How Do You Actually Choose a Realtor?

Have you ever been in one of those local Facebook groups where someone asks for a Realtor recommendation?

Within 30 seconds there are 30 names.
Within 30 minutes there are 300 names.
And every single agent is “hands down the best.”

I always wonder… how is that person supposed to choose?

When you are making a decision as big as buying or selling a home, it feels strange to base it on a long list of names from people you do not know. You have no idea what their experience was like, what they value, or whether their priorities would match yours. You do not know what type of situation they were in, how complicated their transaction was, or even what they expect out of a Realtor.

And sometimes you do not even know who is asking for the recommendation. Who is “Anonymous 345”? You cannot see their profile. Are they genuinely looking for a Realtor, or is it someone in the industry trying to generate activity and visibility for themselves?

That does not mean those recommendations are wrong. It just means they lack context.

So what is a better way?

One option is to ask on your own personal page. Ask the people you know. Ask your friends and family. When someone you trust shares a recommendation, you understand where it is coming from. You know their personality. You know their standards. Even if you would not always take their advice on everything, at least you know how to interpret it. You have a frame of reference.

Another great option is to ask someone who just bought or sold a home. Chances are, if they had a great experience, they will happily tell you about it. They will tell you what went well, how the agent handled challenges, how communication was, and whether they felt supported through the process. And if they did not have a great experience, that is valuable information too.

You can also visit open houses. This is something most people do not think about. There are agents out there every weekend hosting open houses and doing their job. Go meet them. Ask questions. Observe how they respond. Do they know the market? Are they confident without being pushy? Do they explain things clearly? Do you like their style? Do you feel comfortable talking to them?

You can practically interview an agent without them even realizing it.

Because at the end of the day, this is not about how many times someone’s name appears in a comment thread. It is about whether they have the credentials and are the right personality and fit for you.

However you choose your agent, take the time to make a thoughtful decision. Ask questions. Have conversations. Find someone who feels like the right fit. Buying or selling a home will be one of the greatest financial decisions of your life, and that deserves careful consideration.

P.S. To my friends, family, and past clients who have recommend my name in those groups, thank you. It truly means more than you know.

What to Ask a Realtor Before Hiring One