{"id":69646,"date":"2025-07-07T05:51:45","date_gmt":"2025-07-07T12:51:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=69646"},"modified":"2025-07-07T08:44:59","modified_gmt":"2025-07-07T15:44:59","slug":"how-to-choose-a-real-estate-agent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-a-real-estate-agent\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent in 10 Steps"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the right real estate agent can make or break your buying or selling experience. If you\u2019re buying, a skilled agent can help you find the right home at the right price, negotiate effectively, and guide you through a smooth closing process. If you\u2019re selling, the right agent can help you market your property strategically and attract qualified buyers. Whether you\u2019re moving from your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/30749\/NY\/New-York\/apartments-for-rent\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NYC apartment<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to your first home or listing your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/781\/AK\/Anchorage\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home in Anchorage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for top dollar\u2014choosing the right real estate agent is key.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide breaks down what to look for, what to ask, and what to avoid\u2014so you can hire a real estate agent who truly has your back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-103128\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829.jpg\" alt=\"finding a real estate agent\" width=\"1200\" height=\"852\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829-300x213.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829-1024x727.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829-768x545.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829-211x150.jpg 211w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829-887x630.jpg 887w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2462622829-423x300.jpg 423w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Understand what a real estate agent does<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Real estate agents guide you through buying or selling a home, handling pricing, negotiations, paperwork, and closing. Here\u2019s a quick breakdown of their roles:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/listing-agent-vs-sellers-agent\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">buyer\u2019s agent<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> represents your interests when purchasing a home.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A seller\u2019s agent (or listing agent) markets your property and negotiates the sale.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some states allow <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-dual-agency\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dual agency<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where one agent represents both buyer and seller.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How a real estate agent supports you when buying a home<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Helps you make competitive offers:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A good agent will confirm your budget and guide you in making strong, competitive offers while negotiating with sellers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Explains market conditions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> They\u2019ll help you understand if it\u2019s a buyer\u2019s or seller\u2019s market and what to expect with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/how-to-make-an-offer-on-a-house\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">offers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, bidding wars, and timelines.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Finds the right home within your budget:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Your agent will align your price range with your priorities, helping you focus on homes that fit your needs, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/how-much-house-can-i-afford\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">affordability<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, lifestyle.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How a real estate agent supports you when selling your home<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Recommends home improvements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A knowledgeable agent will suggest <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-increase-home-value-on-a-budget\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home improvement<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> updates to help your home stand out in the market.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Provides a clear home valuation:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> They will give you a realistic idea of your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/what-is-my-home-worth\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home\u2019s worth<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and explain how it <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-find-real-estate-comps-in-my-area\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">compares to similar properties<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in your area.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shares a market analysis:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Your agent will provide <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-find-real-estate-comps-in-my-area\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">comps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and local data to help you price your home effectively and attract buyers.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-103126\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924.jpg\" alt=\"choosing a real estate agent\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_642415924-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Get ready before reaching out to agents<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you start searching for a real estate agent, it helps to prepare so you can find the right match for your needs. First, get <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-pre-approval\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pre-approved for a mortgage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or use a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/mortgage-calculator\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage calculator <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to understand what you can afford, giving your agent a clear starting point for your home search.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Next, if you\u2019re looking to buy a new home, create a list of priorities such as locations, the types of<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-are-the-most-popular-home-styles\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">house styles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and house features you will want to be included with your future property before discussing with your agent. If you have plans to sell your current home, create a list of priorities that will prepare you for getting your home in order before it is put on the market.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Decide what you need in an agent<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about what kind of agent will best support your goals. Consider:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Experience<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in your local market and price range<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Availability<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (full-time vs. part-time)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Communication style<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (quick responses, clear updates)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Specialties<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/first-time-home-buyer-benefits\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">first-time buyers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/interested-in-using-a-va-home-loan-heres-what-you-need-to-know\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VA loans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/best_practices_for_buying_investment_property\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">investment properties<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, relocation)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Research potential agents<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you know what you need, start <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/real-estate-agents\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">researching agents<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to find the right fit. