How to choose a real estate agent
Choosing a real estate agent is an important decision, whether you’re buying or selling a home. Knowing what to ask and what to look for can help you compare your options and find someone who’s a good fit for your needs.
Local Top Experts · Updated October 30, 2026
1. Start with your move
Before you start comparing real estate agents, think about what you need. Are you buying or selling? What neighborhoods are you considering, what’s your timeline, and what type of property is involved? Use those details to narrow your options. An agent may have an office nearby, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have experience in the neighborhoods you’re interested in.
2. Ask about relevant experience
Ask agents about recent transactions involving properties or situations similar to yours. What challenges came up, and how did they handle them? Who will be managing the day-to-day details? If an agent highlights an award or specialty, ask what it represents and how it’s relevant to your situation.
3. Verify their license and credentials
Before moving forward, confirm the agent’s name, brokerage, and license status with your state’s real estate licensing agency. For example, the California Department of Real Estate provides an online license lookup and consumer resources. A Verified Profile badge on Local Top Experts doesn’t replace checking an agent’s professional credentials.
4. Understand the working relationship
Before deciding to work with an agent, make sure you understand what their role will be throughout the buying or selling process. Ask how they’ll represent your interests, what services they’ll provide, how they’ll communicate with you, and what fees are involved. Review any agreements carefully, including how long they last and how they can be ended, so you know what you’re committing to.
5. Know what to expect from your agent
Ask each agent the same questions so you can get a clearer picture of how they work. How will they keep you updated? Who will handle things if they’re unavailable? What should you expect during the first few weeks? Pay attention to how clearly they answer and whether you understand what working with them would look like. A good decision should be based on more than a badge, rating, or review count.
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This guide helps you prepare questions. It is not a personalized recommendation or a guarantee about any listed professional. See what our profile badges mean.