How to Find a Real Estate Agent

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make—and the right guidance can make all the difference. Whether you're navigating your first transaction or looking to upgrade your property, the agent you choose plays a key role in your success. If you're wondering how to find a real estate agent you can trust in Brentwood, you're not alone—and you're asking the right question.

When it comes to real estate, location isn't just everything—it's also what makes every transaction unique. Brentwood has a distinct market defined by luxury homes, tight inventory, and high buyer expectations. That’s why working with a Brentwood Realtor who specializes in the area gives you a competitive edge.

An agent familiar with Brentwood’s micro-markets, such as Brentwood Park, Crestwood Hills, or Mandeville Canyon, will understand pricing trends, buyer behavior, and neighborhood-specific nuances that a generalist might miss. Local knowledge ensures you get accurate advice and strategic guidance tailored to your property and goals.

Before hiring an agent, interview at least two or three candidates. This isn’t just about reviewing resumes—it’s about making sure they’re a good fit for your needs. Whether you’re buying a contemporary hillside home or selling a mid-century on a walkable street, ask questions like:

• How long have you worked as a Brentwood Realtor?
• What’s your experience with properties in this price range or neighborhood?
• How do you approach pricing, staging, or negotiation?
• What’s your availability for showings and communication?

Pay close attention to their answers and how they communicate. You want someone who listens, responds promptly, and gives honest, clear advice.

In a high-demand market like Brentwood, results matter. Look for an agent with a track record of successful closings, preferably within your target neighborhood or property type. An experienced Brentwood Realtor will be able to share recent comps, list-to-sale price ratios, and timelines from past transactions.

Reviews and testimonials can also offer insight. Look for consistent praise in areas like market knowledge, responsiveness, and professionalism. Word-of-mouth recommendations from neighbors or friends in the area are also worth pursuing, especially in tight-knit communities where reputation carries weight.

Real estate is fast-paced, especially in a market like Brentwood. Whether you’re buying or selling, you’ll want a professional who keeps you informed and anticipates next steps. When you’re looking for a real estate agent, communication style should be a key factor.

Some clients prefer daily updates, while others just want to be looped in when something important comes up. The right agent will adjust to your preferences while keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Ask potential agents how they keep their clients informed—through calls, texts, emails, or digital tools—and how frequently you can expect updates.

For sellers, a strong marketing strategy is non-negotiable. Ask potential agents how they plan to present your home to the market. Do they use professional photography, video tours, and staging? Are listings promoted across MLS, social media, and luxury real estate platforms?

A top Realtor will offer a modern, tech-forward approach that matches the caliber of the property and the expectations of today’s buyers. For buyers, it’s equally important that your agent is plugged into both on-market and off-market opportunities, especially in a low-inventory area like Brentwood.

Beyond credentials and stats, choose someone you genuinely trust and feel comfortable working with. Real estate transactions can be emotional, high-pressure experiences, and the last thing you need is friction or miscommunication with your agent.

A strong agent-client relationship is built on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. If you're unsure how to find a real estate agent who checks all those boxes, start by observing how each candidate makes you feel in your first conversation—do they listen, explain clearly, and offer value right away?

Just as it’s important to look for the right traits, it’s wise to steer clear of red flags. These may include:

• Vague or evasive answers to specific questions
• Overpromising on price or timing
• Lack of familiarity with the Brentwood area
• High-pressure sales tactics

An honest agent will give you realistic expectations, not just tell you what you want to hear. In Brentwood’s nuanced market, honesty is essential to making smart decisions.

Ultimately, the best agent for you is someone who combines deep local expertise with clear communication and a proven ability to deliver results. Brentwood buyers and sellers have high standards, and the right agent will meet those expectations and exceed them.

From understanding school districts and zoning regulations to navigating multiple-offer scenarios or preparing a luxury listing for market, a great agent wears many hats. They become your advisor, negotiator, and problem-solver. The more aligned you are with your Realtor from day one, the smoother your experience will be.

If you're starting your journey and want to find a real estate agent you can count on, look no further than Jonathan Ruiz. With years of experience representing clients in Brentwood and across Los Angeles’ Westside, Jonathan combines local knowledge with personalized service to guide clients through every step of the process. Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options, reach out today to get expert advice and a strategy built for success.