Hiring the wrong Realtor can be costly and create unnecessary stress. A quick scroll through Reddit or Facebook reveals countless stories of agents prioritizing their commissions over their clients, pressuring them into decisions that are financially and emotionally overwhelming. Real estate transactions are complex, and you need a skilled expert who will guide you through every step, advocate for your best interests, and help you make informed choices. Here’s how to find a Realtor who adds value to your transaction while minimizing stress and uncertainty.
Don’t Click ‘Contact me’ on Realtor.ca
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is clicking the “Contact” button on a listing. This often connects you with an agent who is representing the seller’s interests, not yours. Instead, take the time to research several agents and interview a few agents to find the right fit.
Where to Start Your Search
- Ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations.
- Visit open houses and observe how agents interact with potential buyers.
- Check online reviews, but take them with a grain of salt—some agents buy reviews, Google Reviews are a good trusted resource for truthful, qualified reviews.
- Ask agents for past client references and actually reach out to those clients.
Essential Questions to Ask When Interviewing Agents
A great agent should be completely transparent, experienced, and committed to representing your best interests. Here are some key questions to ask:
1. How do you get paid?
If an agent simply says, “Don’t worry about it, the seller pays,” that’s a red flag. A good agent will walk you through the Designated Buyer and RECO Guide to explain the process and commission breakdown.
2. Can I terminate our agreement if needed?
Ask for a short-term agreement for approximately 3 months so that you have time to find a property but do not feel obligated if things drag on and do not vibe the way you were hoping. Ask if there is a way to cancel if it just isn’t working out.
3. How do you communicate?
Clarify how you’ll stay in touch. Do you prefer WhatsApp, calls, texts, or emails? Set expectations for response times.
4. When are you away and who is helping me when you are gone?
Set expectations for your search and timing to purchase, if you agree to another representative helping make sure you interview them also. You may love the primary Realtor and not see them again until the closing day. Know who you are actually working with.
5. What is your personal experience?
Don’t just ask how many homes they’ve sold—ask how many transactions they personally handled rather than their brokerage or team. Find out the dirt on some of the tricky deals and how they solved the problems.
6. What is your approach to making offers and negotiating?
This should lead to a discussion about offer strategy, current market conditions, and negotiation style. Be wary of agents who claim to be “bulldog” negotiators—aggression isn’t always the best approach in real estate. I personally catch more flies with honey.
7. Can you walk me through the entire process?
An excellent agent should be able to outline the entire buying or selling process and ideally provide a document summarizing it.
8. What sets you apart from other agents?
If they say “honesty and integrity,” that’s a baseline expectation, not a differentiator. Look for someone who emphasizes their commitment to your best interests above all else.
9. What is your reputation among other agents?
You want an agent who is respected by their peers. Being universally liked can mean they avoid tough negotiations, while being respected suggests they advocate effectively for their clients. Local agents that have good relationships with other local agents will have more influence and respect during the offer process and can be a huge asset in a multiple offer situation.
10. Who do you recommend for lenders, inspectors, and other services?
Many brokerages and agents have financial agreements with secondary service providers. Make sure any recommendations are based on quality, not just financial incentives.
Test Their Knowledge in Action
Instead of just listening to their sales pitch, ask them to demonstrate their expertise. Questions like:
- “I’m interested in [specific neighbourhood]. What common issues should I be aware of?”
- “How do I spot signs of flooding or foundation issues?”
- “How has the market changed in the last year, and how does that impact my buying strategy?”
- “What are some red flags you look for in homes?”
A knowledgeable agent should be able to provide thoughtful, detailed answers rather than vague reassurances.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, so take the time to find an agent who is truly on your side—someone transparent, experienced, and unafraid to answer tough questions. Remember, you’re in charge, and you deserve the best representation possible. If that happens to be me, I’ll not only guide you through the process with expertise but also make it a little fun along the way. After all, house hunting comes with its share of surprises—like a collection of silver spoons proudly displayed in the bathroom above the shag carpet or a quilt honouring four dearly departed cats. Buying a home is a serious endeavor, the right agent will ease the stress, provide valuable insight, and will laugh with you once in a while.