How to Choose a Real Estate Agent for Buying in 7 Steps

Think of finding a real estate agent as a job interview where you're the one in charge. You're hiring a key player for your team, and it's a role that requires a specific set of skills, experience, and a personality that clicks with yours. To make the right hire, you need to know what to look for and which questions to ask. This isn't about luck; it's about having a clear process. We'll give you a complete roadmap for how to choose a real estate agent for buying, empowering you to vet candidates and confidently select a top-tier professional for the job.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on Hyper-Local Knowledge: Your agent's success in your target neighborhood is more important than their city-wide stats. Choose a professional who can offer specific insights on local market trends, community amenities, and property values right where you want to live.
• Treat Your Search Like a Hiring Process: Don't settle for the first agent you meet. Interview at least three candidates, ask direct questions about their strategy and communication style, and always check their recent client references to ensure they're the right fit for you.
• Prioritize Partnership Over a Sales Pitch: A great agent provides realistic advice, not just promises they can't keep. Look for a transparent partner who makes you feel supported and informed, not rushed or pressured into making a decision.

What Makes a Great Real Estate Agent?

Finding the right real estate agent is about more than just searching for homes; it's about finding a partner for one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. A great agent acts as your guide, advocate, and expert resource all in one. They bring a specific set of skills and qualities to the table that can turn a stressful process into a smooth and successful one. When you start your search, focus on these four key areas to find a professional who truly has your back.

Proven Experience in Your Neighborhood

You wouldn't ask a New York City tour guide for the best spots in Detroit, right? The same logic applies to real estate. You need an agent with a proven track record right here in Metro Detroit. An agent who has spent years working in your desired neighborhoods—whether it's Royal Oak, Ferndale, or Troy—brings invaluable local insight. They understand the subtle market shifts, know the history of the homes, and have relationships with other local agents. This deep-seated experience means they can offer better advice, negotiate more effectively on your behalf, and help you find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle. When you meet our team, you'll find experts dedicated to these communities.

Clear and Consistent Communication

Buying a home involves a lot of moving parts, and you should never feel like you're in the dark. A great agent is a master communicator. They should be responsive to your calls and texts and be able to explain complex contracts or negotiation terms in a way that makes sense to you. The best agents listen more than they talk, taking the time to understand your needs, wants, and concerns. From the very first meeting, their communication style should make you feel comfortable and confident. This open line of communication builds trust and ensures you're always informed and empowered to make the best decisions throughout your home-buying journey.

Deep Knowledge of the Local Market

Beyond just knowing the names of the streets, a top-tier agent has a profound understanding of the local market dynamics. They live and breathe Metro Detroit real estate. This means they can give you the inside scoop on property values, tell you which neighborhoods are appreciating, and provide data-backed advice on making a competitive offer. They know the school districts, the community amenities, and the upcoming developments that could impact your investment. This level of market intelligence is critical when you're ready to buy a home and want to ensure you're making a smart, informed choice that you'll be happy with for years to come.

Strong Credentials and a Solid Network

A great agent is a well-connected professional. Look for someone with strong credentials, proper licensing, and any additional certifications that show a commitment to their craft. But their expertise doesn't stop with their own skills. An experienced agent comes with a trusted network of other professionals who can make your home-buying process seamless. They can recommend reliable mortgage brokers who can get you the best rates, thorough home inspectors who won't miss a thing, and reputable contractors for any future projects. This network is a powerful resource that saves you time, reduces stress, and gives you peace of mind knowing you're working with a team of vetted experts.

Where to Find the Best Agents

Finding the right agent can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but it doesn’t have to be. The best professionals are often closer than you think. Your search should be a mix of personal recommendations and your own research. By tapping into your network and doing a little online digging, you can create a shortlist of top-tier agents in Metro Detroit who are ready to help you find your next home.

Get Referrals from Friends and Family

Your search should always start with the people you trust most. Ask friends, family members, or even colleagues who have recently bought or sold a home in the area. A personal recommendation is powerful because it comes with a real-life story. Don't just ask if they liked their agent; ask why. Find out how the agent handled negotiations, what their communication style was like, and how they managed any bumps in the road. Hearing about their firsthand experience will give you a much clearer picture than a simple name and number.