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for referrals, especially if they\u2019ve recently bought or sold in your area. Check online reviews to see what past clients say about their experiences and how the agent communicates and negotiates. You can also review their current listings and sales history to see if they have experience with homes similar to yours, giving you a clearer picture of their expertise in your market.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-103129\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875.jpg\" alt=\"agent helping with home\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2087183875-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Interview multiple agents<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a good idea to meet with at least two or three agents before deciding who to work with. This helps you compare their experience, local knowledge, and communication style to see who feels like the best fit. Prepare a list of questions to ask during these meetings, such as how long they\u2019ve been working in real estate, their approach to marketing or helping buyers find a home, and how often they will update you throughout the process. This step will help you find an agent who understands your goals and will advocate for you during your home buying or selling journey.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Ask the right questions<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/how-to-choose-a-real-estate-agent-top-15-questions\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">questions to ask your potential agents<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/10-questions-to-ask-when-choosing-a-real-estate-agent-to-list-your-home\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">interview process<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to help you choose the best real estate agent to represent you. Learn how to properly interview your agents to get the best home buying or selling experience as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How long have you been working in real estate?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Look for an agent with transaction experience, or if they\u2019re newer, ensure they have close broker support.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How long have you lived in this area?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Local knowledge can be just as valuable as real estate experience when helping you find the right home.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Do you work alone or with a team?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Solo agents can provide excellent service, but <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/working-for-redfin-team-support\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">team support<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can offer backup during vacations or emergencies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>What is your work schedule?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Know their availability for tours and showings, especially if they\u2019re <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/agent-resources\/can-you-be-a-part-time-real-estate-agent\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">part-time<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or traveling soon.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Have you ever had a complaint filed against you?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This helps you gauge professionalism; one complaint isn\u2019t necessarily a deal breaker, but it\u2019s worth noting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>How many transactions do you close in a year?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A steady track record shows they take their business\u2014and your purchase or sale\u2014seriously.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Do you specialize as a buyer\u2019s or seller\u2019s agent?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Some agents prefer listings, while others enjoy helping buyers find the right home.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>What markets do you target?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ensure they know your desired neighborhoods or are willing to research them thoroughly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>What\u2019s the median price in the markets I\u2019m considering?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> They may need to follow up, but a good agent will provide a clear breakdown to guide your search.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-103127\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263.jpg\" alt=\"how to choose a real estate agent\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_2571111263-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Check references and credentials<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before choosing an agent, ask for references from past clients to learn about their experiences and the agent\u2019s communication and negotiation style. Verify that the agent holds an active license in your state and check for any disciplinary actions. You can also look for additional credentials, such as Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or Accredited Buyer\u2019s Representative (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theabr.org\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ABR\u00ae<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which indicate specialized training and a commitment to continued education.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. Watch out for red flags<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you evaluate agents, be cautious of those who pressure you to sign a contract quickly before answering your questions. Notice if they are slow to respond or unclear in their communication, as this can create stress during your transaction. Also, be wary of agents with limited local knowledge or few recent transactions in your area, as this may affect their ability to price, market, and negotiate effectively on your behalf.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9. Understand the agreement before signing<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you commit to working with an agent, take time to read and understand the agreement. Know the type of contract you\u2019re signing, whether it\u2019s exclusive, meaning you work solely with that agent, or non-exclusive, allowing you to work with others. Review the commission structure, contract length, and any cancellation policies so there are no surprises later. Clarify expectations for how often the agent will communicate with you and provide updates throughout the buying or selling process.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10. Trust your instincts<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, trust your instincts when choosing an agent. You should feel comfortable, confident, and respected in your interactions. Look for someone who listens to your concerns, understands your goals, and communicates clearly. A strong working relationship will make the home buying or selling process smoother and less stressful.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bottom line: Finding the right real estate agent<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start by asking friends, family, and colleagues for agent referrals, especially if they\u2019ve recently bought or sold a home. Check online reviews to learn about an agent\u2019s communication and reliability. Choose a few top-rated agents to interview, sharing your budget, concerns, and preferred working style. Your goal is to find a knowledgeable, committed agent you trust to advocate for your needs.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to choose the right real estate agent for buying or selling your home with these clear, practical tips.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":585,"featured_media":103128,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34276],"tags":[3991,4007],"coauthors":[34682],"class_list":["post-69646","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buying-a-home","tag-home-seller-tips","tag-home-buyer-tips"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v28.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent For You | Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to choose the right real estate agent for buying or selling your home with these clear, practical tips.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-a-real-estate-agent\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Choose the Right Real Estate Agent in 10 Steps\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to choose the right real estate agent for buying or selling your home with these clear, practical tips.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-a-real-estate-agent\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; 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