How to Choose a Real Estate Agent in Ontario: Questions to Ask

To choose a real estate agent in Ontario, confirm they’re registered with RECO, look for recent experience with your type of home and area, interview two or three candidates and read the representation agreement carefully before signing. The best fit is someone who communicates clearly, knows local prices and has a plan for your goals. Here’s how to compare agents with confidence.

Step 1: Confirm registration with RECO

The Real Estate Council of Ontario regulates real estate agents and brokerages in the province. Before you work with anyone, search their name on RECO’s public register. It shows whether they’re registered, which brokerage they work for and any disciplinary history.

Under Ontario’s current rules, agents must also give you RECO’s information guide and put your working relationship in a written agreement. That agreement explains the services, the length of the relationship and how the agent will be paid.

Step 2: Look for the right kind of experience

An agent who sells condos downtown may not be the best fit for a raised bungalow in Brampton. Look for:

• Local knowledge. They know recent sale prices, streets and school areas in your target neighbourhoods.
• Property-type experience. Bungalows have their own issues, like basement units, permits, large lots and builder interest.
• Market experience. They’ve worked in both busy and slower markets and can adjust strategy.
• A clear process. They can explain each step from first meeting to closing.

Step 3: Interview two or three agents

Ask each agent the same questions, so you can compare answers fairly.

Question	What a good answer sounds like
How many homes like mine have you helped buy or sell recently?	Specific examples in your area and price range
How do you decide on a price or an offer?	Recent comparable sales, not guesses
How will we communicate, and how often?	A clear plan that matches your preferences
Do you work alone or with a team?	Honest detail on who you’ll deal with day to day
How are you paid, and what does the agreement say?	A plain explanation without pressure
Can I speak to a past client?	Yes, with references or reviews to share

Extra questions for sellers

• What’s your marketing plan, including photos, floor plans and virtual tours?
• Would you recommend an offer date or reviewing offers any time? Why?
• What should I fix or skip before listing?

Extra questions for buyers

• How do you find homes before they’re widely seen?
• How do you handle multiple-offer situations?
• Which lawyers, inspectors and mortgage agents do you recommend, and why?

Step 4: Understand how commission works

Commission is negotiable in Ontario, and it’s set out in your agreement. Sellers usually pay their listing brokerage, which often shares part of it with the buyer’s brokerage. Buyers should read what their agreement says if the seller’s offer to the buyer’s agent is lower than the agreed amount.

Focus on value, not just the lowest rate. An agent who prices well and negotiates firmly can make a bigger difference to your result than a small change in commission. Read our explainer on how real estate commission works.

Step 5: Check reviews and references

Online reviews are a useful start, but read them for detail rather than star counts. Look for comments about communication, honesty and how the agent handled problems, not just “great experience.”

Then ask for one or two past clients you can call. Good questions for references include:

• Did the agent’s price advice turn out to be accurate?
• How quickly did they respond, especially near deadlines?
• How did they handle a setback, like a failed condition or low appraisal?
• Would you hire them again?

Red flags to watch for

• A promise of a sale price far above what similar homes sold for
• Pressure to sign a long agreement on the spot
• Vague answers about experience or recent sales
• Slow replies before you’ve even hired them
• Advice to skip a home inspection or lawyer review without explanation
• No registration found on RECO’s public register

An agent who quotes a high price just to win your listing may leave you with a home that sits. Ask to see the comparable sales behind any number.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to sign an agreement with a buyer’s agent?

In Ontario, an agent must put your relationship in writing before representing you. Read the term, services and payment sections carefully, and ask questions before you sign.

Can I use the same agent to buy and sell?

Yes. Many people use one agent for both, which can help coordinate closing dates and timing.

Can I change agents if it’s not working out?

It depends on your agreement. Talk to the agent and their brokerage first, and check the agreement’s terms on ending the relationship.

Should I hire a friend or relative as my agent?

You can, if they’re experienced with your type of home and area. Treat the decision like any other hire, and make sure you’re comfortable giving honest feedback.

The bottom line

The right agent is registered, experienced with homes like yours, clear about fees and honest about price. Interview more than one, ask the same questions and trust the one who backs answers with data.

To see how we work with bungalow buyers and sellers, visit our about page and read client testimonials. Our buyer’s guide and seller’s guide explain each step.