Read Online Reviews and Testimonials

After gathering a few names, it's time to see what the wider community has to say. Head online and look up potential agents on sites like Zillow and Google. Pay close attention to the patterns you see in reviews. Is the feedback consistently positive? Do clients praise the agent for being responsive, knowledgeable, and professional? A long history of glowing reviews is a strong indicator that an agent is reliable and effective. Look for agents who have a proven track record of helping buyers find homes similar to what you’re looking for.

Look Up Local Real Estate Groups

Instead of focusing on individual agents, broaden your search to include established real estate teams in your target neighborhoods. Top-producing teams often have more resources, a wider network, and a deep bench of experience to draw from. Do your homework by exploring their websites and social media profiles. This will give you a feel for their brand, their marketing savvy, and their expertise in the Metro Detroit market. A professional online presence often reflects a professional approach to buying a home.

Visit Open Houses in Your Area

Open houses are a fantastic, no-pressure way to meet agents in person. Think of it as a casual audition. As you walk through the home, observe how the hosting agent interacts with potential buyers. Are they welcoming, informed, and professional? Do they seem knowledgeable about the property and the neighborhood? This is your chance to ask a few questions and see how they respond on the spot. You can learn a lot about an agent’s style and expertise just by watching them in their element for a few minutes.

Key Questions to Ask Potential Agents

Think of this stage as an interview where you’re the hiring manager. You’re looking for a long-term partner for one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, so it’s perfectly acceptable to come prepared with a list of questions. A great agent will welcome the conversation and be ready to show you why they’re the right fit for the job. This isn’t about grilling them; it’s about starting a conversation to see if your goals, personalities, and work styles align.

Finding the right person means looking beyond their sales numbers. You want someone who understands the Metro Detroit market inside and out, has a clear plan to help you find your dream home, and communicates in a way that makes you feel confident and informed. Use the questions below as a starting point to guide your conversations and find an agent you can truly trust.

Ask About Their Experience

First things first, you need to get a feel for an agent's background and track record. Experience in real estate isn't just about how many years they've been in the business; it's about their specific, hands-on knowledge of the neighborhoods you're interested in. Ask them, "How long have you been a full-time agent in Metro Detroit?" and "How many buyers did you help last year?" Their answers will give you a clear picture of their dedication and success rate. You can also inquire about any special training or certifications they have, as this shows a commitment to their craft. An agent with a deep understanding of the local market can be your greatest asset.

Ask About Their Strategy

Every buyer's journey is unique, so you need an agent with a tailored strategy, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Ask them, "What's your process for helping buyers find a home in this market?" A great agent will talk about how they source listings—including those that aren't publicly available yet—and how they help buyers craft competitive offers. You can also ask, "What are the biggest challenges for buyers in this area right now, and how do you help your clients overcome them?" Their answer will reveal their problem-solving skills and how they plan to support you. A clear, proactive home buying strategy is a sign you're in capable hands.

Set Communication Expectations

A solid relationship with your agent is built on clear and consistent communication. Before you commit, make sure your styles are a match. Be direct and ask, "How will you keep me updated throughout the process, and how often should I expect to hear from you?" Let them know your preferred method, whether it's texting, emails, or phone calls. A top-tier agent will adapt to your needs and ensure you never feel like you're in the dark. This conversation sets the tone for your entire partnership, ensuring you feel supported and prioritized from the first showing to the final closing. The goal is to find someone who is not just an expert, but also an accessible partner.

Discuss References and Commissions

Don't be shy about asking for references. Any agent who is confident in their service will be happy to connect you with recent clients. Ask, "Could you provide me with the contact information for your last three buyer clients?" Speaking with people who have recently worked with them provides honest insight into what you can expect. It's also important to have a clear conversation about how they get paid. Ask them to walk you through the commission structure and any agreements you'll need to sign. Understanding the financial side of things upfront prevents surprises and helps build a foundation of trust for your working relationship.

How to Vet an Agent's Expertise

Once you have a few potential agents in mind, it's time to dig a little deeper. Think of this as the final interview round where you’re looking for concrete proof that they have the skills, knowledge, and track record to guide you. Taking the time to properly vet an agent's expertise will give you the confidence you need to move forward with one of the biggest purchases of your life. Here’s how to make sure they’re the real deal.

