What to Look for When Choosing a Real Estate Professional

Introduction

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people will ever make. It involves more than just browsing listings or accepting an offer—it requires negotiation, paperwork, market insight, and legal navigation. In this high-stakes process, having the right real estate expert by your side can make all the difference.

But not all real estate professionals are created equal. Whether you’re looking for a real estate agent, real estate broker, or buyer agent, knowing how to evaluate your options ensures you’re working with someone who aligns with your goals, budget, and expectations.

At Mikel DeFrancesco – William Raveis Real Estate, clients are encouraged to ask the right questions and make informed choices about who represents them. This article outlines key factors to consider when choosing the right real estate professional for your next transaction.

Credentials and Licensing

Why Professional Qualifications Matter

The first step in vetting a real estate professional is confirming their credentials. All real estate agents must be licensed by their state, which ensures they have completed mandatory coursework and passed required exams.

Real estate brokers, on the other hand, hold advanced licensing. They often have more experience and can operate independently or manage other agents. If your transaction involves complex legal or financial elements, working with a broker may provide added peace of mind.

Meanwhile, a buyer agent is specifically focused on helping buyers navigate the purchase process. Their expertise lies in locating properties, negotiating offers, and representing your interests throughout the deal.

Before committing, confirm:

• The professional’s licensing status
• Any disciplinary actions on record
• Whether they are part of a reputable agency or brokerage

Local Market Knowledge

More Than Just a Familiar Face

A real estate agent who knows the area well can offer invaluable insight. From school districts and commute times to hidden neighborhood gems, local expertise gives you a competitive edge in both buying and selling.

Ask potential agents:

• How long they’ve worked in your area
• What trends they’ve noticed in the local market
• How they price homes or identify property value accurately

A well-informed real estate broker or agent should be able to provide recent comparable sales, explain seasonal pricing trends, and describe shifts in demand.

Communication Style and Availability

Staying in Sync Throughout the Process

Clear and timely communication is essential in any real estate transaction. Delays or misunderstandings can cost you opportunities or lead to avoidable stress.

When interviewing professionals, consider:

• How quickly they respond to calls or emails
• Whether they prefer text, phone, or email communication
• If they’re available for evenings or weekend showings

You want a partner who is responsive, proactive, and willing to explain every step of the process. A strong working relationship starts with shared expectations about communication.

Negotiation Skills

Securing the Best Deal—Without the Drama

Negotiating is more than just haggling over price. It’s about understanding market value, identifying leverage points, and crafting offers or counteroffers that protect your interests.

A seasoned real estate broker or buyer agent should be able to:

• Justify offer or list prices with data
• Recommend negotiation strategies based on market conditions
• Maintain professionalism under pressure

Strong negotiation skills can make the difference between a successful closing and a lost opportunity. Be sure to ask how your agent approaches tough negotiations or competitive bidding situations.

Marketing Strategy for Sellers

Visibility That Drives Offers

If you’re selling a property, your real estate agent’s marketing plan is critical. A solid strategy should go beyond listing the home online and waiting for interest.

Look for agents who:

• Use professional photography and virtual tours
• Promote listings through social media and targeted advertising
• Host open houses or private showings strategically

A tailored approach based on your property type and neighborhood will bring in more qualified buyers—and potentially drive up the final sale price.

Property Access for Buyers

Making the Most of Your Search

For buyers, especially in fast-paced markets, access is everything. Your agent should be well-connected and proactive in finding both active listings and off-market opportunities.

Ask:

• How they find new listings quickly
• Whether they can offer early access to homes before they hit the public market
• How flexible they are with scheduling tours

A responsive buyer agent may be able to get you in the door faster—sometimes before others even know a home is available.

References and Track Record

Let Results Speak for Themselves

Experience is key, but recent success is more telling than years in the business. Don’t hesitate to request references or ask about recent transactions similar to your own.

For example:

• Have they helped buyers in your budget range?
• Do they have experience selling homes in your neighborhood?
• What was the average time on market for their recent listings?

Even a quick look at online reviews or sales stats can reveal how effective and client-focused the agent truly is.

Compatibility and Trust

The Personal Side of Professionalism

Beyond technical skills, trust your instincts. You’ll be spending time, sharing goals, and making major decisions with this person—it’s important that you feel comfortable.

Consider:

• Do they listen to your needs and preferences?
• Are they transparent about risks, timelines, and challenges?
• Do they seem invested in your success, not just their commission?

A real estate service in Massachusetts is your advocate during what can be a stressful and emotional process. Choose someone who earns your trust from day one.

Conclusion

Finding the right real estate agent, broker, or buyer agent takes more than a quick online search. It requires thoughtful evaluation of credentials, local knowledge, communication style, and commitment to your goals.

By asking the right questions and doing your due diligence, you position yourself for a smoother, more rewarding real estate experience—whether you’re buying your first home or listing a property for sale.

Mikel DeFrancesco – William Raveis Real Estate encourages every client to work with a professional who understands their needs and provides strategic, personalized service. When you choose the right guide, your real estate journey becomes a lot less daunting—and a lot more successful.