How to Choose the Best Real Estate Agent for a Smooth Move

Smiling child holding a moving box while a family moves into a new home, representing a smooth real estate transaction.

Buying or selling a home is one of life’s biggest decisions. Finding the right real estate agent can make the process smooth and even enjoyable, while the wrong one might leave you frustrated and overwhelmed. The right agent makes it feel smooth and manageable, but the wrong one can leave you stressed and uncertain. So how can you tell if an agent truly understands what matters most to you?

Discover how to identify a real estate agent who puts your goals first, ensuring every step of the process is tailored to your unique needs.

Red Flags: When an Agent Is Transaction-Focused

How do you know if your agent is working for you—or just chasing their next deal? Instead of discussing your dream home or goals, they might focus on their sales stats or push for quick decisions. This approach can leave you feeling like just another transaction.

Here are some red flags to watch for:

  • They focus more on appearances than relationships. Social media posts showcasing luxury cars and sales milestones might signal success, but if there’s little emphasis on client success stories or relationships, it’s a warning sign.
  • They dominate the conversation. If an agent talks more about themselves—their awards, achievements, or success—than about your needs, they may lack the empathy required to prioritize you.
  • They rely on high-pressure tactics. Statements like “You need to act fast” or “This is your only chance” can indicate they’re more interested in closing the deal quickly than helping you make informed decisions.
  • Their branding focuses on numbers, not care. Messaging like “#1 in Sales” or “Top Producer” isn’t inherently bad, but if there’s no mention of client care or connection, it could signal misplaced priorities.
  • They avoid sharing client success stories. Great agents can easily share examples of times they’ve gone above and beyond for their clients. If they can’t, they may not be as client-focused as you need.

Qualities of a Client-Focused Real Estate Agent

Picture yourself working with an agent who genuinely listens, asking questions like, “What excites you most about this move, and what’s your biggest concern?” They listen carefully, reflect back your priorities, and build a partnership based on trust and understanding.

Here’s how to recognize an agent who truly understands your needs:

  • They build trust from the start. A client-focused agent takes time to ask meaningful questions, listens deeply, and reflects back what they’ve heard to ensure they fully understand your priorities.
  • They validate your concerns and goals. Empathy goes a long way. Agents who acknowledge your concerns and explain how they’ll address them show they care about more than just the transaction.
  • They adapt their strategy to fit your needs. Whether it’s accommodating a tight timeline, finding homes with specific features, or staying within budget, great agents tailor their approach to align with your unique goals.

Key Questions to Ask When Choosing an Agent

Ask the right questions to uncover whether an agent is focused on your success or just their next deal:

  • “What’s the most important thing I should know about how you work with clients?” This question reveals their core values and whether they align with your priorities.
  • “Can you share an example of a time when you helped a client overcome a tough situation? What did you do to support them?” This invites storytelling and shows their problem-solving skills and commitment to clients.
  • “How do you ensure your clients feel confident and informed every step of the way?” This focuses on trust and communication, which are key for a smooth and successful process.

Your Path to Confidence with the Right Agent

Buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming, but the right agent turns that stress into confidence. Imagine you’re juggling questions about timing and options, unsure of where to start, and your agent steps in with tailored solutions. They keep you informed and supported every step of the way, so by the end, you’re not just relieved—you’re excited.

Great agents don’t just close deals…they make sure you feel understood and in control. They explain the process clearly and prioritize your goals from start to finish.

Find Your Guide

Don’t settle for feeling like just another transaction. Choose an agent who listens, understands, and prioritizes your goals. With Worthington Realty, you’ll have a trusted partner who simplifies the process, anticipates your needs, and ensures every step aligns with your vision. Contact Worthington Realty today to experience the difference a client-first approach makes and turn your next move into a confident, seamless transition.

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Michael Davis, co-owner of Worthington Realty, smiling in a professional headshot outdoors with a blurred background of trees and sky.

About the Author

Michael Davis is one of the owners of Worthington Realty and a Gallup®-Certified Strengths Coach who helps agents build businesses that fit them—without blending in. With a background in commercial real estate, where he co-founded a firm that grew to $1.3 billion in assets, Michael realized that success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about clarity, trust, and owning what makes you different.

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