Finding a Good Realtor

Finding a Good Realtor as a Buyer
When you’re buying, your realtor’s job is to protect you, find value, and negotiate hard.
What matters most for buyers
Look for an agent who:
Works your target area regularly (neighborhood‑level knowledge)
Understands pricing beyond list prices
Is highly responsive (homes move fast)
Explains contracts and risks clearly
Avoid agents who mainly focus on listings if you’re in a competitive market.
Where buyers should look first
Best sources:
Friends or coworkers who bought recently
Zillow/Realtor.com → filter by buyer‑side transactions
Local Facebook or Nextdoor groups (repeat recommendations)
Tip: Review activity from the last 6–12 months, not lifetime totals.
Buyer‑specific interview questions
Ask:
How do you handle multiple‑offer situations?
What strategies do you use besides offering more money?
How many buyers are you actively working with right now?
How do you point out issues before I get emotionally attached?
You want strategy and caution, not hype.
Red flags for buyers
Be cautious if an agent:
Pushes you toward a higher price without justification
Says “that’s normal” instead of explaining risks
Is hard to reach evenings/weekends
Avoids discussing inspections or disclosures
Best buyer‑agent mindset
Choose someone who makes you think:
“I feel informed and protected.”
Not:
“I feel rushed.”
Finding a Good Realtor as a Seller
When you’re selling, your realtor’s job is to price accurately, market well, and protect your bottom line.
What matters most for sellers
Look for an agent who:
Can defend their price with real comps
Has a clear marketing strategy
Gives honest feedback—even when uncomfortable
Manages timelines and negotiations aggressively
Popularity alone doesn’t equal effectiveness.
Where sellers should look first
Best sources:
Local referrals from people who sold similar homes
Google reviews mentioning communication & results
Realtor profiles with consistent listing activity
Tip: Ask how many homes they currently have listed and sold—not just listed.
Seller‑specific interview questions
Ask:
How did you price your last 3 listings, and what happened?
What’s your plan if we don’t get interest in 2–3 weeks?
How do you handle inspection negotiations?
What does your marketing include—exactly?
A strong listing agent has a plan B before plan A fails.
Red flags for sellers
Be cautious if an agent:
Suggests a higher price just to win your listing
Can’t explain days‑on‑market trends
Blames the market instead of adjusting strategy
Doesn’t bring up staging or presentation
Best seller‑agent mindset
Choose someone who makes you think:
“They’re focused on outcomes, not promises.”
Quick Buyer vs Seller Comparison
Buyers Need
Protection
Speed
Local insight
Negotiation skills
Sellers Need
Exposure
Strategy
Strategy
Marketing & deal control
Final tip (for both)
After your first meeting, send one follow‑up question by text or email.
Fast, clear reply = strong professional
Slow or vague reply = future frustration