Picking a dependable agent to handle your home transaction is one of the most vital decisions you’ll make during the home disposal journey. A high-performing agent can transform a stagnant property into a hot commodity, while a unqualified professional can lead to a prolonged listing with little interest. Begin by assessing agents based on their local expertise. Community-specific expertise is indispensable—it means understanding buyer behavior, district ratings, and what motivates buyers in your area.

Request contact info from previous clients and dig into ratings. A professional Real estate agent Peterborough will readily share client letters and invite you to speak directly with those who’ve worked with them. Inquire with them about how quickly they replied, how transparent they were, and how professionally they navigated counteroffers. Did they keep you in the loop? If the answer is no, keep looking.

Meet with multiple candidates before deciding. During each meeting, find out their advertising approach. Do they use professional staging photos? Do they create 3D walkthroughs? Are they active on Zillow and Realtor.com? Do they combine traditional and tech-driven methods? A innovative marketing specialist knows how to position your home to attract serious buyers.

Check their time-to-sale metrics and their closing price versus asking price. These numbers reveal how accurately they price. An agent who regularly exceeds asking price is likely a sharp market analyst. Avoid those whose numbers are below average.

The agent’s responsiveness must suit your needs. You need someone who answers calls within hours. They should keep you briefed at every stage and break down contracts simply. If an agent is unwilling to answer questions during your first meeting, that’s a red flag. Selling a home involves tight deadlines—you need a partner who is transparent and calm.

Confirm their active credentials to ensure they’re free of disciplinary actions. Some also hold specialized certifications like Certified Residential Specialist, which signal specialized knowledge in residential sales.

Don’t be swayed by unrealistic offers. A overinflated appraisal may sound great, but it often leads to a stalled sale. A realistic strategist will back their price with recent comps.

Follow your intuition. You’ll spend weeks working with this person. Make sure you feel respected with their personality. A exceptional professional doesn’t just close deals—they make an emotional process feel safe and clear. Compare multiple options and select a true advocate.