How to choose the right real estate agent in 2026

Thinking about buying or selling a home? The real estate market can feel like a jungle, but don't worry — real estate agents are your expert guides. These agents not only have the inside scoop on current market conditions but also bring valuable experience and local knowledge. 

It doesn't matter if you're buying your first home or are an experienced seller; the right real estate agent can help you navigate the complexities of moving, avoid common mistakes, and make informed decisions every step of the way. Finding the right agent for you is key to making the process smooth and stress-free, so knowing what to look for is important.

Realtors vs. real estate agents

You must be a licensed real estate agent to be a Realtor and to use the Realtor logo in marketing materials. An agent must agree to abide by a specific code of ethics and be a National Association of Realtors (NAR) member . Realtors must also pay dues, take specific continuing education classes, and follow certain industry practices.

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"We often use these terms interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps clients to buy, sell, or rent properties," said Michael Bernadyn, with Howard Schaffer & Associates of RE/MAX Real Estate and the 2025 president of Pennsylvania's Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors . "They must pass a state licensing exam to earn their license and adhere to state laws and regulations. Real estate agents can specialize in residential, commercial or industrial properties."

You may also see the terms "seller's agent" and "buyer's agent" used to refer to the professional helping someone buy or sell a home.

Seller's agent

A property-marketing guru to help you price your home competitively, showcase it to potential buyers and negotiate on your behalf to maximize your sale.

Buyer's agent

A personal champion to help find your dream home, guide you through competitive offers and negotiate the best price with sellers.

Some agents might represent both sides in a deal, which is known as dual agency. If the buyer and seller agree in writing, one agent may represent both parties. "When we first meet with a consumer, we discuss the ' Consumer Notice ,'" said Bernadyn. "This document explains agency in Pennsylvania and breaks down buyer's agent, seller's agent, and dual agency." 

Bernadyn says he finds it difficult to represent both the buyer and seller because when you sign a listing contract with a seller, your first duty and obligation is to represent their best interests.

Each party's agent should focus solely on their needs and help them navigate the market confidently. For more specifics on the differences between real estate agents and Realtors, read our related guide .

Everything you need to know about seller's agents

A seller's agent becomes your staunchest ally throughout the selling process, smoothing over the challenges you might encounter, like getting your property ready to sell. Your agent will suggest repairs necessary for passing inspection, advise you on how to declutter before a move and stage your space to make it more appealing to buyers. Both condos and homes can require repairs, although condos may need less exterior maintenance since a homeowner's association (HOA) often handles common areas.

Pricing strategy matters

A top-notch seller's agent can help you navigate the real estate world, streamline the process, and get the best price for your home. Most sellers agree that working with an agent makes good sense. Real estate agents helped 91% of sellers in 2025, according to NAR .

Setting a competitive price can also pose a conundrum. Depending on market conditions, sellers can grapple with unrealistic offers or a lack of interest. Your real estate agent should complete a comparative market analysis (CMA) to ensure the right price. They'll also handle professional photography and marketing, leveraging their network to get your property in front of the right buyers.

Local expertise makes a difference

You'll benefit from working with a local real estate agent because they understand your area, whether urban, suburban or rural. They can advise you on the pros and cons of each market and help you adjust your strategy accordingly. Selling a condo or apartment? Your agent should be familiar with recent sales in your neighborhood or building and any HOA regulations that could impact buyer interest.

How to choose the right real estate agent

If you don't already know the real estate agent or they've been referred, it's a good idea to set up an initial consultation, according to Lori Campbell, president of the Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors and associate broker for Coldwell Banker Heritage Real Estate. "Compatibility is important," Campbell says. "Clients should trust their agent and feel comfortable with whom they are working."

Sellers should ask agents about their marketing strategies and how they plan to attract potential buyers to their property, Campbell says. Asking about their negotiation experience and history in the market can be wise, too. "Strong negotiation skills are important to both buyers and sellers," according to Campbell. "Experience is important too."

When it came time for Gretchen Maysek, a retired educator, and her husband to sell their Allentown, Pa., home, they found the perfect realtor for their goals. "As our neighbor, she knew the pluses of the community and could pitch our home to potential buyers. She wasn't pushy or aggressive with us," Maysek said.

Maysek said their realtor laid everything out and gave them plenty of choices. She was also aware of her husband Raymond's hearing loss and made certain to include him by using texts instead of voice, writing down offers, and clarifying questions. 

"She's a teacher by day and knew what she had to do to be totally inclusive," Maysek said.

Questions to ask the seller's agents before you hire them

Depending on where you live, many agents are likely available to you, and you want to find the right one for your needs. These questions can help do so.

What do the comps look like in my neighborhood?

A savvy agent will provide a CMA showcasing similar homes recently sold to help you set expectations and calculate a realistic selling price. If they can't answer this key question, that's a red flag.

How much do you think my home is worth? Why?

Be wary of agents who inflate the price, hoping to get your business. Choose someone who uses data and market knowledge — and explains their reasoning — to justify their valuation. You'll need to have a rough idea of the value before you ask a realtor about it, and you shouldn't get distracted by an unrealistically high answer.

