How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent for You in Calgary

So, you’ve decided to change your housing situation! That’s a big step, but now comes the next important decision you need to make: What Realtor® do you choose to help you move into the next stage of your life?

Finding the perfect home or selling your property in Calgary’s dynamic real estate market can be a challenging process. While the prospect may seem daunting, a skilled real estate agent can make the difference between an overwhelming experience and a successful, smooth transaction. But how do you go about finding a Realtor who can meet your specific needs and provide you with the best service?

Jesse Davies, a prolific Calgary-based Realtor and the leader of the Jesse Davies Team, has years of experience working with countless clients and other Realtors in Calgary. In his opinion:

“In the bustling real estate landscape of Calgary, finding the right Realtor is not a decision to be made lightly. Just as an explorer wouldn’t embark on a journey with an untested guide, you shouldn’t navigate Calgary’s dynamic property market without a seasoned professional by your side. 

A dedicated Realtor not only understands the unique intricacies of our city’s market but also anticipates challenges and opportunities tailored to their client’s specific needs. This journey, whether you’re purchasing a new home or selling a property, demands expertise, dedication, and a deep-rooted understanding of Calgary’s vibrant real estate tapestry.”

Identify Your Needs

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or looking to sell your property, it’s crucial to identify your specific needs before starting your search for a Realtor. Are you looking for a family home, an investment property, or a commercial building? Do you need help with selling a high-end condo or a bungalow? Each situation requires unique expertise, which is why there are Realtors who specialize in different property types and markets. 

Additionally, consider your timeline and budget, as these factors can greatly influence the process and the kind of agent who will be most helpful. The Calgary real estate market isn’t a monolith, and . 

Harness the Power of Word-of-Mouth and Referrals

In the dynamic world of real estate, personal recommendations are often a key to unlocking the ideal Realtor partnership. Trustworthy word-of-mouth referrals from those within your circle — friends, family, and colleagues — can provide an abundance of valuable insight. 

Not only can these trusted sources recount their first-hand experiences, but they can also offer a candid assessment of a Realtor’s attributes. They can shed light on the Realtor’s professionalism, communication style, negotiation prowess, and, most importantly, their unwavering commitment to putting clients first. 

Moreover, they can provide insights into a Realtor’s responsiveness — how promptly they returned calls or emails, how effectively they understood and catered to unique needs, and if they were adept at securing beneficial deals. 

Research

Though word-of-mouth and personal referrals continue to play a significant role in finding a Realtor, the advent of online reviews and research tools has revolutionized the way people approach their search.

Start by investigating various agents and agencies within Calgary, Alberta. Online platforms like REALTOR.ca are an excellent starting point for finding registered agents in your area. These websites often feature agent profiles, reviews, and ratings which can help you gather preliminary insights. On top of that, you can often find third-party reviews by searching the name of an agent on Google. 

You can also use social media platforms to gauge how agents present and market their listings. Personal referrals are another great source of information. Friends, family, or colleagues who have recently bought or sold properties can provide first-hand insights into an agent’s work ethic, performance, and reliability.

Check Credentials

Agents operating in Calgary must be registered with the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA). Therefore, ensure your prospective agent holds a valid RECA license. This not only verifies their qualifications but also reassures you of their adherence to Alberta’s professional standards and guidelines.

An agent’s affiliation with local real estate boards or national associations like the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) is also a mark of their commitment to their profession. In Calgary, the real estate market is very hot, and countless people are trying to edge their way in as “experts” or “professionals” without the credentials to back their claims. You want and need someone who has put in the legwork to become a professional Realtor. 

Experience and Market Knowledge

Experience often correlates with a strong understanding of the local market, so look for agents who have been working in your area of interest for several years. 

Agents with extensive experience in your property type will likely have a deep understanding of pricing, marketing strategies, and negotiation tactics that work best. Ask about their recent sales and how these properties compare to yours. Double-check that against the listings you can find online. Their knowledge of the local community, schools, amenities, and future development plans can also be valuable in helping you make informed decisions.

