While many agents do both, look for someone who thrives on the buy-side. They should be experts in scouting off-market listings, spotting "red flag" foundation cracks, and understanding local neighborhood vibes beyond just the data. 2. Prioritize Hyper-Local Knowledge Real estate is all about the "micro-market." Ask them: "What’s the trend in this specific school district?"
Don't just go with the first person you meet. Ask these "litmus test" questions:
Check their license status and look for online reviews on neutral platforms. Look for mentions of their —that’s where they truly earn their commission.
The best homes often sell in a weekend. If an agent takes 24 hours to return your first "I’m interested" text, they likely won't be fast enough when it’s time to submit a competitive offer. You need a "sprint" mindset. 4. Interview at Least Three
(Too many means you're a number; too few might mean they lack experience.)
Finding the right realtor is like choosing a partner for a high-stakes road trip—you need someone who knows the map, handles the breakdowns, and actually listens to your music choices. 1. Look for a "Buyer’s Specialist"
"Which blocks in this neighborhood are appreciating fastest?"If they give vague answers, they aren't local enough. 3. Test Their Response Time