How to Choose a Real Estate Agent

A great real estate agent makes a smooth purchase; a bad one makes a stressful one. Here's how to find and evaluate the right agent for you.

Buyer's agent vs. listing agent

• ▸Buyer's agent represents you exclusively — finds properties, negotiates on your behalf, and is usually paid by the seller (though post-2024 NAR settlement, your agent's compensation is now a separate negotiation).
• ▸Listing agent represents the seller. Their goal is the best price for the seller. Never share your max budget with them.

Where to find agents

• ▸Referrals from friends who bought recently — the most reliable source.
• ▸Online reviews on Zillow, Realtor.com, and Google.
• ▸Open houses — meet agents in a low-pressure setting.
• ▸Local brokerages with neighborhood specialists.

The interview questions

Interview 2–3 before choosing. Ask:

1. How many buyers have you represented in this neighborhood in the last year?
2. What's your strategy in a multiple-offer situation?
3. Can you share references from recent buyer clients?
4. How do you help me assess a home's true monthly cost, not just list price?
5. What's your availability — will I be working with you or a junior?

Red flags

• ▸Pressures you to bid above your budget to "win."
• ▸Can't explain local market data or days-on-market trends.
• ▸Discourages an inspection contingency.
• ▸Represents both sides of a deal without clear disclosure.

The agent who earns their fee

The right agent knows the neighborhood's price-per-square-foot trends, spots overpriced listings, and negotiates repairs and credits after inspection. Pair their local judgment with your NestCost affordability data and you make offers that are both competitive and financially safe.