How to Find a Real Estate Agent

When you’re buying or selling a home in Pasadena, La Canada Flintridge, and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles, finding the right real estate agent is one of the most important steps in the process. But how do you know you’re working with someone who’s truly great at their job? Whether this is your first time navigating the housing market or you’ve done it before, choosing an agent who aligns with your needs can make all the difference.

Here, we’ll break down the skills, qualities, and insights to look for in a top-notch real estate professional. By the end, you’ll feel confident in spotting the traits that separate good agents from great ones — and how to find the perfect match for your goals.

The right real estate agent is more than just someone who can open doors for you. They’re a partner, a strategist, and sometimes even a therapist. Buying or selling a home is often one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and it comes with a lot of emotions. A great agent understands that and knows how to guide you through the ups and downs of the process.

An excellent agent can help you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and help you reach the best deal possible. On the flip side, the wrong agent can leave you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or stuck with a result you’re less than thrilled about. That’s why it’s worth putting in the effort to find someone who knows their local market and has your best interests at heart.

One of the first things to look for in a standout real estate agent is their knowledge of the local market. Do they know the area like the back of their hand? Can they tell you about current trends, average home prices, and what buyers or sellers are looking for right now? An agent with in-depth market expertise can give you an advantage, whether you’re pricing a home to sell or deciding how much to offer.

Look for someone who can back up their advice with data. Great agents stay on top of market reports and can explain how factors like interest rates or neighborhood growth might impact your plans.

If you’ve ever had a hard time getting a response from someone, you know how frustrating it can be. When it comes to the world of real estate, communication is everything. A great agent should be easy to reach, quick to respond, and clear in their explanations.

Pay careful attention to how an agent communicates from the very first interaction. Are they friendly and professional? Do they listen to your questions and concerns? Strong communication skills are the key to keeping you informed and confident throughout the entire process.

Real estate transactions often come down to negotiation. Whether it’s securing a better price or navigating contract terms, a skilled negotiator can save you thousands of dollars. The best agents know how to advocate for you while maintaining professionalism and keeping deals on track.

Ask potential agents about their approach to negotiation. Do they have examples of deals they’ve negotiated successfully? Confidence, creativity, and a willingness to go to bat for you are signs of a strong negotiator.

In today’s fast-paced real estate market, technology plays a central role. A tech-savvy agent can give you a serious advantage by leveraging tools and platforms that streamline the process. Look for someone who’s comfortable using apps, digital marketing tools, and online platforms to enhance your experience.

For sellers, this might mean creating professional-quality virtual tours and walkthroughs or using social media to reach more clients. For buyers, a tech-savvy agent can set up real-time alerts for new listings, use digital tools to narrow down your search, or even offer virtual showings if you’re out of town. An agent who embraces technology will save you time and make your journey more efficient.

Real estate transactions involve many moving parts, from contracts and inspections to appraisals, deadlines, and more. A slight mistake can lead to major headaches, so attention to detail is a critical quality in any agent. The best agents keep everything organized and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

When meeting with potential agents, ask about their process for managing transactions. Do they have a system in place for staying on top of the various deadlines? Their answer can give you insight into how they handle the details.

In the end, finding a great real estate agent isn’t just about credentials or experience — it’s about finding someone who understands your needs, communicates clearly, and has the skills to deliver exceptional results.

If you’re aiming for excellent outcomes, begin your real estate journey in Pasadena, La Canada Flintridge, and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles with Jeannie Garr Roddy by your side today.

Jeannie is also a licensed Austin real estate agent. For new listings in Austin, browse her website here.