10 | How to Choose and Work with the Right Realtor for You

Hiring a realtor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying or selling — but most people are asking the wrong questions.In this episode of Espressold, Paula and Annie break down what actually happens after you sign with an agent. From team structures and communication layers to high-volume businesses and execution gaps, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how real estate is really handled behind the scenes.Because the reality is:The agent you meet isn’t always the one managing your deal.This episode is designed to help buyers and sellers understand the difference between experience and capacity, and how to evaluate whether an agent can truly protect their outcome — not just win their business.Why hiring the “most experienced” agent doesn’t always mean you’ll receive the highest level of attention — and how workload directly impacts execution.Understanding team structures, assistants, and delegation — and why clarity around roles is critical before you sign.A real transaction example where a high-value item included in the contract was removed before possession — highlighting how miscommunication between agent, assistant, and client can create costly issues.What those “30 deals a month” claims actually mean for your experience — and the key question every client should be asking.From both the buyer and seller perspective — what good service actually feels like when it’s done right.A practical framework of questions to help you vet agents with clarity and confidence before hiring.You’re not just hiring experience — you’re hiring executionClarity around who is handling your deal is criticalCommunication gaps can directly impact your outcomeHigh volume doesn’t automatically equal high serviceThe best agents combine strategy, responsiveness, and accountability You’re planning to buy or sell and don’t know how to choose the right agent You’ve assumed “top producer” equals best service You want to avoid miscommunication, delays, or costly mistakes You value a clear, guided, and well-managed experience You want to feel confident in who is actually representing youStructure & CommunicationWho will be my main point of contact throughout this process?Will I be working directly with you, or with members of your team?In what situations would I be speaking with you vs. an assistant or team member?How often should I expect communication and updates?What is your typical response time for calls, texts, and emails?Roles & AccountabilityWho is responsible for managing my deal from start to finish?Who handles negotiations?Who is responsible for preparing and reviewing documents?Who ensures deadlines and conditions are met on time?If something goes wrong, who is ultimately accountable?Execution & Detail ManagementHow do you track and manage key deadlines in a transaction?Availability in Critical MomentsIf something time-sensitive comes up, how quickly can you respond?What happens if you are unavailable when a decision needs to be made?Do you personally handle urgent negotiations?