Review Their Sales History

An agent's track record speaks volumes. Don't hesitate to ask, "How many homes did you and your team sell last year?" A high number isn't just for bragging rights; it's proof that they have consistent experience closing deals in the current market. An agent with a robust sales history has handled countless inspections, appraisals, and negotiations, which is exactly the kind of experience you want on your side. This is a key indicator of their ability to get you from house-hunting to holding the keys. Our team at JSA is proud of our history of success right here in Metro Detroit.

Test Their Neighborhood Knowledge

An agent should be your go-to expert on the specific areas you’re considering. Go beyond general questions and test their local knowledge. Ask about school district ratings, the best local coffee shops, or which streets have the most trick-or-treaters. A great agent can tell you about property value trends in Royal Oak versus Ferndale and explain the unique vibe of each community. This hyper-local insight is invaluable for finding a home that truly fits your lifestyle. It’s the kind of detail that helps you find the perfect home, not just a house.

Analyze Their Marketing Plan

Even though you're buying, asking about an agent's marketing plan is a smart move. Ask them, "If I were selling my home, how would you market it?" Their answer reveals how proactive, creative, and resourceful they are. An agent with a sophisticated marketing strategy for sellers is likely just as strategic when it comes to finding off-market properties and positioning you as a strong buyer. They understand how to make things happen. A strong plan shows they have the tools and the drive to succeed, whether you're buying or selling a home.

Check Their Client References

There's no better way to understand what it's like to work with an agent than by talking to people who have already done it. Ask for the contact information of their three most recent clients. A confident agent will be happy to provide them. When you call, ask direct questions: "What was their communication style like?" "How did they handle challenges?" And the most important question of all: "Would you work with them again?" Hearing directly from past clients gives you an honest, unfiltered look at their professionalism and effectiveness, helping you make your final decision with peace of mind.

Understanding Agent Commissions and Agreements

Talking about money can feel a little awkward, but it’s a crucial part of choosing your real estate agent. Before you sign on the dotted line, you need to be crystal clear on how your agent gets paid and what you’re agreeing to. Understanding the financial side of things from the start prevents surprises down the road and helps you build a transparent, trusting relationship with the professional guiding you home. Let’s break down the key agreements and commission structures you’ll encounter.

How Buyer's Agents Get Paid

You might be wondering how your agent makes a living if you’re not writing them a check directly. Typically, real estate agents work on commission, which is a percentage of the home’s final sale price. This commission, usually around 5% to 6%, is generally paid by the seller. The total amount is then split between the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent. For example, on a $400,000 home with a 6% commission, the seller pays $24,000, which is then divided between the two brokerages. Understanding how agent commissions work helps clarify everyone's role in the transaction.

What is Dual Agency?

Dual agency is a term you might hear, and it’s important to know what it means. This happens when a single real estate agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. While it’s legal in Michigan, it can create a potential conflict of interest, as the agent has to balance the needs of two parties with competing goals. If you find yourself in this situation, the agent must provide full disclosure and get your consent. It’s essential to make sure you feel comfortable and that your best interests are still the top priority before agreeing to this arrangement.

The Exclusive Buyer Agreement

When you decide to work with an agent, they will likely ask you to sign an exclusive buyer agreement. Think of this as making your partnership official. This contract solidifies your agent’s commitment to you and your commitment to them for a specific period. It outlines the agent’s duties, the type of property you’re looking for, and how the agent will be compensated. This agreement ensures your agent is paid for the time and expertise they invest in your home search, giving you a dedicated advocate who is focused solely on finding your perfect Metro Detroit home.

Can You Negotiate Commissions?

Yes, you absolutely can. While there are typical commission rates, they are not set in stone. You have the right to discuss and negotiate the commission with your agent before signing an exclusive buyer agreement. An open conversation about the services you expect and the value the agent provides can help you both land on a rate that feels fair. A great agent will be able to clearly articulate their value and work with you to find a comfortable arrangement. If you have questions about commissions or agreements, our team is always ready to provide clear answers.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Choosing a real estate agent is a lot like dating—you’re looking for a partner you can trust with one of the biggest decisions of your life. While you’re interviewing candidates, it’s just as important to know what to avoid as it is to know what you’re looking for. A great agent will make you feel supported and confident, but the wrong one can add unnecessary stress to the process. Keep an eye out for these warning signs to ensure you find a true professional who has your best interests at heart.

