Choosing the right real estate agent can make or break your experienceâwhether youâre buying your first home, selling a longtime residence, or navigating a rental. The process is emotional, financial, and often fast-paced. Thatâs why working with a knowledgeable, trustworthy agent is essential. we hope you will consider us at Five Town Homes & Living. How to choose a realtor is a combination of factors, and we will provide you with tips for choosing a real estate agent.
đŻ Start with Local Expertise
How to pick the right real estate agent starts with someone who know your local areaâits neighborhoods, schools, market trends, and community quirksâoffer a major advantage. They can:
- Price your home accurately based on hyper-local comps, not just city-wide averages.
- Spot red flags in listings or contracts that outsiders might miss.
- Recommend trusted inspectors, attorneys, and contractors who already work in your area.
- Understand buyer behavior in your zip codeâwhat sells, what stalls, and why.
For example, an agent deeply familiar with the Five Towns or Long Beach wonât just know the difference between Hewlett and Woodmereâtheyâll know which blocks are walkable, which buildings have HOA quirks, and which listings are likely to attract bidding wars. We are proud to call the Five Towns our home. As a mother/daughter team you know you will always have backup.
đ§ Interview Multiple Agents
Donât settle for the first name you hear. Treat this like hiring for a key role in your life:
- Ask about their experience, especially in your neighborhood. Having lived here for many years we know just about every street, school and setback.
- Find out if they specialize in buyers, sellers, or rentals.
- Request examples of recent transactions in your area.
- Gauge their communication styleâdo they respond quickly, clearly, and with insight?
đ Check Reviews and Track Records
Use platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, or your local MLS to:
- Compare sales histories and client reviews.
- Look for agents who consistently work in your target area.
- Pay attention to how they handle negative feedbackâgrace and professionalism matter.
đ€ Align on Strategy and Expectations
Before signing anything, make sure you agree on:
- Marketing strategy (photos, open houses, online listings)
- Timeline and communication preferences
- Commission structure and listing terms
How to choose a realtor that is right for you may take more time, but buying a home will likely be the largest investment you ever make!

Joey Frankel, a native of the Five Towns, Long Island with years of real estate experience is a social media expert, who will get your home the maximum exposure it needs. She is also a dual agent for both Manhattan and Long Island. Joey will bring you young professionals who are seeking the suburban lifestyle.
Sandy Carl is a native of the Five Towns Long Island and familiar with the surrounding communities and school districts on Long Island. She brings over 15 years of event sales experience and real estate with a keen eye for design and home renovations.
Frankel/Carl Team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Office: 561-901-9232 |516-342-0056



0 Comments