5 Tips for Finding the Best Real Estate Agent

5 tips for finding the best real estate agent when you're buying a home

Finding the best real estate agent can make a huge difference in the homebuying process. Simon Potter/Getty Images

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• To find a good real estate agent, talk to friends and family or go to your bank or credit union.
• Check whether the agent is a Realtor who's a member of the National Association of REALTORS®.
• Interview a few candidates and ask your favorites who to contact for references.

The right real estate agent can help you find the best home for your family within your budget. They can also help you move quickly in a competitive real estate market.

You want a real estate agent that's an experienced professional. It also helps to work with someone who is a good fit for you specifically. For example, you'll probably want to hire an agent whose schedule aligns with yours.

How to find a real estate agent

Here are some tips for finding the best real estate agent for your needs.

1. Ask family and friends

Has anyone you know bought a house recently? Ask which real estate agent they used and whether they had a good experience.

You can read about an agent online, but talking to someone you trust can give you a better sense about whether you'll have a good experience with an agent.

2. Go to your bank or credit union

Carolyn Morganbesser, Senior Manager of Mortgage Originations at Affinity Federal Credit Union, told Insider that buyers can ask their bank or credit union for help finding a real estate agent. This is especially useful if your bank or credit union is also your mortgage lender.

Many have programs that set customers up with qualified real estate agents. The banking institution and agent communicate so the agent can understand your full financial situation and help you make the most practical decision.

"The worst mistake, in my opinion, is working to keep your house," Morganbesser said. "There's no room for the movies or to go out to dinner, because your mortgage payment is higher than you anticipated."

When your banking institution and real estate agent work together to find a home within your means, you can avoid buying a home that will ultimately cost too much.

3. Consider a Realtor, not just a real estate agent

As you search for real estate agents, look for candidates who are Realtors. (Look for that capital R.)

Not all real estate agents are Realtors. Both real estate agents and Realtors are certified, but Realtors are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). This means they have to abide by a strict code of ethics, and they may even have additional certifications.

Working with a Realtor may give you peace of mind that you can trust them, and that they're abundantly qualified.

4. Interview a few candidates

Once you've narrowed down your list, set up interviews with three or four real estate agents. Ask them about their experience selling in your local market and what their availability is. Prepare a list of questions to ask each candidate so you can easily compare them.

Interviewing agents will give you more information, but it could also give you a gut instinct about who is the best fit.

5. Request references

Even if a friend or family member has recommended a real estate agent, you may want to get a couple more references.

Ask the agent who you can reach out to for a reference. They may provide you with a list of people they've recently sold homes to, along with contact information. Write down a few questions, then call or email some buyers.

A real estate agent is one of your most useful tools in buying a home. Make sure you find someone who is the right fit.