How to Find and Choose the Right Real Estate Agent or Realtor (Detailed Guide) for Canadians

Step 1: Understanding the Role of a Real Estate Agent

It is crucial to understand what a real estate agent does and how they can facilitate you before diving into your search for the right agent.

  • For Buyers: Real estate agents help you accomplish many tasks like; finding properties that match your criteria then arranging showings & providing insights into local markets, and negotiating offers.
  • For Sellers: Agents market your home, assess your property’s value, host open houses & negotiate with potential buyers to secure the best deal.
  • Dual Representation: An agent may represent both the buyer and seller in some cases so make sure that you understand the implications of this arrangement (if applicable.)

Step 2: Start Your Search

Finding the right agent starts with gathering recommendations and conducting research

Ask for Recommendations

  • Friends and Family: Reach out to people you trust and who have recently bought or sold a home. Personal referrals are often the most reliable.

  • Neighbors: If you're selling, ask neighbors who've recently sold their homes for referrals.
Research Online
  • Read reviews on Google, Yelp, or local real estate websites.
  • Check social media profiles or LinkedIn to get a sense of their professionalism market activity, and recent projects.

Step 3: Narrow Down Your Options

It is time to evaluate them as now you have narrowed down a few potential agents.

Look for Local Expertise
  • Choose someone with a strong presence in your target area. Local agents often have deeper market knowledge and valuable connections.
  • Review their recent listings and sales in your neighborhood or city.
Evaluate Experience
  • Check how long they've been in the business.
  • Review their areas of specialization (e.g., luxury homes, condos, first-time purchasers).
  • Look at their track record of successfully closed deals (success quadrant matters.)

Step 4: Conduct Interviews

Interviewing agents helps you assess their expertise, communication style, and compatibility with your needs.

Consider interviewing at least 2–3 agents before making a decision. You should check our detailed guide on how to interview a real estate agent.

Step 5: Check Credentials and References

Before finalizing your decision, verify the agent’s credentials and reputation.

Verify Licensing

  • Check their licensing with your local real estate board or governing authority.

Real Estate Council of Ontario RECO’s Realtor Search Tool

Real Estate Council of Alberta: Realtor Search Tool

British Columbia Real Estate Association: Realtor Search Tool

  • Look for additional certifications: Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)/Certified Residential Specialist (CRS).

Ask for References

  • Request some contact information for past clients.
  • Follow up with these clients to ask about their experiences with your selected agent.

Step 6: Assess Their Communication Style

Effective communication is the key in real estate transactions so select someone who:

  •  Listens attentively to your needs & concerns.
  • Provides you with clear & prompt responses to your queries.
  • Keeps you posted throughout the process.


Step 7: Evaluate Compatibility

Although working with an agent requires a good working relationship so select someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your goals while aligning with your values but trust your instincts if something feels off, it might not be the right fit.

Step 8: Compare and Make Your Decision

Once you have interviewed multiple agents, compare them on:

  • Fees & terms of contract
  • Expertise & experience
  • Marketing & negotiation strategies
  • Personal compatibility

Step 9: Finalize the Agreement

Now that you have selected an agent, make sure to review their agreement thoroughly before signing:

  • Payment structure & Commission rate
  • Duration of contract
  • Services they will be providing
  • Cancellation/termination clauses

Step 10: Start the Journey

Officially start your real estate journey with the right real estate agent by your side. All you have to do is communicate openly, stay involved, and trust their expertise to handle the process.

The End Word

It is no doubt that getting the right real estate agent takes time, meticulous research, and thoughtful consideration. However, by following the above steps, you will be well-equipped to choose an agent to help you navigate the complexities of buying or selling a home while ensuring your goals are met.

Note: The aforementioned guide is provided by our experienced real estate broker, Faiza Ahmed;  for information purposes only.

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