Finding a trustworthy realtor in Texas can make or break your real estate experience. With the market shifting constantly and each city having its own pace, laws, and buyer expectations, having the right person by your side is essential—whether you’re selling a house in San Antonio or buying a new one in Amarillo.
In this guide, we’ll walk through practical tips to help you identify and evaluate the right real estate agent based on your goals, location, and timeline.
1. Define Your Real Estate Objectives
Start by clarifying your goals. Are you buying a first home? Looking for investment properties? Selling quickly before a job relocation? Each situation requires different expertise.
If you’re a first-time buyer, you’ll want someone patient who can explain each step. If you’re a seller in a hot market, you’ll want a skilled negotiator who can secure the best deal fast.
2. Prioritize Local Experience
Texas real estate markets vary widely from region to region. A realtor who thrives in Houston’s high-rise condo scene may not be the right fit for someone buying a family home in San Antonio or rural land outside Amarillo.
If you’re exploring homes in the Bexar County area, start your journey here to look for advice from the best realtor in San Antonio. These professionals know the local communities, pricing trends, school zones, and common challenges in neighborhoods like Stone Oak, Alamo Heights, and the Medical Center area.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to purchase property or sell in the Texas Panhandle, it’s smart to get connected with trusted realtors in Amarillo, TX. Agents in Amarillo are familiar with rural property sales, agriculture zoning, and the nuances of that specific market.
3. Look Beyond Ratings
Online platforms like Zillow, FastExpert, Google, or Realtor.com offer a great starting point. But don’t be fooled by a perfect five-star score without substance.
When reading reviews, look for:
Clear examples of good communication
Stories about successful closings
Mentions of responsiveness and professionalism
Evidence of neighborhood knowledge
A balance of strengths and a few realistic imperfections
Avoid agents who seem “too polished” or only have generic one-liner reviews. Real people write real feedback—and that’s what you should be reading.
4. Interview More Than One Realtor
Don’t settle on the first agent you meet. Instead, treat this as a hiring process. Interview at least two or three realtors and compare their:
Local knowledge
Marketing strategies (if you’re selling)
Network of professionals (inspectors, lenders, etc.)
Personal communication style
Recent results in the area
Ask open-ended questions like:
“What’s your approach to negotiation?”
“How do you handle bidding wars?”
“How quickly do you typically respond to clients?”
A good realtor won’t just talk about themselves—they’ll ask you questions too.
5. Match Their Communication Style to Yours
Some agents love texting quick updates. Others prefer detailed email reports or scheduled phone calls. Choose someone whose communication style fits yours—especially if you have a busy schedule or live out of town.
Also, clarify how often you’ll hear from them and whether you’ll work directly with them or someone on their team.
6. Confirm Credentials and Licenses
All real estate agents in Texas must be licensed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). You can verify their license online, along with any past disciplinary actions.
Additionally, see if they’re part of professional groups like the National Association of Realtors (NAR). NAR members follow a strict code of ethics, and many also have designations like:
ABR – Accredited Buyer’s Representative
CRS – Certified Residential Specialist
SRS – Seller Representative Specialist
These indicate higher training and specialization—valuable if your transaction involves more complexity.
7. Ask About Their Network
A connected realtor is often a more effective one. The best agents know who to call for:
Fast pre-approvals
Reliable home inspectors
Contractors or stagers
Local appraisers and title companies
This network speeds up the process and reduces delays—especially if you’re trying to meet a tight deadline.
8. Understand Their Commission and Fee Structure
In Texas, realtors typically work on a commission basis—usually 5% to 6% of the final home price, split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. But always clarify:
Who pays the commission
What’s included in their services
If there are any extra charges (marketing, photography, etc.)
While you might not negotiate this much as a buyer, knowing the structure helps you plan better.
9. Be Aware of Red Flags
There are some signs that a realtor may not be a good fit:
Avoids direct questions
Seems unfamiliar with your preferred neighborhoods
Pressures you to make decisions quickly
Misses deadlines or shows up late
Is hard to reach during important stages
Trust your gut. The right agent will make you feel informed, empowered, and supported—not rushed or left in the dark.
10. Build a Relationship Beyond the Sale
A good realtor isn’t just for one transaction. They can support you long after the deal is closed—with property tax info, market updates, advice on refinancing, and referrals to other trusted professionals.
Many successful agents rely on repeat clients and word-of-mouth referrals. If you’re happy with your experience, don’t hesitate to recommend them—or call on them again in the future.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the Texas real estate market is a major financial and personal decision. Choosing the right realtor is one of the smartest moves you can make. From understanding local trends to negotiating on your behalf, a trusted agent is your most valuable asset.
If you’re ready to explore your options in the San Antonio area, start your journey here and look for advice from the best realtors in San Antonio. And if your next chapter leads you north, be sure to get connected with trusted realtors in Amarillo, TX, to find professionals who truly understand the local market.
Take the time to choose wisely—because the right realtor can make all the difference.