Buying a property is one of the most significant financial decisions you will ever make. And it becomes even more essential to find the right real estate agent. The U.S. has more than two million licensed agents. But how do you find the right one? This guide simplifies how to find a realtor by providing a clear, step-by-step framework to help you select the perfect professional for your needs.
In 2025, individuals will find a realtor both traditionally and modernly. A significant number of sellers (66%) and buyers (40%) still rely on friends or family for referrals. An increasingly large number, however, are using online, data-driven agent matching services to get connected with the right agent. This change is significant since the biggest mistake that individuals commit is settling on the first agent they encounter. 75% of buyers and 81% of sellers do so. To avoid errors, consult with at least three agents before making a decision. The foundational step in learning how to find a realtor who truly fits your needs is the most essential part of the process.
Why a Great Realtor Is Your Most Valuable Asset
A great realtor does more than just show homes; they guide you through a significant financial decision. Their expert help can save you time, money, and stress.
The best agent’s biggest asset is a keen knowledge of the local market conditions. They are far more familiar with neighbourhood, school, and value trends than any website, and that is essential when pricing your home or making a competitive offer. They negotiate more than the price, such as contingencies, to get you the best deal possible. Knowing how to find a realtor with this level of local expertise is critical for a smooth and successful transaction.
The Best Methods for Finding a Realtor in 2025
| Area of Value | What a Great Realtor Provides | Why It Matters to You |
| Market Expertise | An in-depth analysis of local trends, comparable sales, and neighbourhood-specific data. | Ensures your home is priced correctly to sell or that your offer is competitive but not overvalued. |
| Negotiation Skill | It is crucial to be able to negotiate strategically on price, contingencies (inspection, financing), closing dates, and special requests. | Securing the most favourable terms possible saves you money and safeguards your interests. |
| Process Management | Coordination between lenders, inspectors, attorneys, and other parties ensures a seamless closing. | Keeping the transaction on track reduces stress and prevents costly delays. |
| Resource Network | Access to a vetted list of trusted professionals, including mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and contractors. | The Resource Network provides you with reliable experts for every stage of the home buying or selling journey. |
In 2025, you are going to possess more tools and strategies than ever before to assist you in locating a realtor. It is no longer as simple as driving by a For Sale sign. Even the most effective strategies in the current world have incorporated the use of modern technology with time-honoured, relationship-driven techniques. By exploring several different avenues, you can assemble a strong list of potential candidates to interview, which is a crucial step in understanding how to find a realtor. This chapter categorises these measures, beginning with high-tech measures and concluding with conventional measures.
1. Use a Data-Driven Agent-Matching Service
A very effective method of starting your search is by using an agent finder platform. The free services, such as HomeLight and Realtor.com, require performance data to match you with up to five qualified, pre-screened agents in your area in minutes. This modern, data-driven approach is a fantastic answer for how to find a realtor.
You only need to fill out a short online form that describes your needs. The algorithm of the platform next processes the data on agent performance, including their sales history and experience, to present you with a data-based shortlist of the best agents within minutes. The service offers an excellent, unbiased starting point for anyone learning how to find a realtor.
| Agent-Matching Service | Key Feature | Best For | Cost to Consumer |
| HomeLight | HomeLight leverages transaction data to pair you with top-performing local agents. | Buyers and sellers are seeking agents with a proven sales track record. | Free |
| Realtor.com | Offers an extensive network of agents with detailed profiles and reviews. | Buyers who want to browse many agent profiles and reviews. | Free |
| Clever Real Estate | Pre-negotiates lower commission rates (e.g., discounted listing fees) with full-service agents. | Sellers who want to save money on commission fees can do so without sacrificing service. | Free |
| Ideal Agent | Vet agents for top performance, and the company offers commission savings for sellers and rebates for buyers. | Clients who prioritise top performance and built-in savings. | Free |
2. Ask for Personal Referrals You Can Trust
Word-of-mouth is not the least popular way to find an agent without a reason. One of the most popular and trusted methods of finding a good professional is to ask your friends, family, or even your loan officer to give you some recommendations.