Bad Communication and High-Pressure Sales

You should feel like your agent is on your team, not just trying to close a deal. If you’re talking to an agent who seems more interested in talking than listening, that’s a major red flag. A pushy or "salesy" attitude can signal that they’re focused on their commission instead of your needs. Buying a home is a huge step, and you should never feel rushed into a decision. An agent who pressures you to make an offer quickly or dismisses your concerns isn’t respecting your timeline or your boundaries. Pay attention to their responsiveness, too. If they’re hard to reach or slow to reply from the very beginning, that pattern is unlikely to change when things get serious.

Vague Knowledge of Your Area

An agent who claims to be an expert on all of Metro Detroit might be spreading themselves too thin. True expertise is local. A great agent should be able to speak confidently about the specific neighborhoods you’re interested in, from school districts and property taxes to the best local parks and upcoming community projects. Be wary of anyone who gives you vague answers or seems to be guessing. If you ask about recent comparable sales in Ferndale and they can’t give you a clear answer, they probably haven’t done their homework. Similarly, an agent who makes grand predictions about what mortgage rates or home prices will do in the future is overstepping; their job is to interpret the current market, not predict the future.

Promises That Sound Too Good to Be True

If an agent promises you the moon, you should be skeptical. While a positive attitude is great, an agent who guarantees they can find you a home with every single item on your wishlist for 20% under asking price in a competitive market is not being realistic. A good agent will help you understand the market and manage your expectations. They’ll be honest about potential trade-offs and help you prioritize your needs to find the best possible home for your budget. Remember, a real estate agent is your guide and advocate, but they aren’t a miracle worker. You want a partner who is grounded in reality and can give you straightforward advice to help you make an informed decision.

A Lack of Professionalism

This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised. Professionalism goes beyond just dressing the part. It’s about being on time, prepared, and respectful of everyone involved in the transaction. An agent who shows up late to appointments, can’t answer basic questions about a property, or speaks poorly of other agents or clients is showing you their true colors. This is a major financial transaction, and you need someone who will represent you with integrity. If an agent is consistently unavailable for showings or seems too busy to give you their full attention, they may not be the right fit. You deserve an agent who is dedicated to providing you with exceptional service, and our team is built on that principle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an Agent

Finding the right real estate agent is one of the most important steps in your home-buying journey. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and make a quick decision, but a little patience now will save you a lot of stress later. To make sure you find a true partner for your search, let’s walk through a few common missteps you’ll want to avoid.

Mistake #1: Only Talking to One Agent

It’s tempting to sign with the first agent you meet, especially if they come from a friend’s recommendation. But your needs are unique, and what worked for someone else might not be the right fit for you. You should plan to interview at least three prospective agents to get a feel for different personalities, strategies, and levels of experience. Think of it like getting quotes for a major home project—you want to compare your options to find the best value and expertise. This process helps you find a professional who truly understands your goals and has the skills to help you achieve them.

Mistake #2: Choosing Based on Commission Alone

Everyone wants a good deal, but picking an agent just because they offer the lowest commission can be a costly mistake. A less-experienced agent might offer a lower rate, but they may lack the negotiation skills to get you the best price on your new home. A seasoned expert who knows the Metro Detroit market inside and out can save you thousands by crafting a winning offer or identifying potential issues with a property before you’re locked in. The value a great agent provides through their guidance, network, and negotiation prowess is worth far more than a small discount on commission.

Mistake #3: Overlooking Your Communication Style

The home-buying process moves quickly, and clear communication is absolutely essential. Before you commit, make sure your agent’s communication style matches yours. If you live by your text messages but your agent prefers phone calls, you might face frustrating delays. During your initial conversations, ask them how they prefer to communicate and how often you can expect to hear from them. Finding someone who is responsive and keeps you in the loop in a way that works for you will make the entire experience feel more seamless and less stressful. A great agent will adapt to your needs to keep you informed.

