I’ve seen too many buyers and sellers underestimate just how much a good real estate agent can make or break a deal. The truth? The person you hire could be the reason you walk away with more money in your pocket—or a giant headache.

Why Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent Matters More Than Ever

A recent US News article, June 2025 highlights how the changing market—and shifting fee structures—make hiring the right agent more crucial than ever. With updated rules requiring buyers to sign upfront agreements for agent fees and sellers no longer obligated to pay the buyer’s agent commission, both parties need to be extra intentional about who they hire and why.

What Smart Buyers and Sellers Should Know

1. Commission Isn’t What It Used to Be

The days of assuming the seller pays both sides of the agent fees are over. Thanks to legal changes involving the National Association of Realtors and MLS practices, buyers must now negotiate and agree to their agent’s commission before even touring homes. Sellers can still cover that fee—but only if it’s explicitly negotiated.

Why it matters: Buyers now face an added out-of-pocket cost, while sellers may pocket more by only covering their own agent’s commission. This shifts the dynamics of how value is assessed during a transaction.

2. Not All Agents Are Created Equal

Anyone can hold a license, but that doesn’t mean they’re the right person for your unique needs. Whether it’s an exclusive buyer’s agent or a team-based model, understanding the agent’s specialty, communication style, and workload can drastically affect your experience.

Why it matters: If your agent is juggling 12 clients or doesn’t know your neighborhood well, that “great deal” might slip through your fingers.

3. The First Interview Tells You Everything

Think of it like hiring an employee. Ask: How many deals have they closed recently? Do they work solo or with a team? What’s their negotiation style?

Why it matters: An agent’s ability to work collaboratively—and confidently—could be the difference between a smooth close or a lost opportunity. You want a partner, not a gatekeeper.

4. Online Listings and Reviews Aren’t Enough

Social media profiles and Zillow ratings are only part of the story. Dig into licensing status, ask for references, and actually call them. Ask what went wrong in past deals—not just what went right.

Why it matters: You’re trusting someone with one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. Due diligence matters.

Here’s What I Recommend Right Now

For Buyers:

• Interview at least 3 agents before choosing one
• Clarify their fee structure early—get it in writing.
• Choose someone who can walk you through mortgage preapproval and connect you with reliable lenders.

For Sellers:

• Hire early—even before you think you’re “ready.”
• Ask agents what pre-sale updates will bring the highest return.
• Be clear about marketing expectations and timelines in your contract.

For Everyone

• Don’t just rely on a friend’s recommendation. Vet agents like you would a financial advisor.
• If an agent feels pushy, unclear, or too busy—trust your gut.

Quick Explainer: 

What is a real estate agent, and how do they help?

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who represents you in buying or selling property. They handle everything from setting up showings to negotiating offers, coordinating inspections, and navigating the closing process. The best agents are skilled negotiators, market analysts, and communicators all in one.

Final Take

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, you can’t afford to wing it when choosing an agent. This is not the moment to go with your cousin’s friend “who just got licensed.” With agent commissions now up for negotiation and buyers absorbing more costs, the stakes are higher—and the opportunities greater. The best agents are part strategist, part confidant, and part closer. If yours isn’t all three? Keep looking.

Need a Hand Getting Started?

Many brokerage platforms now offer agent-matching tools based on location, deal type, and specialties. They’re not perfect, but they can help you generate a short list faster.

FAQs

Should I work with a solo agent or a team?

Teams often offer more availability and specialization, but solo agents can offer more personal service. It depends on your priorities.

Can I change agents after signing a contract?

Yes—but read the terms carefully. Some contracts require you to wait or compensate the agent.

Do I need an agent at all if I’m experienced?

If you’re confident in negotiations, legal documents, and timelines, you can go FSBO. But most experienced sellers still use an agent because the risk-reward math often favors expert help.