Referrals can be helpful, but choose them carefully. The third mistake is hiring an agent solely based on someone else’s recommendation without conducting your own research. The agent who was ideal for your friend’s city condo may not be the right specialist for the suburban homes you need. Whenever an agent is referred, make a point of interviewing him or her to determine whether his or her expertise matches your particular requirements. This is a vital step in finding a realtor who is right for you, not just your friend.
3. Conduct Your Own Online Research
For those who prefer to be in the driver’s seat when figuring out how to find a realtor, the internet is your best friend. An extensive internet search will reveal much about an agent’s professionalism and track record. Begin by visiting the agent’s website or their Zillow page, and conduct a Google search of their name to locate online reviews. Look particularly closely for patterns in your feedback.
Reviewing an agent’s website and social media is a smart step in finding a realtor. Seek a professional site and updated profiles that provide helpful information, such as the latest sales or market updates. This allows you to gauge their level of professionalism and style of doing business, even before you pick up the phone. This is the most direct way to find a competent realtor. For more on what to ask and expect from your agent, see Kristin’s About page.
4. Scope Out Neighborhood “For Sale” Signs
Occasionally, the classic approach works best. Drive through the particular neighbourhood you have in mind and observe the signs that say, “For sale.” The main indication that the individual is a local real estate agent and neighbourhood expert is when you recognise the name of the agent appearing many times, especially when you are using the internet to search for agents.
This basic observation informs you of two things: one, that the agent is active, and two, that other homeowners in the area trust him/her. Don’t simply write down the name; dial the number on the sign. The call provides you with a secure chance to test their responsiveness and style of communication. A top agent will be easily accessible, which is an important quality you will need during the process. Taking this proactive step is an effective strategy for finding a realtor who specialises in your desired location.
How to Find a Realtor: Your Vetting Checklist in 2025
After developing a list of potential candidates of interest, the next step involves vetting them to identify the most suitable candidate. And it is in the vetting process that you get to separate the good ones and the great ones. It encompasses planning, objective interviewing, and essential analysis. Take this checklist with you to serve as a guide that will help you make your final decision. To learn how to find a realtor, follow this checklist.
Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage First
A beneficial first step is to get a mortgage pre-approval before you begin interviewing agents in earnest. It shows agents you’re a serious buyer, so they’ll spend more time with you. It also provides a realistic budget to adhere to when searching for affordable homes. This step simplifies the process of finding a realtor who will prioritise your needs, making it much smoother and more efficient.
Step 2: Interview at Least Three Different Agents
Don’t just go with the first agent you meet. They might seem friendly and informed, but that can be a big mistake. Seventy-five per cent of buyers and eighty-one per cent of sellers hire the first agent they speak to. Instead, talk to at least two or three agents before making your decision. Experts strongly recommend it.
The key to how to find a realtor is finding a trusted partner. Using a combination of research, referrals, and interviews will help you choose an agent who possesses the proper skills and communication style to guide you confidently through this significant transaction. You will not regret your trouble.
Step 3: How Do I Find a Realtor Who Answers These Questions Well?
The interview will be your opportunity to probe and learn how an agent works. Having a list of prepared questions will keep you on track and enable you to obtain the information you need to make an informed decision. The answer to how to find a realtor you can trust lies in this conversation. An excellent agent should be able to respond to these questions with utmost assurance and thoroughness. This interview is the most direct way to find a competent realtor.
