Buying or selling a home may be stressful, but you can relieve a significant amount of anxiety by finding a reputable realtor in your area. The best realtor is not necessarily the one that sells the most homes, makes the most money, or works at the largest firm—a great realtor listens to you and knows your local real estate market like the back of their hand.

When you begin your search, keep in mind that not all real estate agents are realtors. While both are licensed to buy and sell property, only realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors and follow the Realtor’s Code of Ethics. Both real estate agents and realtors are held to the same legal standards, but realtors hold themselves to a higher professional standard. As you meet with prospective real estate agents, ask them if they are realtors.

You can track neighborhood signs, visit open houses, and search listings online, but the best way to find an exceptional realtor is through word-of-mouth. While many real estate agents use print advertising to sell homes and promote themselves, most stay in business because of referrals from satisfied customers. Be wary of websites that promote some realtors over others—many of these professionals have paid a fee to be listed at the top.

If you are selling a property, ask your neighbors which realtor they used. If you’re buying, ask coworkers, friends, and family for referrals. The most successful realtors are those who make customer satisfaction their number one priority. You can also ask other local realtors for a referral. Most will be happy to point you toward a colleague, especially if they don’t specialize in the service you need or the area you’re interested in.

As Waterloo’s leading realtor, JoAnn Meier at RE/MAX First Choice has worked with residential and commercial customers in the area since 1984. She has extensive knowledge of Waterloo’s real estate market and a commitment to helping clients realize their dreams. Scouring listings can be overwhelming, but JoAnn knows what to look for and where to find your next home. Visit her website to browse current listings, or make an appointment with her team by calling (618) 939-600.