How Do You Know Which Realtor to Trust? (Hint: It’s Not the One With the Flashiest Billboard)

You ever meet a real estate agent and instantly get that “too smooth to be sincere” vibe? All smiles, all promises, and somehow you’re suddenly being told your home is worth way more than you thought — or way less.

Yeah. Let’s not do that.

Choosing an agent isn’t about who’s got the biggest following or the glitziest website. It’s about how they think. Here are three quick questions that tell you almost everything you need to know:

• “How do you determine the right price strategy for a home like mine?”
  You’re looking for logic, not luck. If they can’t explain their process in plain English, that’s a red flag. A good agent can explain their process clearly — showing you how they analyze comparable sales, local absorption rates, and buyer demand to position your home strategically.
  If they skip straight to a number without walking you through the reasoning? That’s like a doctor diagnosing you without asking about your symptoms or assessing your body. Big Red Flag! 🚩



• “Can you walk me through a tough negotiation you handled?”
  You want someone who keeps calm when things get heated — not someone who folds at the first counteroffer. An experienced agent should be familiar with the intricacies of creative deal structuring and tactical negotiation strategies. All the better if they've had professional negotiation training and can demonstrate how they put it to good use. If they're working for you as a buyer's agent, they should also understand how to work with mortgage lenders or brokers to get you the best deal possible for your rate and terms, and explore options for helping you with down payment assistance if needed. Knowing when to ask for concessions upfront, based on the market data and your needs, or to hold back in a multi-offer situation so that you can win, is crucial. There are multiple points during a transaction where negotiation can happen; they should know how to handle each one. Real estate isn’t HGTV — it’s a series of negotiations wrapped in emotions and paperwork. Ask for a real example. How did they protect their client’s bottom line when the other side pushed back? How did they keep things from falling apart?
  Their answer reveals whether they’re a problem-solver or a people-pleaser — and trust me, one of those costs you money.

• “What’s your communication style during a transaction?”
  Because radio silence during escrow is not the vibe. You want an agent that will hold your hand through this process, you should get check-ins whenever something new arises in the transaction, at all important dates per the contract, with set-up of all service vendors (like inspections, etc.) and at least once per week to let you know where everything is with the transaction after they've spoken with your lender and the title company. They should have an open line of communication with all parties involved and answer their email, phone/texts, and at least return your calls as quickly as possible. You can survive almost anything in real estate except poor communication. Ask how often you’ll hear from them, what their preferred method is, and how they keep you updated when things get complicated. The right agent makes you feel informed and empowered — not ghosted and guessing.

Here’s the truth: a great agent isn’t focused on closing you — they’re focused on protecting, guiding, and advocating for you.

I work with my clients the same way I’d want someone to help my own family — with honesty, empathy, skill, and clear communication. Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make, and you deserve someone who takes that seriously.

That’s why I do what I do. Because in this business, your reputation and your relationships are everything.

If you want a Realtor who gives you straight answers, honest advice, and zero sales pressure — let’s talk.
📞 Message me today to schedule a quick consultation or just ask me anything about the Houston market. Second opinions are free!