Finding a great real estate agent can make all the difference in your home-buying or selling journey. Choose the wrong one, and you risk wasting time, money, and opportunities. But the right agent? They’ll guide you through the process, negotiate the best deals, and save you from unnecessary stress.
Take it from me – after choosing the wrong agent and losing months on homes that didn’t fit, my husband and I switched to someone with local expertise and a stellar track record. The difference was night and day.
Our new agent's advice proved to be invaluable. She approached each listing we toured with honesty and transparency. Five years later, when it was time to sell our home for another move, she was the only agent we called. And even though we now live two states away, she still sends us holiday cards.
Finding the right agent isn’t just about luck—it’s about knowing where to look, what to ask, and which qualities matter. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Looking for the perfect real estate agent? Clever connects you with top agents from leading brokerages like Keller Williams and Berkshire Hathaway, saving you time and money. Plus, Clever negotiates discounted rates—sell your home for just 1.5%, about half the traditional fee. Start your search today and let Clever make your real estate journey seamless. Fill out this form to get started!
How to find a good real estate agent: 4 things to try
- Try a free agent-finding tool.
- Ask family and friends.
- Ask your loan officer or another real estate professional.
- Not recommended: DIY online search.
Top 4 real estate agent finding tools in 2024
1. Try a free agent-finding tool.
Fast and easy, with potential savings: With this free, no-obligation service, top brands send multiple prescreened agents for you to compare. Some offer built-in savings for buyers and sellers.
Most sellers rely on referrals or past relationships when choosing an agent—66% of recent sellers either worked with an agent they knew or were referred by someone they trusted.[1] However, this approach doesn’t always guarantee the best match for your needs.
In fact, 81% of sellers contacted only one agent before signing a contract, which means many miss the opportunity to compare options and negotiate better terms.[1] Using an agent-finding tool solves this dilemma, giving you access to multiple qualified agents to make an informed decision.
Most companies that provide this service have 10,000+ partner agents nationwide, so you have plenty of top options to interview.
Consider these factors as you choose which agents to interview:
- Experience: Look for agents with years of expertise in your local market.
- Reviews: Check online feedback to gauge customer satisfaction.
- Activity: Review the agent’s active listings and recent transactions in your area.
- Savings: Choose tools that negotiate reduced fees or offer cash-back options for buyers and sellers.
Why it’s great: This service is faster and easier than searching alone.
The best brands, such as Clever Real Estate, work only with the best agents nationwide. Most have at least five years of experience, a portfolio of successful transactions, and a high customer rating.
Many agent-finding tools also offer built-in savings on agent fees — a welcome help with buyers now responsible for their agent commissions after the NAR lawsuit. With Clever, sellers pay just a 1.5% listing commission, compared to the typical 2.5–3% fee, keeping thousands more in your pocket. Buyers can also receive cash back after closing. Find top-rated agents in your area today.
How to choose: Look for brands that offer built-in savings and a robust agent network. Check customer reviews to determine the quality of a company’s agents.
2. Ask family and friends for real estate agent recommendations.
The most credible option — if it fits: This trustworthy referral source can help you feel more confident in your decision. Just make sure the referrer had a similar buy or sale price and compare their agent with one or two others.
Your family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers can provide excellent recommendations, especially if they’ve recently bought or sold a home in your area. This is often a popular option — 43% of buyers and 39% of sellers find a real estate agent through referrals.[2]
Why it’s great: Your network can often help you find an agent quickly and easily. They’ll want to share their great agent with you — and help you avoid poor ones.
Potential drawbacks: Consider this the start of your journey. Regardless of the glowing reviews your friends and family share, vet this agent as you would any others. The right agent for your friend may not be the right agent for you.
3. Ask your loan officer or another real estate professional.
A fast but potentially risky option: A referral from loan officers and other pros can help you find an agent fast. But they may not have your best interest in mind, so compare their referral with other sources.
Real estate pros and insiders like loan officers, contractors, and property managers tend to be well-connected to local agents. They can often provide a list of agents they work with regularly.
Why it can work: Recommendations from a contractor or loan officer can help you narrow the field of real estate agents. If these industry pros are reputable, they’ll work with highly regarded and successful agents.
Potential drawbacks: Professional referrals tend to benefit the professionals involved, so be wary. The agent they recommend may not be the best fit for your situation.
4. Not recommended: DIY online search.
A slow, difficult, and risky process: The vast number of results from platforms like Zillow and Google can be overwhelming. Plus, these sites let agents pay more for visibility.
Most buyers and sellers start with a DIY online search, such as through Google or agent-finder platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com. We don’t recommend it. Your much better off using an agent-matching platform like Clever Real Estate.
