Finding the Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Right Realtor for Your 2026 Home Purchase or Sale

The right professional can guide you through the process, help you navigate challenges, and make sure you get the best deal possible. But with so many agents to choose from, how do you find the perfect fit for your needs? Here are four tips to help you pick the right realtor for your 2026 transaction.

Get Clear on What’s Important to You

Before you start searching for a realtor, take some time to think about your priorities. Do you want someone with deep knowledge of your neighborhood? An agent who specializes in first-time buyers, luxury homes, or investment properties? Or are you looking for someone who communicates frequently and keeps you in the loop every step of the way? Define what “success” looks like for your real estate transaction and identify qualities in an agent that align with your goals. Whether it’s experience, local market knowledge, or a strong negotiation style, knowing what you value will help you focus on the agents who are the best fit for you.

Ask for Recommendations from People Who Have Bought or Sold in the Last Two Years

Referrals are one of the best ways to find a great realtor, but make sure you’re asking people who have recently bought or sold a home. The real estate market changes fast, and agents who were great five years ago might not be as in tune with current trends or strategies. Ask friends, family, or colleagues about their experiences. Did they feel supported? Was their agent responsive and professional? Were they happy with the outcome of their transaction? Personal recommendations can give you valuable insight into what it’s like to work with a particular agent.

Interview More Than One Agent and Ask Direct Questions

Don’t feel pressured to go with the first agent you meet. Take the time to interview at least two or three agents and compare their approaches. This process gives you a chance to see how they communicate, their level of expertise, and whether they’re a good match for your needs.

Listen to Your Gut

Once you’ve done your research and talked to a few agents, trust your instincts. You’ll be working closely with your realtor, so it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. Pay attention to how well they listen to your concerns and whether they seem genuinely interested in helping you. If something feels off or you don’t feel fully supported, it’s okay to keep looking. The right realtor will make you feel confident, informed, and in control throughout the process.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or both, having the right realtor by your side can make all the difference in achieving a smooth and successful transaction in 2026. Take your time, ask the right questions, and find a partner who will have your back every step of the way!

We’d love the opportunity to work with you when the time comes to buy or sell your Guelph home. And if your plans take you beyond Guelph, we’re still here to help - through the Royal LePage Canada network, we can connect you with exceptional, trusted agents anywhere across the country to ensure you’re in great hands, wherever your next move may be.