How Do You Know If You’re Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent?

Do you actually know if you are choosing the right real estate agent for your move? We get asked this all the time. The truth is that who you choose matters because not all agents work the same way.

To make sure you are well informed and supported, I have put together seven questions you should feel totally comfortable asking before you hire anyone.

1. Do you really know this specific area? You need to know if they have actually sold homes in your neighborhood. Every neighborhood is different, and you need an expert who knows what is selling, what is not, and how long it takes to close the deal.

This includes understanding pricing, demand, and which homes are getting multiple offers. That knowledge comes from experience in the local market, not just from pulling numbers online.

2. What is your strategy? Whether you are buying or selling, there should be a clear plan. It should not just be “we will list it” or “we will look around.” Ask for a strategy that can adjust if the market shifts.

You want to know exactly how they approach pricing and negotiating when things change. A good agent should be able to explain how they adapt their strategy based on what’s happening right now. If they can’t clearly walk you through the plan, that’s a red flag.

3. How will you market my home to sell it? Today, marketing is more than putting a home online. You want to know exactly how your home will be positioned to attract serious buyers.

You should ask about professional photos, video, social media, and networking. For buyers, the strategy should include finding opportunities that others might miss, watching the market daily, and being connected enough to hear about homes before they hit the market.

4. How are you going to communicate with me? This matters more than people realize. The biggest complaint sellers have is a lack of communication. You should ask your agent how often you will hear from them. Will it be by text, phone call, or email? You should never feel like you are wondering what is going on with your house.

5. Have you helped someone in my situation before? Every move is different. First-time buyers have different needs than someone downsizing or a person relocating from out of state.

Experience shows when challenges pop up. You need someone who has handled your specific type of situation before and knows how to respond calmly and clearly.

6. Who else will I be working with? Many agents work with a team. It’s important to understand who is involved and who you’ll be communicating with if your main agent isn’t available at that moment.

Will there be a transaction coordinator, a showing partner, or a listing manager? Knowing the structure helps you understand the level of support you’ll receive.

7. What does this process look like from start to finish? Many people have bought a home before, but have never sold one in Arizona. We also see many people relocating here from other states.

Your agent should be able to explain each step clearly, from listing to contract to inspection to closing. Or from pre-approval to offer to keys in hand.

When someone can walk you through the full process clearly, you feel more confident and more in control. At the end of the day, you should feel well-informed, comfortable, and supported.

Choosing the right agent isn’t about picking the first name you see online. It’s about asking smart questions and making sure the person representing you has the experience, strategy, and communication style that fits your needs.

If you ever want to ask us any of these questions, reach out to us at (602) 571-3730 or AHGadmin@gmail.com. We’re always happy to help.