That said, it’s also important to remember that experience isn’t everything. Just because someone is a newly minted Realtor without many sales to their name doesn’t mean that they aren’t worth a look. Often, these new Realtors can be “hungry” and eager to prove themselves, working tirelessly to sell your home or find you the home of your dreams. They also might have fewer current clients, meaning they can give you more personalized and attentive service. So long as they have done the research, have the necessary knowledge, and are at a reputable brokerage, you can likely trust them to do the job. Everyone needs to start somewhere! 

Jesse Davis, someone with a tremendous amount of experience mentoring new Realtors in the wild world of Calgary real estate, has this to say about taking on a newcomer Realtor: 

“Working with a new Realtor in Calgary’s market can be a breath of fresh air. While they might be newer to the scene, their enthusiasm and fresh perspectives often translate into a tireless dedication. They want to prove themselves!

It’s essential to remember that every seasoned professional once started as a newcomer. With the right mentorship and a commitment to learning, things we always look for when beginning new Realtors into our brokerage, they can introduce innovative approaches that reinvigorate the buying or selling experience. So, before making a judgment, give new Realtors an opportunity. Their passion, combined with the intricacies of Calgary’s real estate, might just be the perfect blend for success.”

Interview Potential Agents

Some good general advice is that you should never hire a Realtor sight unseen. 

Once you’ve made a shortlist of potential agents, arrange face-to-face meetings. These interviews allow you to assess each agent’s communication skills, professionalism, and dedication. 

This is also a perfect opportunity to gauge their knowledge of the current market trends in Calgary, their marketing strategies, and their ability to negotiate effectively. Don’t hesitate to ask about their fees and commission structure. Ensure their availability matches your schedule, especially if you have limited flexibility.

Trust Your Gut

Honestly, the most important strategy when looking for a Realtor is to trust your gut.

Real estate transactions can be intricate, emotional, and often one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make in your life. Therefore, you need to work with someone you trust. During your interviews, consider all of the above factors, and then ask yourself, “Is this the person I want to work with?” A good agent should not pressure you but will provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions. They should make you feel confident and comfortable, reflecting a partnership based on trust and mutual respect.

Forge a Long-Term Partnership with Your Realtor

Embarking on your real estate journey with the right Realtor can be akin to discovering a reliable companion for your future property pursuits. Imagine having a go-to expert the next time you wish to sell your residence or hunt for that opportunity!

Brokerages thrive on nurturing enduring relationships with their clientele. It’s why they should always push boundaries to exceed client expectations. By showcasing profound local insights, catering to their client needs, and prioritizing their best interests, brokerages and Realtors can cultivate trust and loyalty that results in repeat patronage.

Jesse Davis has experienced the rewards of this long-term approach firsthand. He has collaborated with numerous clients repeatedly, fostering enduring professional bonds spanning many years. Here’s what he shares about the tremendous advantages of partnering with the same Realtor over time:

“The value of long-term in any industry cannot be overstated, but it’s especially important for Realtors. We view each transaction as more than just a deal; it’s an opportunity to lay the foundation for a lasting partnership.

Over time, these sustained engagements allow professionals to better understand and anticipate the evolving needs of their clients. There is no need to get up to speed about a client’s preference because you’ve already worked with them. This commitment to continuity, trust, and mutual respect not only enhances the client experience, but also solidifies a Realtor’s or brokerage’s reputation in the industry.”

Conclusion

Remember, choosing the right real estate agent is not an overnight decision. It’s a process that requires careful consideration, research, and intuition. The perfect agent for you is out there who understands your needs, knows the market inside out, and can guide you effectively through Calgary’s diverse real estate market. 

Take your time, follow these steps, and you’ll find an agent who can turn your real estate goals into a reality.

If you’re looking for experienced and knowledgeable Realtors deeply connected to the Calgary real estate scene, you can connect with Jesse Davies and the Jesse Davies Team.

Alice Yang