How to Find a Real Estate Agent

When buying or selling a home, working with the right real estate agent can make all the difference. A knowledgeable agent brings clarity, experience, and market insights that help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're new to the process or relocating, knowing how to find a real estate agent you can trust is an important first step—especially in competitive markets like Woodstock, CT real estate.

A professional real estate agent acts as your advisor, negotiator, and advocate. They manage listings, navigate offers, coordinate inspections, and help you close efficiently. With property transactions involving significant financial and emotional investment, having a dependable expert by your side is essential.

In areas like Woodstock, CT, where local knowledge can influence everything from pricing to neighborhood selection, choosing the right agent becomes even more critical. The real estate landscape here requires someone who understands the nuances of the community, the trends in demand, and the best strategies for success.

Before searching for an agent, define what you’re looking for in a real estate transaction. Are you buying your first home? Downsizing? Investing? Selling a luxury property? Different agents often specialize in different areas of real estate, including residential, investment, luxury, or relocation services. Knowing your priorities will help you identify an agent whose strengths align with your goals.

Start your search by asking friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Personal referrals often provide insight into how agents work, communicate, and support clients throughout the process.

In addition to referrals, read online reviews on platforms like Google, Zillow, or Realtor.com. Look for patterns in feedback. Does the agent respond quickly? Are they known for negotiating effectively? Do clients feel informed and confident throughout the process? This research helps create a short list of agents worth contacting.

Make sure the agent is licensed in your state and in good standing with the appropriate real estate board. In Connecticut, for example, agents must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Protection.

You can also check for additional certifications such as Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) or Certified Residential Specialist (CRS). These designations signal ongoing professional development and a commitment to quality service.

Schedule interviews with at least two or three agents. This gives you a chance to compare experience, communication styles, and strategies.

Ask questions such as:

• How long have you worked in real estate?
• What is your experience in the Woodstock, CT, real estate market?
• Can you share your recent sales history?
• How will you communicate updates with me?

The interview process allows you to evaluate how well the agent understands your needs and how they plan to guide you through the transaction.

Woodstock, CT, offers a unique mix of rural charm, historic homes, and modern properties. A local expert will know which neighborhoods best match your criteria and how to position your offer or listing strategically.

Ask potential agents about current trends in Woodstock real estate. Do they know how long homes typically stay on the market? Are prices trending up or down? How competitive are current conditions for buyers or sellers? A seasoned agent will answer confidently and share specific, local insights.

Buying or selling a home involves time-sensitive decisions. You’ll want a responsive agent who keeps you informed throughout the process.

During your initial conversations, note how quickly the agent responds to emails or phone calls. Are they organized? Do they provide clear answers to your questions? Consistent, professional communication is key to a successful working relationship.

If you're selling a home, your agent’s marketing plan matters. Effective agents offer a multi-channel approach that includes professional photography, online listings, open houses, and targeted outreach.

Ask how the agent plans to market your home and whether they provide staging advice or connections to local contractors. A strong marketing strategy can significantly impact how quickly your property sells—and for how much.

Experience and results often go hand in hand. Ask about the agent’s past transactions—how many homes they’ve sold recently and what price ranges they typically work in.

Agents with a consistent history of closed deals can usually handle unexpected challenges more efficiently. Also, pay attention to how many clients they’re currently working with; an overloaded schedule may lead to less personalized attention.

Real estate transactions can take weeks or even months. You'll be in frequent contact with your agent, so personal compatibility matters. Do you feel comfortable asking questions? Does the agent listen to your concerns and preferences?

A good relationship is built on trust and mutual respect. If you’re unsure during early conversations, it may be a sign to keep looking.

While commission rates are part of the conversation, the cheapest option isn't always the best. A more experienced agent may charge a standard rate but bring added value through negotiation skills, marketing expertise, and better service.

Instead of focusing solely on cost, weigh the agent’s experience, market knowledge, and overall service offering. A skilled agent often saves clients more money in the long run.

Learning how to find a real estate agent takes time, but it's worth the effort. The right agent will simplify the process, protect your interests, and help you reach your goals in today’s market. In Woodstock, CT real estate, having a trusted local expert can make your buying or selling experience smoother and more successful.

Jennie Kesselman combines strategic insight with a personalized approach, helping clients navigate each step of the real estate process with confidence and clarity. As the founder of the Marquee Team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Jennie leads with a results-driven mindset and a strong sense of integrity. She serves buyers and sellers across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, offering expertise across a range of real estate types—including residential, luxury, and investment properties.

During her first year, Jennie's drive and client-focused service earned her the prestigious Rookie of the Year title across the entire Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England, New York, and Hudson Valley Properties region. She now ranks in the Chairman’s Gold Circle, placing her among the top 2% of agents in the global Berkshire Hathaway network.

Contact Jennie Kesselman today for expert advice and personalized assistance navigating the Woodstock, CT, real estate market.