What improvements do you recommend to prepare my home for sale?

Listen for specific suggestions and their potential return on investment (ROI). Condos are usually smaller than homes ( they average 900 to 1,200 square feet ), so your potential agent might suggest decluttering and staging it to emphasize its spaciousness. Ideally, your agent can provide ideas you haven't already considered.

How will you showcase my home for maximum exposure?

Agents use a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a system where realtors share information about their listed properties with each other and real estate websites like Zillow. You should dig deeper and ask the agent about virtual tours, professional photography, open houses, and any unique marketing strategies they use.

Everything you need to know about buyer's agents

Navigating the current real estate market is challenging, but a stellar buyer's agent can help you find your dream home, condo or apartment.

Challenges home buyers are up against

Buyers face different challenges when they're in the market for a new home: saving for a down payment, qualifying for a mortgage, and understanding the true costs of ownership beyond the purchase price. Competition can be fierce, but a recent update from Realtor.com suggests the supply of available homes is still increasing. According to the report, home listings in November 2025 were up 12.6% year-over-year and inventory has climbed for the 25th straight month, showing that more homes are available now than at the same time last year.

Why a buyer's agent is a smart investment

Finding a good buyer's agent to help you navigate the home-buying process saves you time, stress, and potentially money by helping you find the right property at the right price. A real estate agent helps guide you through the pre-approval process to understand your budget and put you in a stronger negotiating position. They may also connect with lenders offering competitive rates or at least be well-informed about average rates.

How a buyer's agent can help support you along the way

They'll help you craft competitive offers, guide you through the negotiating process, and advocate for your best interests to secure the property you want. Buyer's agents explain potential ongoing costs like property taxes, HOA dues for condos, and maintenance expenses. Your agent will also handle the many documents involved in the buying process and ensure everything is completed accurately and submitted on time.

Finding the right fit for your needs

Buyer's agents' most important roles? Taking the time to understand your needs and preferences and searching for properties that tick all your boxes. You'll benefit from their local market knowledge because they can point out hidden gems or warn you about potential drawbacks in certain areas.

Buying a home virtually

Maysek says she found a helpful buyer's agent by replying to an online advertisement for a "55 and older homes" community.

"One lady regularly responded to us and showed us potential properties virtually for over three years," Maysek said. She and her husband shared details about the area they wanted to live in and their property requirements, such as one-floor living, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, an attached garage, room for a workshop, and storage space. The process was entirely online, and she started house shopping in 2019 and eventually found the home they wanted in 2022.

"We finally saw a home we really liked, put in a bid, and got the house. We finally met our agent when we went to the settlement. We literally bought a house over the internet," Maysek said.

Lessons learned from a first-time buyer

Another home buyer, Janette Castro, had a rougher experience because she didn't understand exactly what should be expected of a buyer's agent. 

"Our first house was gutted and had to be renovated by the former owners before we could move in and close," Castro said. "As a first-time home buyer, I was incredibly naive and didn't realize I should have gotten potential or perspective updates we wanted in writing."

Castro didn't understand that her buyer's agent was supposed to be an advocate. "When we moved in, there was no insulation, and the house shook when it was windy," she said. "I learned quickly that if we ever needed something like that again, I had to get it in writing. The realtor we worked with for this purchase was not helpful and didn't protect our interests at all."

Castro also said her family outgrew the home quickly. When it was time to move again, she and her husband found a different agent, using her experience to find a better one. "The agent we sold that house with is great," Castro said, "and we are using her again. This agent knows her stuff and is protecting our interests."

How to choose the right buyer's agent

First-time home buyers like Castro need their agents to advocate for them, but choosing the right partner isn't always easy. "In addition to an in-person consultation, look at online reviews of the agent's past performance and overall reputation," said Campbell. "To ensure a match between buyers and their desired property, buyers must ensure they're working with someone who knows the community where they want to live."

Questions to ask buyer's agents before you hire them

With so many buyer's agents, how do you choose the right one? Here are some questions to ask in your interviews.

What challenges should I expect as a buyer right now?

A great agent will give you a straight scoop on how many homes are listed in your price range and how much competition you'll face. Look for specifics in their answers.

What's your approach to helping me find homes aligned with my needs and budget?

Again, ask for specific examples. Have they recently helped other clients similar to you? What sacrifices might you need to make to find your budget's sweet spot? The agent's responses will show you how well they understand your situation.

How will you guide me through making competitive offers and negotiating with sellers?

Your agent should be a skilled negotiator who advocates for you, ensuring you stay within your budget while getting the best possible deal. Ask for a recent experience in which they helped another buyer land a home at a great price.

The right real estate agent makes a world of difference

Whether buying or selling a home, a real estate agent should be your trusted advisor throughout the process. A buyer's agent works for you, helping find properties, negotiating offers and guiding you through inspections and paperwork. A seller's agent focuses on marketing your home, pricing it competitively and negotiating with buyers. 

Don't be afraid to interview multiple agents, ask questions and request recommendations from friends and family to find the perfect fit for your goals. Not all agents are created equally, so if you can, take the time to meet with multiple agents. The right agent makes all the difference between a stress-free or an anxious and overwhelming experience.

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