To find a reputable real estate agent in Calgary, confirm they are licensed with the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA), read recent reviews from verified clients, and interview at least two agents about their pricing plan, marketing and communication. A good agent will answer plainly and won't pressure you. Here's how to check each point.
1. Verify their licence
Alberta real estate professionals must be licensed through RECA, and you can look up any licensee using the RECA online licence search. Check that the licence is current and that the agent works under a registered brokerage.
2. Read reviews, and check where they come from
Look at Google reviews and at platforms that verify reviews against real transactions, such as RankMyAgent. Pay attention to recency and specifics. Reviews that mention communication, pricing advice and how problems were handled tell you more than "great agent!" Our team is rated 5.0 across more than 80 Google reviews, and you can read more on our testimonials page.
3. Check their local experience
Calgary neighbourhoods behave differently. Ask how many homes the agent has sold in yours, and ask for recent examples. Our team works in Elbow Park, Rideau Park, Roxboro, Upper Mount Royal, Altadore, Garrison Woods and Lakeview, among others.
4. Ask how they'll price and market your home
A reputable agent explains how they arrived at a price using comparable sales, and describes their marketing in detail: photography, listing presentation, staging and online exposure. If staging is part of the plan, ask whether it is included or billed separately. At Derrick Newman Group, a staging consultation is included with every listing. See how our staging works.
5. Understand the fees and the agreement
Ask for the commission structure, what it covers, and any other costs, in writing. Read the listing agreement before signing, including how long it lasts and how it can be ended.
6. Notice how they communicate
How quickly does the agent reply before you've hired them? That is usually how they will behave once you have.
Red flags
Pressure to sign immediately
A price suggestion with no comparable sales behind it
Vague answers about fees
No verifiable licence or reviews
Questions to ask in the interview
How many homes have you sold in my area this year?
What will you do in the first two weeks of my listing?
How often will I hear from you, and how?
What does your fee include?
Thinking of selling in Calgary? We'd be glad to talk through your plans with no obligation. Book a free consultation. You may also like Should You Choose a Calgary Realtor Who Offers Staging?
