Finding the right real estate agent can feel like a high-stakes decision — and it should. Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading to a new space, or listing a property for top dollar, the agent you choose has a direct impact on your experience and outcome. You need more than just someone with a license. You need a sharp negotiator, a market-savvy strategist, and a client-focused professional who understands what you're trying to accomplish. So, how do you find the right agent for your needs? Here’s a guide to identifying the insight, skills, and knowledge that matter most.
Look For Local Market Expertise
Your real estate agent should offer more than surface-level knowledge of your market. You want someone who knows why specific neighborhoods command higher prices, how recent sales affect your negotiation position, and what buyers are looking for right now. Local market expertise is about more than zip codes — it’s about understanding hyper-local demand, pricing nuances, and community trends.
Ask potential agents about recent transactions they’ve handled in your area. Listen for detailed insights — not just sale prices, but strategies they use to achieve outstanding results. A great agent will be able to walk you through local trends, including shifts in buyer preferences, seasonal patterns, and which types of properties are moving most quickly.
Prioritize Communication And Responsiveness
Real estate is fast-paced, and your timing can make or break a deal. That’s why your agent’s communication style matters just as much as their credentials. You need someone who listens closely, responds quickly, and keeps you informed every step of the way.
During your first conversation, take note of how well they explain the process, how clearly they answer your questions, and whether they follow up as promised. Do they ask you thoughtful questions about your goals, timeline, and preferences? If they’re slow to respond or vague early on, expect more of the same later.
The right agent should also offer communication methods that work for you, whether that’s texting updates, scheduling regular check-ins, or jumping on a call as needed.
Evaluate Their Negotiation Skills
One of the most critical roles your real estate agent plays is as your negotiator. Whether you’re buying or selling, you need someone who can advocate fiercely for your best interests while maintaining professionalism. Great negotiation isn’t about being pushy; it’s about being prepared, persuasive, and pragmatic.
Ask how your agent handles competing offers or pricing objections. Look for a calm, confident approach backed by data and experience. They should be able to explain their strategy and adjust it based on your goals and the current market dynamics. If they can walk you through multiple outcomes and explain the pros and cons of each, you’re likely in good hands.
Gauge Their Network And Resources
Real estate is a team sport. A well-connected agent brings a valuable network to the table, from trusted lenders, inspectors, and contractors to off-market property leads and inside scoops on upcoming listings. The broader their industry network, the better equipped they are to anticipate needs and solve problems before they escalate.
If you’re selling, ask about photography, staging, and the marketing strategy. If you’re buying, find out how they’ll help you gain access to competitive properties or navigate tight inventory. An agent who brings excellent relationships and creative solutions to the table can help you stay a step ahead.
Make Sure They Have A Solid Marketing Strategy
When you’re selling a home, the right marketing plan makes all the difference. Your agent should be well-prepared with a specific, efficient, and multi-channel approach to positioning your home in the best possible light.
Ask how they leverage photography, video tours, online listings, social media, and open houses to generate interest. Will they tailor the marketing to highlight your property’s unique strengths? How will they attract the right buyers?
Marketing shouldn’t stop at listing your home on the MLS. A skilled agent will craft a compelling narrative around your property, reach out to their industry network, and monitor performance data to make strategic adjustments.
Pay Attention To Their Listening Skills
One of the most overlooked qualities in a great real estate agent is their ability to truly listen. Are they truly hearing what matters most to you: your timeline, your budget, and your vision?
A great listener will tailor their strategy to your goals, not the other way around. They’ll remember the details, anticipate your concerns and hesitations, and present you with options that actually match what you’re looking for.
A Real Estate Agent Who Goes Beyond The Basics
Finding the right real estate agent isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about finding someone who understands your goals, communicates clearly, brings real expertise to the table, and earns your trust at every step. Whether you’re buying or selling, your agent should offer more than convenience. They should offer clarity, confidence, and a strategy that’s built around your needs. If you’re ready to achieve your homeownership goals in Forest Hills, team up with Beth Molteni today for expert insight.