These massive platforms deliver many options with little quality control, so making an informed decision is nearly impossible. Only 7% of buyers and 5% of sellers find their agent through a general online search.[2]
Our recommendation: Start your search with better sources, like personal referrals or agent-matching services. Then, use large platforms to screen prospective agents. These sites offer easy access to sales numbers, client reviews, and other essential information.
How to find a realtor in another state
When buying or selling a home in another state, having a trusted local market expert can make all the difference. The stakes are high—you’re navigating unfamiliar territory, and without the right guidance, you risk making costly mistakes or getting a bad deal. That’s why choosing an out-of-state real estate agent you can truly trust is so important.
Local agents understand their market better than anyone else. They know the neighborhoods, school districts, and community dynamics that affect home values. They also have insights into pricing trends and market conditions.
Again, your best bet is to use an agent-finding tool like Clever Real Estate. These services prescreen local agents based on their experience, customer reviews, and transaction history, ensuring you're matched with trusted local pros.
Here’s why an agent-finding tool is ideal for finding an agent in another state:
- Nationwide reach: Most agent-finding tools have a wide reach and can connect you with agents in any state or location.
- Simplifies long-distance agent searches: Finding a good agent remotely can be challenging. These tools streamline the process by prescreening agents for experience and customer satisfaction, saving you from vetting agents yourself.
- Tailored recommendations: The service matches you with agents who specialize in specific areas by asking you about your specific needs, such as budget, location, or property type.
Ultimately, using an agent-finding tool eliminates the uncertainty of finding a qualified agent in another state, making it the most reliable and convenient option for relocation.
Key terms to understand in your real estate agent search
Realtor vs. real estate agent: what’s the difference?
All Realtors are real estate agents but not all real estate agents are Realtors. A Realtor is an agent or broker who’s also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). “Real estate agent” is a catch-all term for agents, Realtors, brokers, and associate brokers. All these professionals can help you buy or sell a home.
It can be beneficial to work with a real estate agent who is also a Realtor. Being a Realtor requires individuals to commit to a strict code of ethics and gives them access to specialized training and tools.
» MORE: Real Estate Broker vs. Realtor
Buyer’s agent vs. seller’s agent
A buyer’s agent represents the homebuyer, and a seller’s agent represents the home seller. Most agents have experience working as both, and their responsibilities depend on which side of the transaction they represent.
Previously, the seller was responsible for paying the seller agent commission and the buyer agent commission. However, the recent NAR lawsuit settlement has resulted in significant changes to how commissions work. Now, buyer commissions are no longer automatically covered by sellers, allowing buyers to negotiate or pay their agents directly. This shift increases transparency in real estate transactions and encourages competition over commission rates, potentially lowering consumer costs.
How to choose a good Realtor or real estate agent
Once you have your shortlist of agents you’d like to work with, it’s time to interview multiple agents. This might seem like something you don’t want to do, but trust me: it’s worth it. Comparing your options upfront can save you lots of money and heartache down the line.
This process takes a while (especially when balancing your regular life demands), so you may want to start about 4–6 months before listing your home. A buyer’s agent will also answer questions before you begin house hunting.
Here’s what you should align on in your interviews:
- Your goals as a buyer or seller
- The market you’re in and what it means for your goals
- Their past experience and success rate
- How the buying or selling process typically goes
- Your responsibilities and their responsibilities at each step
- What you and your agent can expect from each other (communication, availability, etc.)
If you’re selling, interview the agent inside the home you want to sell. You’ll learn how much they think your home may sell for and what repairs or improvements you might need. They can also outline marketing and negotiation strategies based on your house and neighborhood.
12 best questions to ask a real estate agent to find a good one
1. When and where were your most recent transactions?
Your agent should understand your local market. Avoid real estate agents who work outside your target area or haven’t closed a listing recently.
2. What’s the average price of homes you handle?
Look for an agent with experience in your price range. The agent should know what your target buyers or sellers want and how to market your home effectively and how to put in strong offers.
3. What’s your commission rate?
Real estate agent fees are typically 2.5–3%, although there may be room for negotiation. A listing agent might reduce their fee for a higher-priced home. Homebuyers who must now pay their buyer agent commission can negotiate a seller concession to cover the fee.
4. How much communication can I expect, and from whom?
Regular updates are essential. Some agents work with a team, so clarify who will communicate with you throughout the buying or selling process. First-time homebuyers may want a dedicated agent to walk them through each step.
5. Can you recommend lenders, inspectors, appraisers, contractors, and other professionals if needed?
An agent should have a solid local network of photographers, contractors, inspectors, lenders, insurance brokers, title companies — anyone who can assist with your home purchase or sale. That said, it’s a good idea to interview these professionals as well to make sure you’re still getting the best option for you.
6. What specific services do you provide?
Outline what the agent will or won’t do to help buy or sell your house. Ensure this aligns with any must-haves on your list, such as attending inspections or including 3D video home tours.
