How Do You Choose the Right Real Estate Agent?

By Deanna Mendes, elevated & co. realty

The short answer: Choose a real estate agent by interviewing at least three candidates, asking for recent sales data in your neighbourhood, reviewing a written marketing plan, and checking references by phone. The best hire is usually the one with the strongest track record in your exact sub-market and price range — not the one you happen to know personally.

Your home is likely your largest asset. Most people still hire their agent the way they choose a restaurant — based on familiarity, convenience, or a casual referral.

That usually leads to the wrong decision. The better approach is to hire your real estate agent the way you would hire a CFO: with structure, evidence, and real comparison.

This guide gives you a clear framework for how to vet an agent properly before you sign anything.

What’s the Best Way to Choose a Real Estate Agent?

The best way to choose a real estate agent is to interview three candidates, compare their pricing analysis and marketing plans side by side, verify their track record in your specific neighbourhood, and check at least three references by phone.

Skip the default “someone I know” path. Social referrals are one of the most common reasons sellers end up with the wrong hire.

Reality check: For a high-value home, the difference between the strongest candidate and the most socially convenient one can be tens of thousands of dollars in final outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many real estate agents should I interview before choosing one to sell my home?
Three is usually the right number. One consultation gives you very little context, while three makes it easier to compare pricing strategies, marketing plans, communication styles, and experience. Most sellers see clearer differences once they compare agents side by side.

What questions should I ask when interviewing a real estate agent in Burlington or Hamilton?
Ask about recent sales in Burlington or Hamilton, pricing strategy, marketing plans, negotiation experience, and communication expectations. Request examples of recent listings and ask what they would do if your home did not receive an offer within the first few weeks. Strong agents should be able to answer with specific examples, not general promises.

How do I know if I've chosen the right real estate agent?
The right agent should be able to explain their pricing logic, provide a written marketing strategy, and show recent results in a similar market and price range. Their communication process should be clear, and their recommendations should be supported by evidence rather than opinions. A good decision usually feels informed and confident, not rushed.