Mistake #4: Rushing the Decision

In a competitive market, it can feel like you need to move at lightning speed. But choosing the person who will represent your financial interests is a huge decision, so it’s important to take your time. Rushing often leads to partnering with an agent who isn’t the right advocate for you. Do your research, ask plenty of questions, and check references. The right agent will be happy to give you the space you need to make a confident choice. When you find a team you can trust, like Jim Shaffer and Associates, you’ll feel supported instead of pressured.

How to Make Your Final Choice

You’ve done the research and asked the questions. Now it’s time to trust your gut and choose the agent who feels like the right partner for your home-buying journey. A great agent-client relationship is built on clear communication and shared goals. This final step is about laying the groundwork for a smooth experience by comparing your top choices and setting clear expectations from the start.

Compare Your Top Candidates

With your top contenders in mind, lay their qualifications out side-by-side. One agent might have a stronger sales record, while another presented a more compelling strategy. Think back to your interviews: Who did you connect with? Who listened carefully and answered your questions with confidence? Comparing their different approaches is the best way to see which agent’s style aligns with your own before you sign an agreement.

Set Clear Expectations from the Start

A mismatch in communication styles can cause unnecessary frustration. Before making your decision, be upfront about how you prefer to communicate. Do you want daily texts or a weekly summary call? Let them know what works for you and make sure their style is compatible. Establishing these ground rules from day one ensures everyone is on the same page and helps create an efficient working relationship. A great agent will appreciate your clarity.

Know Your Role as the Buyer

Your agent is your expert guide, but you are an active participant. Take time to learn the basics of the home buying process, from making an offer to understanding the home inspection. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel making key decisions. Your knowledge empowers you to ask better questions and collaborate effectively with your agent. You’re in the driver's seat, and your agent is there to help you reach your destination.

Create a Partnership for Success

Ultimately, choose an agent you genuinely like and trust. You’ll be spending a lot of time together, so a good rapport is essential. Look for someone who listens to your feedback, respects your budget, and makes you feel supported. The right agent will feel like a true partner invested in your success. You're not just hiring a professional for a transaction; you're building a team you trust to guide you through one of life’s biggest milestones.

Related Articles

• How to Find the Best Realtor to Sell My House — Jim Shaffer And Associates
• How to Pick a Realtor When Buying: A 5-Step Guide
• Metro Detroit Real Estate Blog and Local Guides
• How Do I Find a Buyer's Agent? Your 2026 Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it actually cost me to hire a buyer's agent? This is one of the most common questions, and the answer usually puts buyers at ease. In a typical transaction, you don't pay your agent directly. Instead, the agent's commission is paid by the home seller from the proceeds of the sale. That commission is then split between the agent representing the seller and the agent representing you. It’s a structure that ensures you can have expert representation without facing an upfront cost.

Is it better to work with a solo agent or a real estate team? This really comes down to the level of support you're looking for. A solo agent can provide very personalized service, but a real estate team often brings a wider range of resources to the table. With a team, you benefit from the collective knowledge of multiple experts, greater availability for showings, and a support staff that handles the details. This can create a smoother, more efficient experience, especially in a fast-moving market.

What if I sign an exclusive buyer agreement and realize it's not a good fit? This is a valid concern, as you're committing to a professional partnership. Most buyer agreements are for a specific period. If you find the relationship isn't working, the first step is to have an honest conversation with your agent about your concerns. If that doesn't resolve the issue, you can speak with their managing broker. A reputable professional wants you to be happy and will typically work with you to find a solution, whether that's improving the process or agreeing to part ways.

Why is hyper-local experience so much more important than just years in the business? An agent could have 20 years of experience across a wide region, but that doesn't compare to the focused expertise of someone who lives and breathes your target neighborhood. A true local expert understands the subtle market shifts between communities like Royal Oak and Ferndale. They have strong relationships with other local agents, know which homes are about to hit the market, and can give you specific advice on crafting an offer that will stand out to sellers in that particular area.

I'm a first-time homebuyer and feel overwhelmed. What's the single most important quality I should look for in an agent? If you have to focus on just one thing, look for an agent who is a patient and clear communicator. The home-buying process is filled with new terms and complex steps. You need someone who is happy to answer all your questions—no matter how small—and can explain things in a way that makes you feel confident and empowered. An agent who acts as a true guide and educator will turn an overwhelming process into a manageable and exciting one.