How to choose a real estate agent
By the Leia maakler editorial team · Last updated: May 2026
The right agent is often the single most important decision in a successful sale. Here's how to choose deliberately.
In short
- Ask 2–3 agents for a proposal and compare the valuation, marketing plan and commission.
- Look at local activity — who actually sells in the area — not advertising.
- Read the contract: commission, exclusivity and term.
Look at local experience, not just fame
What matters most isn't how big the agency is or how much the agent advertises, but how well they know your specific area. A local agent knows the realistic price, the buyer profile, and what sells in that area.
A good starting point is to look at who actually sells the most properties in your area — that is shown by the number of active listings, not advertising. The Estonian market overview gives the wider picture too.
Ask several agents for a proposal
Don't settle for the first offer. Contact two or three agents and compare their approach, valuation and terms.
- What is your estimate of my home's market value and what is it based on?
- How and where will you market the property?
- How large is the commission and what does it include?
- Is the contract exclusive and how long is the term?
Pay attention to the marketing plan
A good agent doesn't just put up a listing. Ask how they prepare the home for sale: quality photos, a floor plan, a proper description, the right portals and a network of buyers.
Read the contract carefully
Before signing, make sure you understand the commission, the contract term and what happens if you want to end it. An exclusive contract can be reasonable, but the term should be reasonable too.
Red flags to watch for
A few signs suggest an agent may not be acting in your interest:
- Promises a much higher price than others to win the listing — then pressures you to cut it later.
- Can't explain how they reached the price or show comparable properties.
- Pushes a long exclusive contract with no clear marketing plan.
- Has few active listings in your area — check this on the area page.
Frequently asked questions
- How many agents should I talk to before choosing?
- We recommend asking at least two or three agents for a proposal so you can compare the valuation, marketing plan and commission.
- Is a more expensive agent better?
- Not necessarily. Local experience, realistic pricing and good marketing matter more. Compare the substance of the offers, not just the fee.
Find the best agents in your area — enter the property address and contact them if you wish.
Read also
- How to sell an apartment in Estonia
- Selling an apartment: with an agent or yourself?
- The cost of selling an apartment
- What to check when buying an apartment in Estonia
- How to negotiate the property price in Estonia
- First-time home buyer's guide in Estonia
- Getting ready for a mortgage in Estonia
- How to value your home
- What is a property valuation report (hindamisakt) and when do you need one
- How to rent out an apartment in Estonia
- The rental agreement in Estonia — what it must contain
- Tenant not paying rent — what to do in Estonia
- Rent it out or sell?
By the Leia maakler editorial team · Last updated: May 2026. This is general information, not legal or tax advice; for exact terms rely on your bank, notary and official sources.