7. Do you have a specialty within real estate?
This gives you an idea of how invested the agent is in their field. Specialties could include property management, real estate investment, out-of-town buyers, or specific neighborhoods.
8. What kind of market am I facing? How competitive is it for buyers versus sellers?
Your agent should understand the current market and have experience working in similar conditions. They should set realistic expectations while sharing their strategy for the current market.
9. What can help me stand out from the competition?
This question assesses the agent’s process for buying or selling in your local market. They should understand what prices, upgrades, and features attract area buyers.
10. How do you determine a home’s value?
Your home’s fair market value is the foundation of a successful real estate transaction. A listing agent should know how to price your house, and a buyer’s agent should know whether a home is over- or underpriced.
11. How do you recommend handling negotiations in this market?
It’s critical to know how well the agent communicates and negotiates. Ask for examples of how they’ve handled difficult situations to understand their process and style.
12. Can you walk me through the buying/selling process and my responsibilities at each phase?
This question sets clear expectations for you and the agent. It also helps you understand how to prepare for the buying or selling process, what information your agent needs, and your level of involvement at various stages.
Questions a real estate agent should ask you
A good real estate agent should also ask questions to establish your expectations, needs, and buying or selling experience. Here are some questions to expect:
Questions for buyers and sellers
- What are your goals for buying/selling a home?
- What type of property do you want to buy/sell?
- What are your deal-breakers?
- How quickly do you want to buy/sell?
- Have you bought or sold a home before?
- What’s your preferred communication method and frequency?
- What are your expectations for a real estate agent?
- How involved would you like to be with negotiations?
- Are you familiar with the costs of selling a property (or the costs of buying a home)?
- Do you have any concerns about the transaction?
- What’s your preferred closing date?
Questions for buyers
- What’s your preferred location?
- What’s your ideal budget?
- Have you been pre-approved for a mortgage?
- Are you currently renting, or do you need to sell your home before buying?
- Have you identified any properties of interest?
- What specific features and amenities are essential?
- Will the home be your primary residence or an investment property?
- Do you prefer new homes, or would you consider a fixer-upper?
Questions for sellers
- What do you hope to net from selling?
- Do you also need to buy a home? If so, where?
- Do you want to sell as-is, or have you completed or planned updates?
- What are your expectations from a buyer?
What makes a good real estate agent?
Buyers and sellers value their agent’s experience, reputation, honesty, and trustworthiness.[3] To get those characteristics in your agent, here are some of the most important qualities to consider.
Local market knowledge
The agent should know about local property values, taxes, and new constructions and developments. They should also know how much inventory is available, what homes sell for versus their original listing price, and how quickly properties sell. This helps you set realistic expectations about what it takes to buy or sell in your market conditions.
Relevant experience and expertise
Find an agent with recent transactions in your target area, price point, and property type. Also, consider whether you need an agent with expertise in luxury properties, first-time homebuyers, or certain neighborhoods or property types. Look at the agent’s past listings or sales or ask them about their expertise during the interview.
Attuned to your needs, concerns, and priorities
Your agent should put your priorities, needs, and concerns first. Look for an agent you can trust — high-pressure tactics, poor negotiation skills, and disregard for your budget are red flags. Read an agent’s online reviews to see how they work with clients.
Professional and ethical conduct
Your agent should be able to explain the buying or selling process clearly. They should also set realistic expectations about your responsibilities and challenges and their availability and workflow. Reliability, professionalism, and an excellent reputation are key.
Savvy marketing and tech skills
A quality real estate agent stays on top of industry trends and the local market. How they promote themselves and their listings online can reveal whether they’re forward-thinking or stuck in the past.
Skilled communicator and negotiator
Effective communication is essential. Your agent should listen, respond quickly, and communicate clearly and proactively in a style you agree with.
The best agents are also skilled negotiators who understand each side's wants and can advocate for you. Ask agents how they’ve handled difficult situations in the past.
Strong local network
An experienced agent should know quality lenders, contractors, inspectors, and other real estate professionals. They can also leverage their network to help your deal move quickly.
No red flags
Your real estate agent should put your needs first — not their commission. Be wary of agents who overpromise, only talk about themselves, and don’t communicate regularly. Trust your instincts if an agent doesn’t feel transparent, professional, or ethical.
Why trust Clever to help you find a good real estate agent?
Hiring a real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Clever has helped thousands of people like you find great agents and save money on commission during the buying and selling process. We know the hallmarks of a high-quality agent because we vet them and support them through transactions every day. Plus, we have high standards—many real estate agents apply to work with Clever but only a select few are chosen.
Pick from the best agents in your area. Save money on commission.
Clever simplifies the process by carefully selecting agents from leading brokerages like Berkshire Hathaway, Keller Williams, and many more. It also secures exclusive lower rates for you. By working with Clever, you can sell your home for just 1.5%, about half the typical commission. And you can get cash back when you buy.