How to Find a Real Estate Agent

Finding the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your home-buying or selling journey. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home in Overland Park or sell a luxury property in southern Johnson County, the agent you choose will have a direct impact on your experience and outcome. The local market can move quickly, and working with a knowledgeable, responsive professional can make all the difference.

But, not every agent brings the same level of service, market insight, or negotiation skills. So, how do you know who’s the right fit for your needs? Follow these key steps to identify and partner with the best real estate professional for you.

Before you start interviewing agents, it’s important to understand your own priorities. Are you a buyer hoping to find a move-in-ready home near Blue Valley schools? Are you selling a high-end property in a gated Overland Park community? Your goals will shape the type of expertise you need.

If you’re relocating from out of state, you may benefit from someone who can handle virtual tours and remote closings. If you’re focused on investing, you'll want an agent who knows rental trends and local appreciation rates.

Make sure your expectations are clearly outlined so you can evaluate whether an agent’s experience aligns with your goals.

In real estate, hyperlocal expertise is everything. An agent may be licensed to work anywhere in Kansas, but that doesn’t mean they understand the nuances of Overland Park’s market. You want someone who knows the differences between subdivisions, is aware of upcoming developments, and can speak to neighborhood amenities and pricing trends with confidence.

An agent familiar with areas like Wilshire Farms, Mills Farm, and Coffee Creek will be able to provide accurate pricing strategies and smart guidance based on recent activity. They’ll also have established relationships with local lenders, inspectors, and contractors.

Kansas requires real estate agents to be licensed, but beyond that, there are other qualifications that signal professionalism and commitment. Look for agents who are members of professional associations and who have advanced designations or certifications.

Also, ask about their years of experience and the types of transactions they’ve handled. Someone with a strong track record in Overland Park—and a clear understanding of both buyer and seller representation—can offer a well-rounded perspective that benefits you.

A seasoned agent will be happy to provide a list of recent transactions. This can give you a sense of the price points and property types they’ve worked with. If possible, ask for references from past clients who had similar goals to yours.

Even better: look at online reviews across multiple platforms. Feedback from actual clients can help you assess communication style, responsiveness, and professionalism. You’re looking for someone who not only knows real estate but also prioritizes client service.

It might be tempting to hire the first agent you meet, but talking to multiple professionals can give you perspective on different working styles and marketing strategies. Ask each agent how they plan to help you reach your goals, how often they communicate with clients, and how they approach negotiation.

Personality and communication style matter, too. You’ll be working closely with your agent throughout the process, so it’s essential to find someone who listens well, responds promptly, and makes you feel supported.

If you’re selling a home, ask how the agent plans to market it. A strong digital presence is non-negotiable—buyers expect high-quality photography, detailed listings, and exposure on multiple platforms. The right agent should have a solid marketing plan that includes:

On the buyer side, an agent should be comfortable using apps and tools to streamline your search, send alerts for new listings, and schedule showings efficiently.

One of the top complaints clients have about real estate agents is poor communication. Don’t let that happen to you. From your first interaction, note how quickly the agent responds, how clearly they answer your questions, and whether they follow through on what they promise.

You want someone who keeps you informed at every stage of the process and is available when you need them—especially when it’s time to make an offer or review inspections.

Once you’ve selected an agent, you’ll typically sign a buyer or seller representation agreement. This document outlines your relationship, including terms, duties, and any commission structure. Don’t be afraid to ask questions before signing.

In Kansas, the commission is usually paid by the seller and split between the listing and buyer’s agents. However, every situation is unique. Your agent should be transparent about compensation and timelines from the start.

Ultimately, your comfort level matters. Buying or selling a home is a major life event, and you should feel confident that your agent is on your side. If someone seems too pushy, disinterested, or vague, keep looking. There are plenty of qualified professionals in Overland Park—take the time to find the one who aligns best with your needs.

When you find the right agent, the entire experience becomes more seamless and less stressful. You gain a trusted advisor, a fierce advocate, and a local expert who can help you reach your real estate goals.

If you're searching for a dedicated, knowledgeable real estate professional in Overland Park, look no further than Trent Gallagher. With a deep understanding of the local market and a commitment to client satisfaction, Trent helps buyers and sellers navigate the process with confidence and clarity.

Whether you're buying a family home, listing a luxury property, or relocating from out of state, Trent brings professionalism, communication, and market insight to every transaction. Reach out to Trent Gallagher today and discover how the right agent can make all the difference in your next move.