How To Find A Real Estate Agent

Choosing the right agent is one of the most important decisions a buyer or seller can make during a real estate transaction. Whether purchasing a primary residence, selling an investment property, or relocating across the country, a qualified professional can provide the insight, support, and negotiation skill needed to make the process seamless and successful. For many clients, the question of how to find a real estate agent that aligns with their goals and communication style is one that requires careful thought and research.

This guide explains the steps and considerations involved in how to find a real estate agent who offers expertise, market knowledge, and personalized service—qualities that are especially critical in a competitive and nuanced market.

A real estate agent is more than just a facilitator—they are your advisor, advocate, and connection to the local market. From interpreting complex contracts to marketing high-end listings, the right agent brings both strategy and execution to the table. Especially in high-value or fast-moving markets, having the wrong representation can result in missed opportunities, poorly negotiated deals, or avoidable delays.

The process of how to find a real estate agent begins with understanding what role that agent will play in your unique transaction. Some buyers need an agent with deep knowledge of a specific neighborhood. Sellers may prioritize a marketing strategist with access to premium platforms and networks. Others may require an agent who has experience with investment properties or relocation logistics. By identifying your specific goals, you can better assess which professionals are truly positioned to help you achieve them.

Location matters in real estate, and that’s just as true when searching for an agent. A professional with proven experience in your target area will have insight into pricing trends, neighborhood dynamics, school districts, and even upcoming developments that could influence long-term value. Local agents often have relationships with off-market sellers or private networks that can open doors unavailable through national search platforms.

For those trying to understand how to find a real estate agent with true local expertise, look for someone who is actively involved in the community, has closed transactions in your desired area within the past year, and can speak fluently about hyperlocal conditions. This kind of market knowledge often translates into better guidance and stronger outcomes.

Once you’ve identified potential candidates, the next step is evaluating their professional background. Every real estate agent should be licensed in the state where they operate, but beyond that, additional certifications and designations may reflect advanced training or specialization. For example, agents with certifications like Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) have committed to higher standards of education and client service.

Experience is another key factor in how to find a real estate agent. While years in the industry can be valuable, it’s also important to consider the agent’s recent transaction history. Have they successfully represented clients in situations similar to yours? Are they active in your price point and property type? Asking these questions will give you a more complete picture of the agent’s readiness to serve your specific needs.

Real estate transactions involve high levels of coordination, negotiation, and often emotional decision-making. That’s why choosing someone who communicates clearly, responds promptly, and operates with professionalism is essential. An initial consultation—whether in person or virtual—can reveal a lot about how an agent communicates and how well they listen to your priorities.

Compatibility is often overlooked in guides on how to find a real estate agent, but it plays a significant role in the experience. A strong agent-client relationship is built on trust, mutual respect, and aligned expectations. Buyers and sellers should feel confident that their agent is transparent, honest, and committed to advocating on their behalf throughout the process.

In today’s digital environment, online reviews and client testimonials offer an important window into an agent’s reputation. Search platforms, brokerage websites, and independent review sites often include feedback from past clients. Pay attention to themes in the reviews: Do clients consistently praise the agent’s market knowledge? Were they satisfied with the negotiation process? How did the agent handle unexpected issues?

While online reviews are helpful, personal referrals can be even more powerful. If you have friends, family, or colleagues who recently completed a transaction in your area, ask about their experience. Trusted referrals can provide unfiltered insight and help narrow your list of potential agents.

A well-regarded agent will also be willing to connect you with past clients or provide additional references. This level of transparency demonstrates both confidence and professionalism—two qualities that should never be overlooked when determining how to find a real estate agent.

Even if you feel confident about your initial choice, it’s wise to meet with more than one agent before making a final decision. Each professional brings a different perspective, and these meetings allow you to compare approaches to pricing, marketing, or property search strategies. Ask about how they handle negotiation, how accessible they are during the process, and how they manage client expectations.

During these conversations, also inquire about their support network. Do they have a team or work solo? Will you be dealing with the agent directly or through assistants? Understanding how each agent operates gives you a clearer sense of what the experience will be like from start to finish.

As part of the decision-making process, clients should also understand how real estate commissions work and what services are included. While commissions are typically paid by the seller and split between listing and buyer agents, it’s still important to clarify the scope of service and any potential additional costs.

In addition, clients should understand the concept of agency. Some agents represent only buyers, others only sellers, and some act as dual agents—representing both sides in the same transaction. It’s essential to understand where your agent’s loyalties lie and how that could impact negotiation strategy or confidentiality.

Understanding how to find a real estate agent includes being informed about these legal and financial frameworks so that there are no surprises down the line.

At the end of the day, data, credentials, and experience must be balanced with personal intuition. If an agent checks every box on paper but doesn’t feel like the right fit, it’s okay to keep searching. Your real estate journey is significant, and the person guiding it should inspire confidence and comfort at every stage.

Once you’ve made your decision, move forward with clarity. A professional real estate agent will guide you through the next steps—whether that involves listing your current home, beginning property tours, or preparing financial documents. The earlier you involve the right agent, the better positioned you’ll be for a successful outcome.

Navigating the real estate market requires more than just access to listings—it requires the insight, strategy, and commitment of a trusted professional. If you're wondering how to find a real estate agent who combines local knowledge with personalized service, Maura De Raedt is an excellent place to begin. Maura brings years of expertise, an exceptional client experience, and a results-driven approach to every transaction. Reach out to Maura De Raedt today to start your real estate journey with a partner who puts your goals first.