Step 21 of 48 Phase 3: House Hunt in Earnest
3.4 Find a Great Agent
A skilled buyer's agent is your advocate, negotiator, and guide through the home buying process. Take time to find someone who understands your needs and communicates well.
Interview Questions for Agents
- How long have you been working as a buyer's agent in this area?
- How many buyers have you helped in the past year?
- What is your communication style and availability?
- Can you provide references from recent clients?
- How do you handle multiple offer situations?
- What happens if we want to see a home listed by your brokerage?
Agent Types Comparison
| Type | Who They Represent | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Buyer's Agent | You (the buyer) | Best advocacy, owes you fiduciary duty |
| Seller's Agent | The seller | Cannot advocate for you |
| Dual Agent | Both parties | Legal in some states, limited advocacy |
| Transaction Broker | Neither party | Facilitates deal, neutral |
Pro Tips
- Check online reviews but also ask for direct references
- Verify their license on your state's real estate commission website
- Understand how commission works - typically paid by seller
- Meet with 2-3 agents before deciding
- Trust your gut - you will spend a lot of time with this person
- Ask about their experience in your target neighborhoods