How to Find a Real Estate Agent

Buying or selling a home is about trust, timing, and having the right person to help you navigate the process. Whether you're preparing to list your property or starting the search for your next one, choosing the right real estate agent can shape your entire experience. But in a market full of options, knowing how to find a real estate agent who aligns with your goals takes more than just a quick online search.

If you’re unsure where to begin or want to feel confident in your decision from the start, the following guide breaks down the key factors to consider when choosing a real estate agent and how to know when you've found the right fit.

Before reaching out to anyone, take some time to clarify your needs. Are you selling a high-end property and want someone with deep local expertise? Are you relocating and need help beyond the transaction, like neighborhood guidance and school information? Are you a first-time buyer looking for extra education along the way?

Understanding what matters most to you—price, speed, experience, or communication style—will help guide your search and filter the field. Real estate agents often have specializations, whether it’s luxury homes, investment properties, or helping buyers relocate from out of state. When you know what you're looking for, you’re more likely to find someone whose strengths match your expectations.

One of the most reliable ways to start your search is to ask for referrals from friends, colleagues, or family members who’ve recently gone through a real estate transaction. If someone you trust had a great experience, it’s worth looking into that agent.

But don’t stop there. Visit agent websites, read client testimonials, and check online reviews. Look for consistency in feedback: Are past clients praising the agent’s negotiation skills? Their responsiveness? Their knowledge of the local market? These details matter.

Also, make sure the agent is active in the area where you’re buying or selling. Market familiarity is a major asset. Someone with in-depth knowledge of your neighborhood or community will be better equipped to price a property correctly, navigate local trends, and connect you with off-market opportunities if needed.

It’s easy to assume that all real estate agents operate the same way, but personalities and strategies can vary significantly. That’s why it’s worth speaking with more than one agent before deciding who to work with.

Set up informal interviews, whether in person or over the phone, and come prepared with a list of questions. Ask about their recent transactions in your area, how they prefer to communicate, what kind of support team they work with, and their overall approach to negotiation.

Don’t be afraid to go with your gut, either. If someone sounds great on paper but doesn’t seem to listen or answer your questions directly, that’s a red flag. Communication and trust are key, so you want someone who listens carefully, responds quickly, and respects your priorities.

If you’re selling, ask each agent how they plan to market your home. Do they use professional photography, virtual tours, targeted online ads, or staging consultations? The way a property is presented can greatly influence how quickly and for how much it sells.

If you're buying, ask how the agent finds listings and whether they can access off-market properties. A well-connected agent can often open doors that others can’t.

You’ll also want to know how aggressive or measured they are in negotiation. If you’re buying in a competitive market, an agent who understands bidding strategy can give you a real advantage. If you’re selling a unique or high-value home, the way offers are handled can significantly impact your bottom line.

When you're narrowing down options for how to find a real estate agent, proximity and familiarity matter. A local expert is more likely to understand neighborhood trends and pertinent info, from zoning rules and architectural styles to micro-trends in pricing and buyer behavior. In Beverly Hills, for instance, market dynamics can vary block by block. An agent who knows the area inside and out can make or break a deal.

Local agents are also better equipped to recommend inspectors, contractors, lenders, and other professionals who can help streamline the entire process.

A seasoned real estate agent has a strong professional network. That includes relationships with other agents, which can mean early access to new listings, smoother negotiations, or a higher chance of closing the deal on your terms.

Agents with a solid reputation are often easier to work with on both sides of a transaction. Other agents want to collaborate with them, and that mutual respect can help you get offers accepted or navigate delicate counter-offers more effectively.

Ask potential agents about their professional affiliations, how long they’ve been in the business, and what kind of transactions they typically handle. An experienced agent who’s well-respected in their market can bring both peace of mind and added value to your buying or selling experience.

Communication can make or break your experience with a real estate agent. Do they respond promptly? Are they clear, concise, and thorough? Do they ask good questions, and, more importantly, do they listen to your answers?

Whether you prefer email, texts, or phone calls, your agent should be comfortable adapting to your preferences and keeping you updated regularly. If you're juggling a busy schedule or working across time zones, consistency in communication can reduce a lot of unnecessary stress.

Navigating the real estate market in Beverly Hills requires insight, timing, and working with someone who truly understands the rhythm of this world-renowned market. Jordan Pollack brings experience, local expertise, and a personalized approach to every client relationship. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating from across the country, or selling a property with unique features, Jordan’s calm confidence and strategic thinking make a measurable difference. When you’re ready to take your next step in Beverly Hills real estate, connect with Jordan Pollack.

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