How to Find a Real Estate Agent You’ll Love
2026
As a buyer, the success of your relationship with your real estate agent depends on research, chemistry, communications, and patience, among other things. Here’s how to find a real estate agent you’ll love, and how to keep the relationship positive throughout the long buying process.
1. Research. After doing some initial online research, it’s smart to start contacting agents. The best time to connect with an agent, in fact, is when you have some knowledge of your local market but are ready for a professional’s guidance. Ask friends, family and co-workers for referrals. Post what you’re looking for in an agent on Facebook, too.
2. Hit the open houses. Open houses are a great way to learn about the local real estate market and scout for agents. When you visit an open house, introduce yourself to the listing agent. Get a feel for their style, experience and knowledge.
3. Go slowly. Buying a home can be extremely emotional. Your agent will be with you through ups, downs and trying times and will learn a lot about your finances. So take the time to ensure you have the best person by your side. If you rush into a relationship with the wrong agent, you’ll regret it later. There’s rarely a buyer-agent legal contract, but it can still be difficult to “break up” down the road.
4. Look for ‘chemistry.’ As with any relationship, chemistry is key. When interviewing an agent, ask yourself: ‘Would I want to spend a lot of time with this agent?’ ‘Does he get me?’ ‘Will I feel comfortable sharing financial and other personal information with him?’ If the answer is ‘no,’ keep looking.
5. Don’t play the blame game. It’s not likely you’ll get the first or even the third home you bid on. Unfortunately, buyers get stressed by this and sometimes take out their anger and frustration on their agent. Of course, agents aren’t perfect; they’re people. But don’t automatically assume that your bid wasn’t accepted due to some fault of your agent’s. Instead, pick the agent that’s right for you. Trust him to do his job. Treat him as you’d expected to be treated. And chalk up a losing bid to experience.
6. Be patient. During the long buying process, it’s easy to lose patience. Whatever the situation, keep in mind that buying the right home shouldn’t be rushed. Give the process, and your agent, time. On the other hand, if your agent seems to be neglecting you, speak up.
7. Communicate clearly. Be upfront from the beginning about what you can afford and what you need, like, and dislike. Express any concerns with your agent along the way. Give the agent constructive feedback that will help him succeed.
