What Actually Makes a Great Real Estate Agent in Today’s Market
If you are getting ready to buy or sell in Greater Philadelphia or Montgomery County, you have probably noticed there is no shortage of agents to choose from. It can feel like everyone knows “a Realtor,” and the internet is full of lists and rankings. But none of that answers the real question most people have: “How do I choose someone I can trust with one of the biggest decisions of my life.”
This is where I want to be very honest with you about what actually matters—and how I structure my own business to meet those standards.
Skill Matters, But So Does How You Feel Around Them
A great agent in today’s market needs both technical skill and emotional intelligence. The technical side covers things like:
Understanding local market trends and neighborhood nuances.
Pricing strategy, offer writing, and negotiation.
Contract details, timelines, and risk management.
But the emotional side is just as important. You should feel:
Comfortable asking “basic” questions.
Heard when you voice fears and concerns.
Supported instead of pushed or rushed.
If you do not feel safe being honest with your agent, it does not matter how many homes they have sold. You need both competence and connection.
Traits and Behaviors That Truly Matter
From what I see every day in this shifting 2026 market, here are some of the traits and behaviors that genuinely matter when choosing an agent.
Local expertise. Understanding how different neighborhoods, school districts, and micro markets behave—not just knowing the zip code.
Clear communication. Responding promptly, explaining next steps, and not disappearing when the process gets hard.
Honesty, even when it is uncomfortable. Telling you when your price expectations are off or when a house you love has red flags.
Strategic thinking. Knowing how to structure offers, pricing, and timing based on current conditions, not just using the same approach in every market.
Calm under pressure. Keeping their head and yours clear when inspection reports, appraisal issues, or multiple offers appear.
These are the qualities that actually protect you—financially and emotionally.
How to Know What to Look For
Lists of “top agents” can be helpful, but they are not the whole story. When you are interviewing agents, you might consider asking questions like:
“How do you communicate with clients, and how often will I hear from you.”
“Can you walk me through your process from start to finish.”
“How do you handle it when something goes wrong in a transaction.”
“What is your philosophy on pricing and negotiation in this market.”
You can also pay attention to how you feel during the conversation:
Do they listen more than they talk.
Do they answer your questions directly, or dance around them.
Do you feel calmer or more anxious after talking to them.
You are not just hiring someone to unlock doors. You are hiring someone to help you make decisions you will live with for years.
How My Team and I Work
When I talk about what makes a great agent, I hold myself to those same standards. Here is what that looks like in my business as the Team Leader of the Shaina McAndrews Team with eXp Realty.
Process. We have a clear, documented process for both buyers and sellers, from first call to closing. That means you always know where you are in the journey and what comes next.
Communication. I set expectations up front about how and when we will communicate, and I take your preferred style seriously—whether that is text updates, email recaps, phone calls, or a mix.
Education. I explain the “why” behind my recommendations. I want you to understand the options and trade offs so you can decide confidently, not just “trust me” blindly.
Client experience guarantees. I operate with a client first mindset and stand behind the experience I promise. If something feels off to you, I want to talk about it, not sweep it under the rug.
Positioning Myself Without the Sales Pitch
I know it can feel awkward when agents talk about themselves. My intention is not to convince you with flashy claims; it is to show you how I work so you can decide if it aligns with what you want.
If you value:
Straightforward, honest conversations.
A calm, strategic approach in a noisy market.
Someone who respects your timeline instead of pushing their own.
Then there is a good chance we will work well together. If you want a high pressure, “do whatever it takes” style, I am probably not your person—and that is okay. You deserve a fit that matches your personality.
How Do I Choose the Right Realtor?
At the end of the day, choosing the right Realtor comes down to three things.
Competence. Do they clearly understand the market you are in and the type of transaction you need help with.
Character. Do they show up with integrity, honesty, and a client first mindset.
Chemistry. Do you feel like you can be yourself with them and trust them with big, vulnerable conversations.
If any one of those is missing, it is worth continuing your search.
If You Want to See What It Is Like to Work Together
If you are considering hiring an agent and you want to see how it feels to talk through your situation with me, I invite you to schedule a consultation. There is no pressure to commit at the end; it is simply a chance to:
Share your goals and concerns.
Ask any questions you have about the process.
See whether my approach feels like the right fit for you.
You can book a consultation using this link:
https://calendly.com/agentshainamc/greater-philadelphia-home-seller-consultation
A great real estate agent should make you feel more clear, more supported, and more grounded—not more confused or pressured. Whoever you choose, keep that feeling at the center of your decision.
