5 Things Fullerton Buyers Should Look for in an Agent

By Philip Kang

Philip Kang is the visionary team leader of the HomeReady Team, based in Orange County, California. Since founding the team, Philip has driven rapid growth year after year, with the team on track to close over $150 million in real estate volume in 2025.

Are you choosing the right agent for you? If you’re unsure about what makes a great real estate agent, you’re not alone. Choosing the right agent can make all the difference in your home-buying journey, helping you navigate challenges and secure the best deal.

Here are the five key qualities to look for when choosing an agent:

1. Available to you. When you’re in the middle of a home search or negotiation, you need an agent who’s available to you. This doesn’t mean just sending texts or emails; it means someone who will pick up the phone, answer your questions, and be ready to talk when you need them most.

A responsive agent can help you make timely decisions, especially when you’re negotiating offers or dealing with other time-sensitive issues.

2. Has effective communication skills. Effective communication is important in real estate. A great agent doesn’t just relay information; they actively listen and communicate clearly with both you and the other parties involved. Good communication can be the difference between winning a bid in a competitive market and missing out.

Make sure your agent is someone who can handle difficult negotiations and keep you informed every step of the way.

3. Strategic and with great expertise. Real estate transactions are rarely simple, and every deal is different. You need an agent who has a strategic approach to buying homes. A great agent will assess your needs and devise a plan to help you get the home you want, whether that’s knowing when to bid or how to approach a seller.

Experience is also key, and an agent with a deep understanding of the market will know how to navigate any situation that comes up during your home search.

4. Contract knowledge is essential. Real estate contracts can be complicated, and it’s vital to work with an agent who knows what they’re doing. Look for someone comfortable with documents like the Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA) and has experience handling contracts.

If your agent isn’t familiar with the paperwork, it could cause delays or mistakes that could cost you money or the home you want.

5. Honesty and integrity. Above all, you need an agent who is honest and transparent. There are too many agents who might push you into buying a home just to make a sale. Choose someone who truly has your best interests at heart.

A trustworthy agent will keep you informed of any potential issues with a property, such as unpermitted work or hidden damages, ensuring you’re fully aware of what you’re getting into before you make an offer.

Why it matters. It isn’t just about finding someone to show you houses but rather about finding someone who will guide you through the entire process with expertise and care. With the right agent by your side, you’ll feel more confident and ready to make the best decisions.

Take the time to find someone who aligns with your needs, communicates effectively, and is experienced in the local market.

Are you ready to get started? We offer a free 16-step guide to help you understand the home-buying process. Even if you don’t work with us, it’s a great resource that will give you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions.

If you have any questions or need more guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at (714) 451-4543 or via email at phil@homereadyteam.com. I’m here to help you through the process every step of the way.