So, you’re ready to buy or sell a home, and you’re thinking about using a realtor to help you out. Great idea! A good realtor can make all the difference in a smooth and successful real estate transaction. But with so many realtors out there, how do you find the right one for you? Here are some tips to help you get started!

1. Get referrals from family and friends 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

One of the best ways to find a good realtor is to ask your family and friends for recommendations. This way, you get a first-hand account of someone’s experience with a particular realtor. Ask them about what they liked or didn’t like and how the realtor handled things. You could even ask for a referral from someone who has been through a situation similar to yours.

A group of friends sitting together, discussing real estate

2. Do your research online 🌐

In today’s digital world, a lot of information is available online. You can use major search engines to find realtors in your area or on platforms like Zillow. You can also look up reviews on sites like Yelp or Facebook to get an idea of how the realtor has treated their clients in the past. Take the time to browse different realtors’ websites as well, paying attention to their “About” and “Testimonials” sections.

A laptop on a desk, with a real estate website open on the screen

3. Schedule meetings and ask questions 🗣️

Before you sign on with a realtor, it’s important to get to know them a little better. Schedule a meeting with them, whether it be in person, virtually, or over the phone. Ask the realtor about their experience, their process, and their availability. Learn about what they see as their biggest strengths. Remember, the right realtor will be eager to help and answer your questions.

A person on a laptop having a virtual meeting with a realtor

4. Look for a good personality fit 🤝

It’s important to have a good personality fit when working with a realtor. You want someone who understands your needs and personality, someone you can trust to represent your interests. When you meet a realtor, pay attention to their communication style, their energy, and whether they make you feel comfortable. You may even want to ask for references from previous clients to get a sense of how they interacted with them.

A person shaking hands with a realtor

5. Check for credentials and experiences 📜

Like with other professions, realtors need to have proper credentials and experience. You can check with your state’s regulatory body to ensure that the realtor you’re considering is licensed and has no disciplinary actions against them. Additionally, consider the realtor’s history of sales and their experience in your local market. A seasoned realtor will bring value into your real estate journey by knowing exactly how to position your home if you are selling and knowing when a home is priced appropriately if you are looking to buy.

A realtor holding a certification or diploma

6. Ask about their marketing strategies 📢

Marketing is essential when it comes to buying or selling a home. Ask your potential realtor about how they plan on marketing your property, what promotional techniques they will use and ultimately, how they are setting themselves apart from the competition. In today’s world, digital advertising is critical, so make sure to ask about their website’s social media prowess!

A realtor discussing a marketing plan with a client

7. Trust your instincts 🤔

Sometimes, the biggest consideration when hiring a realtor is to trust your instincts. If something about the realtor doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Remember, you will be working with this realtor for potentially a few months, so it’s essential that you feel they have aligned with your vision of a successful real estate journey. If you have gone through all of the steps above and you still feel uneasy, it’s okay to move on.

A person with a thought bubble with heart and cross icons, representing decision-making and instincts

Finding the right realtor can make all the difference in a smooth and successful real estate transaction. Take your time doing your research, asking questions, and ultimately trusting your instincts!

 A happy family laughing outside a new house, representing a successful real estate transaction