How to Find an Agent

Question

I've read various BiggerPockets books on how to find an agent for your investment team (Core Four) when you are starting out.  However, it is not clear whether you should choose one agent and be loyal to them as you gain knowledge from them and referrals to other professionals (they only get paid if you buy something through them), or try to establish relationships with a few agents and just see how they interact with you and who ends up being the best fit over time.

Bradley Buxton · Answer

@Bruce Marshall

To save time interview agents then you don't waste your time or theirs by testing them out. Buying real estate is a business investment. Build your team like your business. Interview agents and if they can provide you the value you need, the communication style that works for you, and give you the time needed to be confident in a transaction then you have found a good "employee".

Are they an investor themselves? This gives some experience that can be valuable. Are they more interested in your success or their investments? Did they get lucky with a few deals? Are they still buying? While it's important I would not put it as the top priority.
If an agent is also an investor there are likely conflicts of interests, if there is a great deal why would they send it to you? Some will say "they are not buying the same deals" if it's a good deal and money to be made it's everyone's deal. You can get great advice and guidance from agents that are not investors themselves. Not every coach in the NFL played in the NFL, 70% of coaches in the NFL never played in the league.

One of the biggest factors in finding a great real estate agent? Communication and commitment to your investment success. That means asking questions, giving honest feedback, and being upfront about your expectations.

Don't be afraid to ask for advice or voice concerns—great agents want that dialogue. And if the relationship isn't working out, let them know. Agents are people, not mindless zombies (even if the industry can feel that way sometimes!).

Clear, honest communication goes a long way in building a productive, profitable partnership.

Bruce Marshall · Answer

Thanks for the feedback Ryan. I've started to put together a list of potential agents to interview, but it seems like working with someone who is an investor themselves is a high priority.

Ryan Spath · Answer

@Bruce Marshall

Great question! I would recommend starting by building relationships with a few agents to see which one aligns best with your goals. Once you've established that connection, you can choose the agent who feels like the best fit and move forward with them.

Keep in mind that most agents won’t fully commit to working with you until you’ve committed to them. This means that they typically won’t send you deals, analyze properties, or offer more extensive support until there’s a formal representation agreement in place.

When you're "interviewing" agents, be clear about your objectives, your preferred approach, and the timeline you have in mind. An agent who is familiar with the market you’re looking to invest in will be able to offer guidance on whether your goals are achievable or not, based on their knowledge of the local market.

One important consideration: Does the agent you're thinking about working with invest in real estate themselves? This is crucial. Think of it this way—if your doctor isn’t in good shape, would you take advice on fitness from them? Similarly, if your agent doesn't actively invest, can they truly offer valuable guidance on the investing process?

Ultimately, choosing an agent who is both knowledgeable and experienced in the market—and ideally invests themselves—will give you the best chance at success.

Min Zhang · Answer

I’ve seen many new investors struggle with when they’re building out their Core Four team. The best approach starting out is to interview a couple of agents and get a feel for how they work specifically with investors. Not every agent is investor-friendly, and you’ll notice that quickly once you start asking about deal analysis, off-market opportunities, or cap rates.

That said, once you find someone who really aligns with your goals and you feel confident in their expertise, I do recommend building a strong relationship and being loyal to that agent. Agents often go the extra mile for their investor clients when there’s mutual trust and consistency. Investor focused agents share pocket listings and refers solid lenders, contractors, and property managers. Best of luck on your journey and hoping you find the right one for you Bruce!

Ryan Spath · Answer

@Bruce Marshall You're very welcome, and I’m glad the feedback was helpful! It’s great to hear that you’re putting together a list of potential agents to interview—being thorough in your search is key. I completely understand why working with an agent who is also an investor might be a high priority for you, as their experience and perspective can bring valuable insights to the table. It’s definitely worth exploring this option. Wishing you the best of luck with your interviews, and I'm confident you'll find the right fit for your needs! Keep up the great work!

Bradley Buxton · Answer

You wouldn't necessarily need a different agent for 5+ units. A residential agent in Nevada can sell multifamily "commercial" units. I've sold 10+ units, single family investment properties, luxury homes. Depending on the state there might different rules for residential agents to sell commercial properties. Commercial agents generally don't sell under 4 units. Ideally you can find an agent that has experience with both 1-4 and 5+

Bruce Marshall · Answer

Min,

Thanks for the feedback. I do want to be loyal to the agent, because the relationship has to be beneficial to both of us. I think the key will be doing thorough interviews in order to find the agent that is the right fit.

Ryan Spath · Answer

While it's true that conflicts of interest can arise if an agent is also an investor, it doesn't automatically mean that all agents with such dual roles are acting with ulterior motives. The key lies in their professionalism and transparency. Many agents who are also investors have experience and insights that can benefit their clients. They're not necessarily trying to "keep the deal" for themselves but can actually offer valuable perspectives from both sides of the table.

The fact that an agent is also an investor can allow them to identify opportunities that others might overlook, providing clients with unique access to high-potential deals. And, while some may argue that "if it’s a good deal, it’s everyone’s deal," this is often true, but it doesn't preclude the agent from still seeking the best possible outcome for their clients.

The comparison with NFL coaches is a great analogy: just because a coach didn’t play in the league doesn’t mean they lack the expertise to guide players and teams to success. Similarly, agents who are not investors themselves can still provide excellent guidance. It’s about the knowledge, skill, and ability to navigate complex deals, not just having firsthand experience in every aspect.

At the end of the day, the best agents—whether they are investors or not—are those who prioritize their clients' best interests, communicate transparently, and demonstrate proven expertise.

Bruce Marshall · Answer

Bradley,

Thank you. Your point on the broker being an investor themselves is well-taken. I do think I'd want to be sure they are not actively competing with me. But if someone has actually invested themselves, I think it gives them more credibility, but if not, wouldn't be a disqualifier.

I like your idea of interviewing agents and then selecting one to be part of my Core Four. I suppose if it doesn't work out, I can always move on. But I like the idea of them making a commitment to me, and me making a commitment to them. I would be using them for advice, not just to be a transaction manager.

If I found a "commercial" property (5 units or above) that a commercial broker doesn't offer a split commission, could I have a separate agreement to compensate my agent?

How to Find an Agent

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