There are over 45,000 licensed real estate agents in Massachusetts. The range in experience, knowledge, communication, and commitment is enormous. Choosing the right agent — whether you're buying or selling — is one of the most important decisions in your real estate transaction. Here is a framework for evaluating agents intelligently and selecting one who will genuinely serve your interests.

Understand the Different Types of Representation

In Massachusetts, agents can represent buyers, sellers, or both (with disclosed dual agency). Understanding who represents whom matters:

When you call a number on a for-sale sign, you're calling the seller's agent. They can show you the property but cannot represent your interests as a buyer. You deserve your own representation.

What to Look for in a Real Estate Agent

Local Market Knowledge

Real estate is deeply local. An agent who specializes in the South Shore may have a real estate license, but they won't know that homes on the east side of Reading tend to sell faster than those on the west, or which neighborhoods feed into which elementary schools, or what typical days-on-market look like in North Reading's $700,000–$900,000 range. Ask any agent you're considering: How many transactions have you closed in this specific town in the past 12 months? What are the current market conditions in this price range?

Their answers will tell you immediately whether they know the market you're buying or selling in.

Transaction Volume and Recency

Experience matters — but recent experience matters more. An agent who did 30 transactions in 2019 but only 3 in the past year may be out of touch with current market conditions, pricing trends, and best practices. Look for an agent with consistent recent transaction history in your target market. Ask to see examples of recent sales they've represented in your area and price range.

Communication Style and Availability

You are about to navigate a complex, time-sensitive transaction that will likely involve moments of stress and decisions that need to be made quickly. You need an agent who communicates proactively, responds promptly, and explains what's happening clearly at each stage.

In your initial conversation with any agent, notice: Do they listen more than they talk? Do they ask about your specific situation and goals? Do they explain the process clearly without jargon? Are they available to meet on your schedule? These early signals are predictive of how they will behave when it matters.

Negotiation Skills

In both buying and selling contexts, your agent is your advocate at the negotiating table. Ask about their negotiation approach. How do they handle multiple-offer situations for buyers? How do they respond to low offers for sellers? How do they approach inspection negotiations? An agent who has handled dozens of negotiations in your market will have concrete, experience-based answers.

Ready to work with a proven North Shore agent?

Susan Gormady is a top-producing REALTOR® with deep roots in Reading, MA and a proven track record across the North Shore. She'd be honored to earn your trust. Let's start with a conversation.

Meet Susan

Questions to Ask a Prospective Agent

Interview at least two or three agents before making a decision. Here are the questions that will reveal the most:

For Listing Agents (Sellers)

For Buyer's Agents

Red Flags to Watch For

The Value of Reviews and References

Read reviews on Zillow, Google, and Realtor.com. Don't just look at the star rating — read the actual text. Do the reviews mention specific qualities that matter to you (communication, market knowledge, negotiation)? Are there patterns in the feedback, positive or negative?

Ask any agent you're seriously considering for references — past clients willing to speak with you directly. A confident, well-regarded agent will provide these without hesitation. Speaking with a past client for even five minutes can reveal more than any conversation with the agent themselves.

The Agent You Want Works for You

The best real estate agents are characterized by something simple: they put their clients' interests genuinely first, every time. That means giving you honest advice even when it's not what you wanted to hear. It means walking away from an overpriced listing rather than taking it just for the opportunity. It means advising a buyer not to buy a house that isn't right for them even though it would mean a commission. It means showing up, communicating, and solving problems — every step of the way.

That's the agent you're looking for. Don't settle for less.