{"id":17699,"date":"2026-02-11T04:19:31","date_gmt":"2026-02-11T12:19:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/?p=17699"},"modified":"2026-02-17T18:29:43","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T02:29:43","slug":"buyer-how-to-pick-a-real-estate-agent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/buyer-how-to-pick-a-real-estate-agent\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Pick a Real Estate Agent for Buying a Home"},"content":{"rendered":"

Today\u2019s evolving housing market<\/a> is notably different from what we\u2019ve experienced in the past few years. Elevated interest rates<\/a> may have lowered slightly, but inventory is still on its way to recovery. Some sellers also face difficulties adjusting to a different demand and complicated market conditions. With this current landscape in mind, arguably the most important first step in your homebuying journey is knowing how to pick a top real estate agent.<\/p>\n

According to a recent report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), <\/span>86% of buyers<\/span><\/a> said their agent was a useful source of information when navigating the homebuying process. When you choose well, your real estate agent will be your guide as you find your perfect home and make it to the closing table. They will walk you through everything you need to know and <\/span>provide resources you can\u2019t find anywhere else.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n \"homelight\n <\/div>\n \n

Need Help Buying Your Dream Home?<\/h3>\n

We analyze millions of home sales to find buyer’s agents who will show you the perfect home with the right price. Our service is 100% free, with no catch. Agents don\u2019t pay us to be listed, so you get the best match.<\/p>\n \n

\n Get Started<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

In the past, when the market was a hot seller’s market<\/a>, agents were essential for making swift offers and helping buyers secure homes amid bidding wars. Now, as market trends<\/a> shift, effective negotiation skills are crucial once again. You need a buyer\u2019s agent who excels in negotiating repairs, updates, and pricing<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Finding the right agent can be challenging. To simplify this process, we’ve compiled a comprehensive 17-step guide, drawing on insights from experienced real estate professionals and extensive research, to help you select the perfect agent and move closer to homeownership.<\/p>\n

What does a buyer\u2019s agent do?<\/h2>\n

A buyer\u2019s agent acts as an advocate for the buyer throughout the homebuying process. Their duties include but aren\u2019t limited to:<\/p>\n