Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. It's not just about the property — it's also about the person guiding you through the process. Choosing the right real estate agent can mean the difference between a smooth, successful transaction and one filled with stress, miscommunication, and costly mistakes. So how do you choose a Realtor you can actually trust? Here's what you need to know.
1. Understand the Role of a Realtor
A Realtor is a licensed real estate professional who is also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This distinction means they adhere to a strict code of ethics that goes beyond state licensing requirements. A good Realtor doesn’t just open doors and submit offers — they offer strategic advice, negotiate on your behalf, protect your interests, and help you navigate the entire transaction from start to finish.
2. Look for Local Knowledge
While national platforms offer plenty of listings, a trustworthy Realtor offers something more valuable: deep knowledge of your local market. They know which neighborhoods are up-and-coming, what prices are realistic, how long homes are sitting on the market, and what issues you should look out for. Ask your Realtor how long they've been working in your specific area and what recent deals they've handled there.
3. Check Reviews — But Go Deeper
Online reviews are a great starting point, but they shouldn't be the only factor in your decision. Look for patterns: is this agent consistently praised for their responsiveness, negotiation skills, or transparency? Are there red flags like “hard to reach” or “didn’t explain things clearly”? Don’t just count the stars — read the actual comments. And be wary of agents with dozens of generic, overly glowing reviews that seem fake or scripted.
4. Ask the Right Questions
Interview at least two or three agents before making your decision. Here are key questions to ask:
- How long have you been working in this area?
- How many clients are you currently working with?
- What’s your communication style?
- Can you share references from past clients?
- How do you help buyers/sellers get the best outcome?
Their answers will reveal a lot about their experience, availability, and how much attention they’ll give your transaction.
5. Evaluate Communication Skills
Trust begins with good communication. A reliable Realtor responds quickly, explains things clearly, and keeps you in the loop throughout the process. If they’re slow to reply, vague in their answers, or pushy on the phone, that’s a sign of how they’ll treat you down the line. You want someone who listens as much as they talk.
6. Ask About Their Team and Tools
Many agents work with assistants, transaction coordinators, and partner lenders or inspectors. This isn’t necessarily bad — in fact, it can improve efficiency — but you should know who you’ll be talking to most often. Also ask about their tools: do they use e-signatures, text updates, or a portal for tracking the process? These details affect your day-to-day experience as a client.
7. Pay Attention to Their Questions
A great Realtor will ask you just as many questions as you ask them. They’ll want to understand your goals, your timeline, your financial situation, and your risk tolerance. If they’re not asking thoughtful questions, they’re not planning to serve you — they’re just trying to close a deal.
8. Avoid High-Pressure Tactics
Be cautious of agents who pressure you to make a fast decision, offer to “waive the inspection,” or insist on listing at a price that doesn’t match your research. A trustworthy agent gives you honest, evidence-based advice — even if it’s not what you want to hear. They should be protecting your best interests, not rushing to get paid.
9. Review Their Track Record
Ask for a list of recent transactions. Are they experienced in the type of property you're buying or selling? Do they close deals efficiently? High transaction volume isn't everything, but a solid history of successful outcomes is a good sign.
10. Trust Your Gut
Finally, don’t ignore your instincts. You’re trusting this person with your money, your time, and your peace of mind. If something feels off — even if you can’t put your finger on it — it’s okay to move on and find someone else. You deserve to feel confident, informed, and respected.
Red Flags to Watch For
- They dodge your questions or give vague answers
- They won’t provide references or past client feedback
- They try to rush you into decisions
- You feel more like a number than a client
In Summary
Choosing the right Realtor isn’t about finding the flashiest website or the biggest billboard. It’s about finding someone who will be your advocate, advisor, and guide through one of the most important decisions of your life. Ask tough questions, do your research, and most importantly — choose someone you genuinely feel good about working with.
At Trusted in Town, we take the vetting process seriously so you don’t have to. We connect you only with professionals who meet our standards for responsiveness, expertise, and client care. Want help finding a Realtor you can actually trust? Reach out here, and we’ll connect you with someone who puts your needs first.