The Clear Path HomeStephanie Muhlenfeld · LPT Realty

St. Louis, MO · Seller and buyer guide

How to choose a realtor in St. Louis.

The best realtor in St. Louis for you isn't always the one with the biggest sign count or the highest suggested price. It's the one with a clear plan for your home and your timeline. Here are the questions that separate the two.

Before you sign

Nine questions to ask every agent you interview.

  1. 01Are you licensed in Missouri?You can confirm any agent's license with the Missouri Division of Professional Registration's online license search.
  2. 02Which sold homes support your price?Ask to see the sold comparisons, not active listings. A price without sold homes behind it is a guess.
  3. 03What exactly happens in the first 7 days?Photos, listing details, online exposure, showings and open houses. Specifics matter more than adjectives.
  4. 04How will you keep me updated?Ask how often, in what format, and what's included: showings, feedback, online views and next steps.
  5. 05What do you charge, and what does it cover?Commissions are negotiable. Get the fee and what it includes in writing before you sign.
  6. 06How long is the agreement, and can I end it?Know the term and what happens if you're not satisfied. A confident agent can explain this plainly.
  7. 07Who will I actually work with?On teams, ask who handles pricing, showings, negotiation and paperwork, and who answers your calls.
  8. 08What would you change if the home doesn't sell fast?A good agent has a plan B before the listing goes live: what they'll look at and when.
  9. 09Can I talk to recent clients?Reviews help, but a quick call with a past seller or buyer tells you even more.

Watch for

Red flags when comparing agents.

  1. The highest price wins the listingA suggested price far above the sold homes can lead to a long time on market and price cuts later.
  2. Vague marketing"We'll put it everywhere" isn't a plan. Ask what, where and when.
  3. No written numbersYou should see an estimate of what you'd walk away with before you list.
  4. Pressure to sign todayA good agent gives you time to compare and decide.

Common questions

Do I need a realtor to sell my house in Missouri?

No. Missouri doesn't require one, and some owners sell on their own. Most sellers hire an agent for pricing, marketing, negotiation and handling the contract and closing details.

Are realtor commissions negotiable in St. Louis?

Yes. Commissions are always negotiable between you and the brokerage. Get the fee and what it covers in writing before you sign.

What's the difference between a realtor and a real estate agent?

A REALTOR® is a licensed agent who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and agrees to its Code of Ethics.

How many agents should I interview?

Two or three is usually enough to compare pricing logic, marketing plans and communication style.

Stephanie Muhlenfeld

Stephanie Muhlenfeld, PMP, REALTOR®St. Louis REALTOR® with LPT Realty

Questions about your situation? Text me and I'll answer straight, with no pressure.

Text meMy home's numbers

Or call (314) 597-7494.

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Stephanie Muhlenfeld, LPT Realty, LLC. Missouri license 2026031155. If your property is currently listed with another broker, this is not a solicitation.