Choose a St. Louis real estate agent by interviewing at least two or three, asking each for a written plan, recent local sales in your neighborhood, how they communicate, and exactly what is included for the fee. Pick the one whose plan, local knowledge and communication fit your goals, not the one who promises the highest price.
Why the choice matters more than ever
Most people who buy or sell still use an agent. According to the National Association of REALTORS 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, about 9 in 10 sellers worked with an agent (NAR via NowBam). Many people also hire the first agent they talk to (NowBam). A short interview process protects you from choosing on convenience alone.
St. Louis is a neighborhood by neighborhood market. In September 2026, homes in St. Louis City and County averaged 31 days on market and inventory was up 15.4% from a year earlier (St. Louis REALTORS, September 2026 report). When buyers have more choices, the plan your agent builds matters more.
Step 1: Decide what you need
Write down your goal in one sentence: "Sell by spring and net enough for our next down payment," or "Buy a 3 bedroom near work under $350,000." Your goal is the yardstick for every interview.
Step 2: Find two or three candidates
Good sources are referrals from people you trust, agents who sold homes on your street, and online reviews. Look at Google and Zillow reviews for specifics, not just stars.
Step 3: Ask for a written plan
A strong agent can show you, in writing, how they will price, prepare, market and negotiate. For sellers, that should include a net sheet (what you take home), a prep list with costs, and a timeline. For buyers, it should include a lender plan, a search plan and an offer strategy.
Step 4: Check local proof
Ask for recent sales or purchases near you and what they learned from them. St. Louis County cities and the City of St. Louis have different occupancy inspection rules, and an agent who knows them can save you weeks.
Step 5: Ask how they communicate
How often will you hear from them? By text, call or email? Who answers when they are busy? Weekly written updates are a reasonable expectation.
Step 6: Understand the fee and the agreement
Commissions are not set by law and are negotiable. Ask what is included, how long the agreement lasts, and how you can end it if it is not working. Read the agreement before you sign.
Step 7: Trust the fit
You will make big decisions with this person. Choose someone who explains things clearly, tells you the hard truths kindly, and puts your goal first.
Red flags
- A price far above every other agent with no data behind it
- Pressure to sign today
- Vague answers about marketing or communication
- No written plan
How I work
I start every client with a written plan, a net sheet and a timeline, then send weekly updates until closing. You always know where things stand. See how I list homes or request your Clear Path Plan.
Common mistakes when choosing an agent
- Hiring the first agent you meet. One conversation does not give you anything to compare.
- Choosing on list price alone. A high suggested price can win the listing and then cost you weeks on market and a price cut later.
- Skipping the agreement details. Know the term, the fee, what is included and how to end the agreement.
- Ignoring communication style. If you want texts and the agent prefers weekly emails, say so now.
- Not checking local experience. Ask what the agent knows about your city's inspection rules and your neighborhood's buyers.
Your next steps
- Write your one-sentence goal and your ideal move date.
- List two or three agents from referrals, reviews and recent nearby sales.
- Send each the same questions from our list of questions to ask a realtor.
- Ask each for a written plan and a net sheet or buyer budget.
- Compare the plans side by side, then choose.
Frequently asked questions
How many real estate agents should I interview?
Two or three is usually enough to compare plans, local knowledge and communication style without slowing you down.
Should I pick the agent who suggests the highest list price?
Not on price alone. Ask each agent to show the recent sales behind their number. An overpriced home can sit and sell for less later.
Are real estate commissions set by law?
No. Commissions are negotiable between you and the agent and are not set by law or by any association.
Can I interview agents before I am ready to move?
Yes. Talking early gives you time to prepare, fix the right things and plan your timeline.
About the author: Stephanie Muhlenfeld, PMP, REALTOR® with LPT Realty. Stephanie helps buyers and sellers across St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin Counties move with a plan, not pressure. (314) 597-7494.
LPT Realty (417) 813-1762