor

Not all realtors are the same, and finding one who aligns with your needs is crucial. Here are the top qualities to look for:

1. Experience and Track Record

Look for a realtor with a solid history of successful transactions. While newer realtors can still be great, those with a proven track record will likely have stronger negotiation skills and deeper market knowledge.

What to Check:

• How many years they’ve been in the industry
• Their past sales performance in your area
• Specializations (first-time buyers, luxury homes, investment properties)

2. Local Market Knowledge

Real estate is hyper-local, meaning market conditions can vary even between neighborhoods. A great realtor will have an in-depth understanding of the specific areas you’re interested in.

Why It Matters:

• They know pricing trends and fair market values.
• They understand local schools, amenities, and community vibes.
• They have insights into upcoming developments that may affect property values.

3. Strong Communication Skills

Buying or selling a home requires clear and consistent communication. You want a realtor who is responsive, explains things clearly, and keeps you updated every step of the way.

Signs of a Good Communicator:

• Quick response times to emails, calls, and messages
• Willingness to answer all your questions thoroughly
• Ability to explain complex terms in a way that’s easy to understand

4. Marketing and Technology Expertise

In 2025, a top-tier real estate agent needs to be tech-savvy and use modern marketing tools. If you’re selling a home, your realtor should know how to attract buyers through online platforms.

Look for an Agent Who:

• Uses professional photography and videography
• Creates virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs
• Market listings on multiple platforms (MLS, social media, real estate websites)
• Understands digital advertising and SEO to reach more potential buyers

5. Strong Negotiation Skills

A skilled negotiator can save you money when buying and help you get the best offer when selling. Ask about their approach to negotiations and how they’ve handled past challenges.

6. Positive Client Reviews and References

Check online reviews on platforms like Google, Zillow, and Facebook. Don’t just look at the star rating—read the comments to see what past clients say about their experience.

Ask for:

• Recent client testimonials
• References from past buyers or sellers they’ve worked with

Key Questions to Ask a Realtor

Once you’ve shortlisted a realtors, set up interviews to see who is the best fit. Here are some essential questions to ask:

For Buyers:

1. How well do you know the neighborhoods I’m interested in?
2. How many buyers have you helped find homes in the past year?
3. What’s your availability for home showings and questions?
4. How do you handle multiple offers in a competitive market?
5. Can you provide a list of trusted lenders, home inspectors, and contractors?

For Sellers:

1. What’s your marketing strategy for selling my home?
2. Can you provide examples of recent homes you’ve sold in my area?
3. How will you price my home competitively?
4. Do you offer professional staging or virtual tours?
5. How do you handle negotiations and counteroffers?

For Both:

1. What’s your commission structure? Are there any hidden fees?
2. What’s your approach to handling challenges during a transaction?
3. Do you work with a team or handle everything personally?
4. What’s your preferred method of communication?
5. How do you stay updated on market trends and changes?

Red Flags to Avoid

Not every realtor will be the right fit. Be cautious if you notice any of these warning signs:

• Lack of Local Knowledge – If they don’t know key details about the area, they may not be the right fit.
• Poor Communication – If they take days to respond or seem disinterested, move on.
• High-Pressure Sales Tactics – A good realtor should guide you, not push you into a decision.
• Limited Marketing Strategies – If they don’t use modern marketing tools, your home may not get the exposure it needs.
• No References or Bad Reviews – If past clients have had negative experiences, it’s best to look elsewhere.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Realtor

• Interview Multiple Agents – Don’t settle on the first realtor you meet. Compare options before making a decision.
• Ask About Their Network – A well-connected realtor can provide access to the best lenders, contractors, and industry professionals.
• Trust Your Gut – If something feels off about a realtor, keep looking. The right fit should feel natural and comfortable.
• Get Everything in Writing – Always review contracts and agreements before signing.

Finding the perfect realtor is a crucial step in a successful home-buying or selling experience. With the right guidance, expertise, and support, you can navigate the real estate market with confidence in 2025. Whether you’re looking for your dream home or selling a property, take the time to choose a professional who truly understands your needs and has the skills to help you achieve your goals.