How to Choose a Real Estate Agent

CallARealtor is an independent information site, not a real estate brokerage, and is not affiliated with the National Association of REALTORS®. Guides are general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state.

Step 1: Build a short list

Collect names from recent sellers and buyers you know, look at who is listing and selling homes in your neighborhood, and read reviews on several sites. Aim for three agents to interview.

Step 2: Verify the basics

• Look up each agent's license on your state real estate commission website and check for disciplinary actions.
• Note how long they've been licensed and which brokerage they work for.

Before you sign: the written buyer agreement

Since August 2024, NAR rules require buyers working with a member agent to sign a written agreement before touring homes, and offers of buyer-agent compensation are no longer made on the MLS. Read the length, the fee and how to end the agreement before you sign. See NAR: The Facts and our guide to how realtor commission works.

Red flags

• Pressure to sign a long agreement on day one.
• Vague answers about fees.
• Little recent experience in your area or price range.
• A license that doesn't show up on your state real estate commission's lookup.

Buying or selling? A buyer's agent represents you when you buy; a listing agent represents you when you sell.

Step 3: Interview

Ask about recent deals similar to yours, how they price homes or evaluate offers, how they communicate, who else on their team you'll work with, and what their agreement and fee look like. Ask for references from recent clients.

Step 4: Compare and decide

More guides

• What Does a Buyer's Agent Do? A Plain-English Guide
• Realtor Commission: How It Works and What's Negotiable
• Questions to Ask When Buying a House
• Do I Need a Realtor to Buy a House?
• Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You Hire Them