Why You Should Interview Multiple Agents Before Hiring One

Why You Should Interview Multiple Agents Before Hiring One

Choosing a real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying or selling a home. And yet, many people hire the first person they meet—without comparing strategies, services, or track records.

In a market where tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars can be gained or lost through representation, interviewing multiple agents isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

Here’s why:

1. Every Agent Operates Differently

Real estate isn’t a one-size-fits-all profession.
Agents vary widely in:

• marketing sophistication

• negotiation style

• pricing strategy

• local expertise

• communication habits

• resources and support teams

Interviewing more than one agent allows you to see these differences clearly—so you can choose someone whose approach aligns with your goals, personality, and expectations.

2. You Need a Strategy, Not Just a Sales Pitch

Some agents rely on buzzwords or generalized optimism.
Others come with:

• data-driven pricing models

• buyer behavior insights

• customized marketing plans

• pre-list preparation strategies

• a defined timeline and process

Interviewing multiple agents reveals who has a strategy—and who simply hopes the market will do the work for them.

3. Negotiation Skills Vary More Than You Think

Your agent is your negotiator.
Their ability (or inability) can directly impact your:

• final sale price

• terms

• repair credits

• timing

• leverage

Asking different agents how they handle negotiation will immediately show you who’s reactive… and who’s skilled, proactive, and confident.

4. You Can Measure Experience, Not Just Confidence

Every agent sounds good in a listing presentation.
But experience is measurable:

• past results

• price-to-sale ratios

• time-on-market metrics

• neighborhood expertise

• luxury vs. entry-level proficiency

• client reviews

• off-market capabilities

• success navigating complex transactions

Interview multiple agents and you can compare real numbers—not just polished conversations.

5. Chemistry Matters

You’re going to be communicating with your agent constantly.
Trust, responsiveness, and clarity are just as important as strategy and experience.
Talking to more than one agent helps you gauge:

• who listens

• who collaborates

• who educates

• who communicates clearly

• who respects your goals rather than pushing theirs

A good personality fit often leads to better decision-making and lower stress.

6. The First Agent Isn’t Always the Best Agent

Just because someone’s convenient, recommended by a friend, or quick to respond doesn’t mean they’re the right choice.
Sometimes the best agent is the one who:

• asks better questions

• brings deeper insight

• offers a more intentional plan

• protects you more fiercely

• or simply sees value where others don’t

Interviewing multiple agents gives you clarity—and confidence—before making a commitment.

7. You Learn a Ton Just by Asking Questions

Even if you already have a favorite, interviewing additional agents gives you valuable information about:

• market conditions

• pricing

• competition

• buyer demand

• what preparation is actually necessary

• what marketing should look like

When you hear different perspectives, you’re better equipped to choose—and to succeed.

Bottom Line

Hiring the right agent isn’t about choosing the most convenient option.
It’s about choosing the most qualified, most strategic, and most aligned partner for one of your largest financial decisions.

Interviewing multiple agents doesn’t slow the process—
it protects your equity, sharpens your strategy, and gives you confidence that you’re making the best possible choice.