How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent for Your Home

Choosing the right real estate agent can determine whether your home buying or selling experience feels smooth and well-managed—or stressful and overwhelming. A real estate transaction involves serious financial decisions and emotional considerations, making professional guidance essential rather than optional.

According to recent US housing market reports, nearly 91% of home sellers work with a real estate agent, and approximately 88% of buyers rely on agent representation. These numbers highlight a simple truth: the right agent adds value through expertise, strategy, and advocacy.

In this blog by Sankari Realty, we explain why choosing among the Top Real Estate Agents Seattle WA can shape the outcome of your entire transaction—from pricing and negotiations to closing with confidence.

Define Your Goals, Timeline, and Level of Support

Before comparing agents, take time to clarify your specific needs. Your goals will influence the type of representation that works best for you.

Are you selling, buying, or managing both transactions simultaneously? First-time sellers may need detailed guidance, while experienced homeowners may prioritize pricing accuracy and speed. Your timeline also matters—some transactions require urgency, while others allow flexibility to wait for the right opportunity.

Consider the following:

• Whether you are selling only, buying only, or buying and selling at the same time
• Your pricing strategy, financial limits, or relocation plans
• The type and condition of your home (condo, townhome, single-family residence, luxury home, or fixer-upper)
• How much communication and hands-on support you expect from your agent

Having clarity upfront makes it easier to identify an agent whose experience, communication style, and strategy align with your expectations.

Understand Real Estate Roles — Agent, Broker, and REALTOR®

Understanding professional titles helps you choose the right representation and avoid confusion later in the process.

• Real Estate Agent: A state-licensed professional who assists clients in buying or selling homes.
• Real Estate Broker: An agent with additional education and licensing who may manage a brokerage or supervise agents.
• REALTOR®: A licensed agent or broker who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and follows a strict Code of Ethics.

Listing Agent vs Buyer’s Agent

• Listing agents represent sellers by setting pricing strategies, marketing homes on the MLS, coordinating showings, and negotiating offers.
• Buyer’s agents represent buyers by identifying suitable homes, evaluating value, negotiating terms, and protecting the buyer’s interests.

Dual Agency — Why It Matters

Dual agency occurs when one agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. While legal in Washington State with disclosure, it may limit the agent’s ability to fully advocate for either party. Buyers and sellers should understand these trade-offs before agreeing to dual representation.

Where to Find Real Estate Agents You Can Trust

Once you understand your needs, start building a shortlist of qualified agents.

Personal Referrals

Ask friends, family members, colleagues, or neighbors who have recently bought or sold homes. Learn what worked well, what challenges they faced, and whether they would choose the same agent again.

Online Platforms and Directories

Explore Zillow, REALTOR® directories, brokerage websites, and Google Business Profiles. Pay attention to:

• Number and recency of reviews
• Consistency of positive feedback
• How agents respond to questions or negative reviews

Neighborhood Presence

Agents who frequently list or sell homes in your area often have strong local market knowledge. Look for yard signs, open houses, community events, and active neighborhood social media presence.

Narrow Your Shortlist

Aim to interview three to five agents who match your requirements. This keeps the process focused while giving you strong comparison points.

Do Your Research Before the First Call

A little research upfront can prevent misaligned expectations later.

Verify Licensing and Ethics

Confirm the agent’s license status with the Washington State Department of Licensing. Check for any disciplinary actions or complaints.

Review Recent Sales Performance

Evaluate:

• Number of homes sold in the past 12 months
• Average days on market
• Ratio of list price to sold price

These metrics indicate pricing accuracy and negotiation strength.

Assess Current and Past Listings

High-quality listings typically include professional photography, compelling descriptions, floor plans, 3D tours, and video walkthroughs. Strong presentation reflects a strong marketing strategy.

Check Credentials and Specializations

Designations such as CRS®, ABR®, and SRES® demonstrate advanced training. Some agents specialize in relocation, luxury homes, first-time buyers, or downsizing—expertise should match your needs.

Evaluate Local Market Knowledge

Top agents provide insight into school districts, HOA guidelines, commute patterns, market trends, and common property issues specific to the area.

Interview at Least Two to Three Agents

Why Interviews Matter

Many sellers choose the first agent they meet. However, speaking with multiple agents allows you to compare pricing strategies, marketing plans, communication styles, and data-driven insights.

How to Structure the Meeting

For sellers, in-person or video meetings work best so the agent can evaluate the home. Prepare consistent questions for each agent to ensure fair comparisons.

What to Look For

Strong agents explain market data clearly, listen carefully, and provide realistic guidance instead of vague promises or inflated pricing.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Choosing the wrong agent can delay your transaction or affect your final sale price.

Warning signs include:

• Slow or inconsistent communication
• Lack of transparency regarding pricing, strategy, or dual agency
• Unrealistic pricing recommendations without data support
• Minimal marketing efforts beyond MLS posting
• Choosing an agent based only on personal relationships rather than qualifications

Formalize the Relationship Properly

Once you select an agent, clarity and documentation are essential.

Set Expectations

Agree on communication frequency, marketing plans, showing schedules, staging responsibilities, and how feedback will be shared.

Review the Agreement Carefully

Whether signing a listing agreement or buyer representation agreement, review:

• Contract duration
• Commission structure
• Termination terms
• Geographic or exclusivity clauses
  
  

Many terms are negotiable—ask questions before signing.

Define Mutual Responsibilities

Clarify what the agent will handle (marketing, negotiations, paperwork) and what you are responsible for (home preparation, documentation, availability for showings).

Build a True Partnership with Your Agent

The best outcomes come from collaboration.

• Communicate honestly about budgets, must-haves, and timelines
• Stay aligned on pricing and marketing strategy
• Use your agent’s professional network for inspectors, contractors, stagers, attorneys, and movers
• Reassess the relationship if communication, strategy, or performance consistently falls short.

Final Thoughts

The right real estate agent can make a meaningful difference in your buying or selling experience. By defining your goals, doing thorough research, interviewing multiple professionals, and setting clear expectations, you position yourself for a confident and successful transaction.

A skilled agent brings market expertise, pricing insight, and strong negotiation skills to the table. Homeowners in Sammamish, Bothell, Kirkland, and Redmond, WA trust Sankari Realty for clear guidance backed by local market knowledge. For those specifically searching for real estate agents in Redmond WA, Sankari Realty is ready to provide professional, client-focused support.