How To Choose The Right Realtor (Buyers & Sellers, Read This Before You Regret It)

Let’s face it: There are a lot of people with real estate licenses… but not all of them should be guiding you through one of the biggest financial moves of your life.

Whether you're selling your home in Eau Claire, buying your first house in Altoona, or making a strategic move across town in Chippewa Falls — the agent you choose matters more than ever. The market is changing fast, and having the wrong person in your corner can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

So how do you choose the right Realtor — someone who won’t just “do the job,” but who will actually look out for you?

Here’s a real-world guide (no sugarcoating) to help you pick the right pro for your next move.

1. Look for Local Knowledge — and Local Hustle

A great Realtor doesn’t just know the Chippewa Valley — they understand it.

Whether it’s knowing how to price your home so it doesn’t sit on the market, or spotting an underpriced gem before it’s gone, local insight makes a massive difference. You want someone who can tell you:

What homes are actually selling for — not just what Zillow says
Where the next up-and-coming neighborhood is
How school zones, taxes, and local development will impact your decision

🔍 Ask: “What’s happening in this area that could affect my price or timing?”
The right agent will have answers — not guesses.

2. Strategy Over Sales Talk

Some agents want to wow you with slick marketing or flashy promises. That’s fine — until the real work starts. You need someone who:

Builds a strategy tailored to your situation
Knows how to negotiate like it’s a championship game
Doesn’t disappear once the contract is signed

For sellers, it’s about more than photos and open houses — it's knowing when to list, how to position the property, and what not to waste money on before listing.

For buyers, it’s about understanding your goals, navigating low inventory, writing strong offers, and knowing when to walk away.

💡 Pro Tip: Ask about their process. Good agents run like clockwork. Great agents tailor that clock to your time zone.

3. Communication Is Everything

Buying or selling a home can feel like a roller coaster — and you deserve someone who keeps you buckled in, not in the dark. Look for an agent who:

Responds quickly and clearly
Explains next steps before you have to ask
Tells you what you need to know (even when it’s not what you want to hear)

📱 Test this early. Text or email them after hours or on the weekend. If it takes them two days to respond now, imagine how they’ll handle negotiations...

4. Reviews That Actually Say Something

A bunch of “They were great!” reviews? Meh. Look for feedback that mentions:

How the agent solved real problems
Whether they advocated strongly for their client
How they handled stress, speed, and surprises

🗣️ Better yet — ask to speak to a past client. If an agent won’t connect you with someone they’ve worked with recently, consider that a red flag.

5. Commission Isn’t Just a Number — It’s a Reflection of Value

Trying to save a percent here or there by going with a cut-rate agent can cost you way more in the long run. You’re not just paying for their time — you’re paying for:

Their pricing accuracy
Their negotiation skills
Their network of contractors, lenders, stagers, inspectors, and more

🏡 Whether you’re buying or selling, a great agent makes you money, saves you stress, and protects your interests the whole way through.

6. Make Sure They’re In It for the Right Reasons

Real estate is personal. You deserve someone who’s in this business because they care about people — not just commission. Look for someone who:

Treats your goals like their own
Speaks to you, not just at you
Puts the relationship ahead of the transaction

Because let’s be real: The right agent will earn your trust for life — not just your signature for a few weeks.

Ready to Make a Move in the Chippewa Valley?

Whether you’re buying your first home in Eau Claire, selling your current one in Altoona, or trying to figure out where to start — I’m here to make sure you get honest advice, a smart strategy, and solid results.

No pressure. No sugarcoating. Just a conversation to help you make the best decision for you.

Let's connect and talk about your goals! Call or text me at 715.598.9900 or email me at [email protected].

I'm here for you, when you're ready.