Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people ever make. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, having the right real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. A skilled agent not only helps you navigate listings, showings, negotiations, and paperwork but also acts as your advocate, advisor, and guide throughout the process.
If you’re wondering how to find the right agent for your needs, this guide breaks down every step — from understanding what to look for to knowing when you’ve found “the one.”
For example, if you’re looking in the Twin Cities, working with a trusted local expert like Sally English of The Sally English Group ensures you have deep local insight and personalized service from someone who truly knows the area.
Understand What a Real Estate Agent Does
Before you begin your search, it helps to understand exactly what a real estate agent brings to the table. Agents do far more than just open doors and fill out contracts — they’re skilled professionals who:
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Provide insights into local market conditions and pricing trends.
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Help you prepare your home for sale or identify properties that match your wish list.
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Handle negotiations to get you the best deal possible.
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Manage inspections, appraisals, and legal documentation.
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Offer trusted referrals for lenders, contractors, and inspectors.
Good agents balance market knowledge with strong communication and people skills. They’re there to protect your interests and make the process as smooth and profitable as possible.
Decide What You Need in an Agent
Every client’s needs are different. Before reaching out to anyone, take a moment to define what’s most important to you. Are you looking for an agent who specializes in luxury homes, first-time buyers, or investment properties? Do you need someone experienced in a particular neighborhood?
If you’re buying in a competitive area like Minneapolis or St. Paul, an agent with deep local expertise — such as Sally English, a Twin Cities real estate expert — can give you a critical edge. She understands not just current listings but also community trends, upcoming developments, and hidden opportunities that may not yet be public.
Consider your personality and communication style, too. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your agent, so choose someone who listens well, explains things clearly, and makes you feel comfortable asking questions.
If you’re buying in a competitive area like Minneapolis or St. Paul, an agent with deep local expertise — such as Sally English, a Twin Cities real estate expert — can give you a critical edge. She understands not just current listings but also community trends, upcoming developments, and hidden opportunities that may not yet be public.
Consider your personality and communication style, too. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your agent, so choose someone who listens well, explains things clearly, and makes you feel comfortable asking questions.
Research Potential Agents
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to start your research. Begin by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers who have recently bought or sold homes. Their firsthand experiences can give you valuable insights into how different agents work.
Then, expand your search online. Look at agent websites, social media profiles, and client reviews on platforms like Google, Zillow, or Realtor.com.
Pay attention to:
Then, expand your search online. Look at agent websites, social media profiles, and client reviews on platforms like Google, Zillow, or Realtor.com.
Pay attention to:
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Experience: How long has the agent been in the business?
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Specialization: Do they focus on your target neighborhood or price range?
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Reputation: Are clients consistently satisfied?
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Professionalism: Is their online presence informative and polished?
Visiting an agent’s website — like Sally English’s sallyenglishgroup.com — can give you a clear sense of their approach, current listings, and overall expertise.
Interview a Few Agents
Don’t just settle for the first agent you find. Interview at least two or three before making your decision. Treat it like a job interview — after all, you’re hiring someone to manage one of your most important financial transactions.
During your interviews, ask questions such as:
During your interviews, ask questions such as:
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How long have you been working in real estate?
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What’s your experience in this specific area or market?
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How many clients are you currently working with?
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How will you communicate with me, and how often?
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What is your marketing strategy for listings (if selling)?
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Can you share references or recent success stories?
Pay attention not only to the answers but also to how they respond. Are they patient, attentive, and confident? Do they listen carefully to your goals? A great agent combines professionalism with a genuine desire to help.
Check Credentials and Local Expertise
In addition to personality and communication, make sure your agent is qualified. Look for someone who holds the necessary licenses and designations in your state. Professional associations, such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR), add another layer of accountability and ethics.
Local expertise is particularly important. An agent like Sally English, who focuses specifically on the Twin Cities, brings an invaluable understanding of neighborhoods, school districts, and property values unique to that area. A local expert can also tap into networks that give you access to off-market opportunities or reliable local service providers.
Local expertise is particularly important. An agent like Sally English, who focuses specifically on the Twin Cities, brings an invaluable understanding of neighborhoods, school districts, and property values unique to that area. A local expert can also tap into networks that give you access to off-market opportunities or reliable local service providers.
Evaluate Communication and Compatibility
Your relationship with your real estate agent will likely last for weeks or months, so clear communication and mutual trust are essential. Before signing any agreement, observe how well the agent responds to your questions and how proactive they are in sharing information.
A top-tier agent keeps you informed at every stage — whether it’s sending new listings promptly, following up after showings, or explaining next steps clearly. You should feel confident that your agent understands your priorities and advocates for your best interests.
If you’re buying or selling in the Twin Cities, you’ll find that Sally English’s personalized approach and responsiveness make her an exceptional partner. Her clients appreciate her dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to making the real estate journey seamless.
A top-tier agent keeps you informed at every stage — whether it’s sending new listings promptly, following up after showings, or explaining next steps clearly. You should feel confident that your agent understands your priorities and advocates for your best interests.
If you’re buying or selling in the Twin Cities, you’ll find that Sally English’s personalized approach and responsiveness make her an exceptional partner. Her clients appreciate her dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to making the real estate journey seamless.
Compare Commission and Contract Details
Before officially hiring an agent, review their commission structure and contract terms carefully. In most cases, sellers pay a commission (typically 5–6%) that’s split between the listing and buyer’s agents. However, rates can vary, and it’s worth clarifying upfront to avoid surprises.
Also, check for details such as:
Also, check for details such as:
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The length of the contract.
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What services are included (e.g., professional photography, open houses, staging assistance).
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Cancellation policies if you’re not satisfied.
A transparent, well-structured agreement reflects an agent’s professionalism. They should be open about how their commission works and what you can expect in return.
Trust Your Instincts
Numbers and credentials matter, but ultimately, trust your gut. If an agent seems pushy, unresponsive, or dismissive, it’s okay to walk away. The right agent will make you feel understood and supported, not pressured.
Meeting someone who listens carefully, answers honestly, and genuinely wants to help you achieve your goals is a strong sign you’ve found the right fit. Clients who work with Sally English often describe her as both personable and highly knowledgeable — a balance that makes every step of the process smoother and less stressful.
Meeting someone who listens carefully, answers honestly, and genuinely wants to help you achieve your goals is a strong sign you’ve found the right fit. Clients who work with Sally English often describe her as both personable and highly knowledgeable — a balance that makes every step of the process smoother and less stressful.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right real estate agent doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking the time to define your needs, research local experts, and interview candidates thoughtfully, you can find a partner who makes your buying or selling experience not just successful but enjoyable.
In the Twin Cities, working with an established professional like Sally English offers the advantage of local market mastery combined with exceptional client care. Her team’s deep understanding of Twin Cities neighborhoods and commitment to personalized service ensures you have a guide who truly puts your goals first.
Whether you’re preparing to list your home or beginning your search for the perfect new property, start by finding an agent who sees you as more than a transaction. With the right expert by your side, your next move can be the best one yet.
In the Twin Cities, working with an established professional like Sally English offers the advantage of local market mastery combined with exceptional client care. Her team’s deep understanding of Twin Cities neighborhoods and commitment to personalized service ensures you have a guide who truly puts your goals first.
Whether you’re preparing to list your home or beginning your search for the perfect new property, start by finding an agent who sees you as more than a transaction. With the right expert by your side, your next move can be the best one yet.
