Buying or selling a home is a big deal—exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of big decisions. You want someone who gets you, fights for your best interests, and won’t disappear when things get real. The right real estate agent can make all the difference between a smooth transaction and a story you tell with a deep sigh. So how do you find the one? Here’s what to look for.
They Speak Fluent “You”
A great agent doesn’t just nod along—they listen. Your must-haves, dealbreakers, and “Wouldn’t it be nice if…” wishes should actually shape the plan, not get lost in the shuffle. Whether you dream of a backyard oasis or just need a kitchen big enough to host one holiday dinner without elbowing relatives, the right agent makes sure you’re house-hunting (or listing) with your goals in mind.
They Know the Market Like a Seasoned Local
Real estate isn’t just about cute houses—it’s about strategy. A top-tier agent knows what’s happening in your local market, what buyers are looking for, and how to price a home so it doesn’t sit there gathering dust. They’ll give it to you straight, with insights based on actual data, not just a “gut feeling.”
Here’s what a well-informed agent should have in their back pocket:
- Recent Sales Data – What homes are actually selling for (not just listing prices).
- Neighbourhood Trends – Are prices rising, holding steady, or cooling off?
- Buyer Preferences – What features and upgrades are making homes fly off the market?
- Local Hotspots – Schools, parks, restaurants, and those hidden gems that make a neighbourhood shine.
- Future Developments – New businesses, road expansions, or zoning changes that could impact home values.
- Market Timing – The best seasons, months, or even weeks to buy or sell for the most impact.
They Have the Right Connections (No Secret Handshakes Required)
A well-connected agent doesn’t just make things easier—they make them better. The right referrals can save you time, money, and headaches. Need a stellar home inspector who won’t miss a thing? They’ve got one. A mortgage broker who can help you navigate rates without the confusion? Done. A contractor who actually shows up when they say they will? Consider it handled.
And let’s be honest, moving can be chaos. Between sorting, packing, and wondering how you accumulated so much stuff, it’s enough to make anyone consider just walking away and starting fresh. That’s why Simply Organized Services offers up to 10% off packing and organizing with the code KIMALLDREAD. Because no one wants to be the person shoving random junk into a box the night before closing—especially when “random junk” turns out to be your important documents and the TV remote.
They Text Back (And Not Just “K”)
Buying or selling a home moves fast, and your agent should too. Clear, timely communication can mean the difference between landing your dream home or missing out. You need someone who provides clear answers, keeps you updated, and doesn’t leave you guessing.
Here’s what solid communication looks like:
- Quick responses (because “seen” with no reply is the worst).
- Updates before you even have to ask.
- Clear explanations—no real estate jargon that makes you Google every other word.
- A willingness to pick up the phone when things get complicated.
The Bottom Line
Finding the right agent isn’t just about experience—it’s about working with someone who understands your goals, keeps things on track, and makes the process feel less like an extreme sport. The right agent brings knowledge, strategy, and just the right amount of hand-holding when things get overwhelming. And let’s be real—moving is always a bit chaotic, but with the right help (and maybe a well-timed discount), you might just get through it without stress-eating an entire pizza… or two.
Until next time,
Kim