Finding the right real estate agent in Ottawa isn’t as simple as just picking someone with a license. You want a professional who understands your needs, can effectively advocate for them, and has the experience to guide you through this dynamic market.
A good fit means an agent understands your goals, communicates clearly, and has the experience to back it up. If you’re a first-time buyer, your situation will be very different than someone looking to invest. Ottawa’s real estate market continues to evolve with indicators pointing toward a market that’s becoming more balanced and measured, but there’s nuance.
This means buyers and sellers alike need trusted guidance. With decades of combined real estate experience and appraisal accreditation, Top Ottawa Homes brings education and accuracy that lead to better numbers and smarter decisions. But finding the right agent and getting the right answers starts with asking the right questions!
What Are You Going to Ask?
First off, you’ll probably want to start by understanding their background and how they work. Why work with someone that you wouldn’t work well with, right? Agents should be willing to provide you with client references, testimonials, and answers. Answers to things like whether they’re a full- or part-time agent, what their commission rate includes, and any additional costs to be aware of.
Next, you’ll want to get specific about your goals. Are you buying your first home? Selling a property? Looking for a long-term investment? The right agent will tailor a strategy for your situation. Ask what experience the agent has with clients in similar situations. What did they do and what were the outcomes?
Beyond the questions, pay attention to how the agent answers. Do they offer clear responses with examples? Do they listen and try to understand you? Or are they simply trying to sell themselves?
For Buyers…
Ottawa’s market isn’t behaving like it used to. With affordability shifting and more listings hitting the market, the pandemic-induced pressure to act fast has eased off. But that doesn’t mean buyers should be complacent, and your goal should NEVER be to time the market perfectly… it doesn’t work like that. What we can do is have everything ready for when the right opportunity comes.
This is where the dual role of agent and appraiser is truly beneficial. We combine our in-depth market knowledge to find you the best options with the ability to properly evaluate their quality, identify any potential issues, and better inform your offer. Situations will be different if you’re looking at an older Centretown property that needs some fixing versus a newly built detached home in Barrhaven. In either case, we provide you with the insight you need to make the right decisions.
If you’re looking to buy, make sure to ask agents you’re interviewing things like:
- What strategies do you use to help clients in my situation navigate the current market?
- How do you stay informed about neighbourhood trends and pricing?
- Have there been any notable recent transactions done in areas I’m interested in?
- How do you help buyers prepare financially and strategically before making an offer?
For Sellers…
Selling is just as personal as buying. Some might argue it’s even harder given all the memories and ties people have to a home they’ve lived in. In a dynamic and changing market like the current one, patience is desirable because it might not always be the best time to list. A good agent will be honest about that if it’s the case for you. Between interest rate debates and a slower sales pace, strategy matters more than ever.
In a more dynamic market, sellers need to focus on standing out. When interviewing agents, you’ll want to ask questions like:
- What’s your marketing strategy for selling homes, in general and for homes like this?
- How do you determine the right listing price and any future adjustments given the market?
- What’s your average days-on-market, sales-to-list price ratio, and other comparable stats?
- What staging or pre-listing improvements would you recommend and why?
With Top Ottawa Homes, sellers get more than glossy brochures. Combining honest advice with a data-driven strategy, you get the confidence of a listing price reflective of a professional valuation… not a gut feeling. Our open and transparent approach gets you a game plan that’s aligned with your goals.
Communication is EVERYTHING
Your agent’s responsiveness and communication style matter as much as their resume. Are you someone who prefers texts, calls, or emails? Be upfront about your communication, desire for check-ins, and what will make you feel best. A good agent will adjust to how you like to work.
At Top Ottawa Homes, Dawn and Sheldon operate as a tandem team. What does this mean for you? Better coverage, shared expertise, and more personalized service. Clients aren’t handed off to assistants, they‘re listened to and understood. This level of support is particularly valuable when timelines shift or unexpected issues pop up, which is all too common in real estate!
And remember, it’s okay to say no. Not every agent will be a good fit, let alone the right fit, and that’s okay. You want to work with someone you want to work with! If an agent isn’t asking the right questions or their answers don’t feel aligned with your needs, it’s better to keep looking. Trust your gut and stick with someone who makes you feel confident, informed, and supported.
An Agent AND an Advocate
The right real estate agent is more than just a guide, they’re also your advocate. In a market like Ottawa’s, you need more than generic advice. You need accurate numbers, proven strategies, and a team that puts education and honesty first. That way, regardless of who you choose and what happens, you’re in a better and more informed position to make the right move.
That’s what you get with Top Ottawa Homes: no hype or pressure tactics, just combined experience, local market knowledge, and appraisal expertise. You receive genuine answers and a customized strategy that reflects your current needs and future goals.
If you’re looking to buy or sell and want the facts without the fluff, contact us today. A better experience starts with the right conversation. Let’s chat!