| Interview Question | Why It’s Important | What a Good Answer Looks Like |
| “How long have you been a full-time agent, and how many clients have you helped in my targeted neighbourhood and price range?” | Assess their experience level and specific expertise in your market segment. | The agent should provide a confident answer that includes specific numbers to demonstrate their relevant and recent experience. They should be a full-time professional. |
| “What is your marketing strategy for a home like mine?” (For Sellers) | Reveals their plan to attract buyers, showcasing their proactivity and creativity. | They have devised a multi-channel plan that encompasses professional photography, online listings, social media promotion, and open houses. |
| “How will you help me find homes in this competitive market?” (For Buyers) | Test their strategy for finding properties, including off-market opportunities. | You should enquire about their use of MLS alerts, their professional network, and their active pursuit of “coming soon” properties. |
| “Can you describe your negotiation style and provide a recent example?” | This question aids in understanding their strategy for securing the best deal and managing conflicts. | An answer that is assertive but professional, backed by a real-life example of a successful negotiation. |
| “How will you communicate with me, and how often should I expect updates?” | Establishing clear expectations for communication is crucial for ensuring a smooth process. | There should be a clear plan, such as weekly check-in calls or immediate texts for urgent matters, and a willingness to adapt to your preferences. |
| “Can you explain your commission structure and the services it includes?” | It ensures transparency on costs and helps you understand the value you’re receiving. | They provide a clear explanation of their fee and a comprehensive list of services included in that fee. |
| “Can you provide references from three recent clients?” | This allows you to verify their claims and obtain an unbiased opinion of their performance. | An enthusiastic “yes”, with contact information provided promptly |
Step 4: Watch for Red Flags
It’s just as important to spot warning signs as it is to look for positive ones. An interview can reveal if an agent isn’t the right fit. Trust your intuition; if something feels unsettling, it likely is. Staying alert can help you avoid stress later. Avoid agents who exhibit warning signs.
| Red Flag | What It Looks Like | Why You Should Be Cautious |
| Poor Communication | They are slow to return your initial call or email, and they often provide vague, rushed, or unclear answers to your questions. | This often serves as a preview of how they’ll communicate during your transaction. You need a responsive agent. |
| High-Pressure Tactics | The agent may pressure you to sign a contract immediately or insist on using their preferred lender or inspector without valid reasons. | An agent should be your advisor, not a pushy salesperson. This could suggest a misalignment between their interests and yours. |
| Lack of Local Knowledge | They are unable to provide basic information about school districts, property taxes, or recent sales in your target area. | This indicates they are not a true local expert, and you would be missing out on a key advantage of having an agent. |
| Part-Time or Inexperienced | They have another full-time job or have only closed a few deals. | Real estate is a complex, full-time profession. You need someone who is fully dedicated and has navigated various market conditions. |
| Dual Agency Pressure | Primarily shows you their listings, potentially earning a double commission (representing both the buyer and seller). | This creates a conflict of interest, as it’s difficult to advocate fully for both parties simultaneously. |
Conclusion
The matter of how to find a realtor is more about locating a trusted associate than merely outsourcing a job. It is accomplished by using a combination of research, referrals, and consideration interviews, in which you will choose an agent who not only possesses the right skills but also whose communication style makes you feel comfortable. This will be a person who will mentor you in a significant life transaction. Your search for how to find a realtor will be worth the effort you put in.
In Fairfield County, Kristin Egmont and her team are committed to offering this extent of professional guidance. We understand the local market and are dedicated to helping our clients achieve their real estate objectives in partnership with us. We know how to find a realtor; it can be a challenging process, and we’re here to be the solution. To begin your trip in Westport, CT, call us at +203-536-2626.
Buyers do not normally pay their agent. The commission to the buyer representation agent is normally paid out of the proceeds of the seller as a component of the total commission agreed upon in the listing contract. On the selling side, the commission is negotiated but usually is 5–6% of the selling price of the home, which is divided between the agent representing the seller and the agent representing the buyer.
Oh, we sign an agreement, of course. Sellers enter into an exclusive listing agreement, and buyers usually enter into a buyer-broker agreement. This agreement gives the agent responsibility, the terms of the contract, and the commission details to make both parties bound and secure.
A listing agent (or seller’s agent) represents the person selling the property. Their main responsibility is to sell the house and get the highest price and terms on behalf of the seller. The buyer broker: This person is an agent acting on behalf of the individual. The realtor assists clients in purchasing the property, locating homes, submitting offers, and negotiating in their best interest.
Yes, you can usually change realtors, but you must first check the terms of your contract. Most exclusive contracts are limited in time. In case of dissatisfaction, it is always beneficial to discuss the issue with the agent and his/her broker in the first place. You can ask for the contract to be terminated if the issues cannot be resolved.
Absolutely. A local agent offers priceless expertise on neighbourhoods, school districts, market trends, and prices in the area. The network of local contacts, which includes home inspectors and mortgage brokers, can also be invaluable to a smooth transaction.
