Most people don’t know that in order to find the best possible agent, you need to focus on yourself first. Why? Because great agents are interested in working with great buyers who are organized, empowered, and easy to work with. Here are five surefire ways to get noticed. 

1. Get pre-approved and know exactly how much you can afford.

Sounds obvious, but it’s rarely done. Great agents will be far more interested if you can start the conversation with, “I’ve been pre-approved for a $400,000 house, and I’ve got a down payment of $80,000 saved up. Given my household income, I’d feel comfortable with monthly housing expenses of about $2,500. Do you have experience helping people find and buy a house within that price range?”

2. Have an accurate sense of your timing.

If you want an agent to bring high energy and attention to your search, make sure you’re clear about your timing. Ideally you’re prepared to move within 3 months of contacting an agent. It’s fine if it’s longer, as long as you are transparent about it.

3. Have a realistic understanding of your wants and needs.

This one is the most overlooked. Doorsteps has a great “wants and needs” quiz, but you could also write up a list yourself. You need a true understanding of the things you’re willing to be flexible about, and those that are genuine deal-breakers. Force yourself to be flexible about things that are easy to change — an ugly shag rug isn’t a deal-breaker. Once your agent has this list, it’s much easier to get a sense of your likes and dislikes, and understand the things that truly matter to you.

4. Be honest.

Agents waste a lot of time showing properties that buyers don’t like. This isn’t a problem if it happens once or twice — that’s a natural part of the process. But great agents want immediate and detailed feedback so they can refine their search criteria or give you guidance if you have unrealistic expectations. Don’t hold back.

5. Ask them what defines a great client.

Everyone’s different, but it’s important to know what makes your agent tick. You’ll set yourself apart by asking a prospective agent a simple question at the very beginning: “What can I do to help you do your job?” This sends the message that you’re interested in being a great client, and want to make sure they have everything they need to do their best possible work.