How to Choose a Reliable and Trustworthy Real Estate Agent
- Stuart Chng
- Dec 19, 2025
- 4 min read
Buying or selling a property can be both exciting and stressful at the same time.
Even for experienced homeowners, property transactions can feel overwhelming. After all, real estate is one of the largest financial commitments most people will ever make. In recent years, the process has also become more complex due to tighter regulations and changing government policies.
Although DIY platforms and online tools are now widely available, many buyers and sellers still choose to work with a real estate agent. A good agent helps identify blind spots, offers professional guidance, and ensures the entire process runs as smoothly as possible.
A capable and experienced real estate agent does more than just market your property. They negotiate effectively, understand current market conditions, tap into strong professional networks, and act as both an advisor and coordinator throughout the transaction. Most importantly, they listen to your needs and help you make informed decisions.
The good news for consumers is that there is no shortage of agents to choose from. According to the Council of Estate Agencies (CEA), the number of registered real estate agents has continued to grow since the COVID period.
However, this large pool also creates a challenge:
How do you identify the right agent for your needs?
What truly separates an excellent agent from an average one?
The following tips will help you narrow down your options and make your next property transaction a more confident and positive experience.
1. Start by verifying the agent’s CEA licence
Don’t be swayed by sharp suits, flashy badges, or photos of awards.
Not everyone calling themselves a property agent is authorised to practise. Always verify that the agent is officially registered with the CEA. You can easily do this via the CEA website or the CEA@SG mobile app to confirm their registration status and ensure they are not under suspension or disciplinary action.
This check also allows you to see whether the agent has received any awards or completed relevant transactions, such as HDB resale deals, within the past 24 months.
Treat this as the essential first step in identifying a legitimate and credible agent.
2. Do a background check online
Your agent will be advising you on pricing, marketing strategies, financial considerations, risks, and transaction costs. It is crucial to work with someone you trust and who prioritises guidance over pressure.
Fortunately, we live in a digital age where information is easily accessible. Many agents actively maintain websites or social media profiles where they share insights and client testimonials. Take some time to review their content and past work.
That said, don’t rely solely on online reviews. Where possible, verify what you read by speaking directly with the agent or requesting referrals.
A professional agent will be open to questions and willing to spend time helping you feel comfortable before committing.
3. Meet the agent in person to assess compatibility
Chemistry matters more than many people realise.
You will likely spend weeks or even months discussing plans, reviewing options, and making important decisions together. Meeting the agent face-to-face allows you to evaluate their communication style, experience, and whether you feel at ease working with them.
Clear communication is critical, especially since a typical property transaction can take anywhere from three to six months. Your agent should be responsive, patient, and able to explain details clearly without rushing or applying pressure.
If you feel uncomfortable or pressured at any point, it may be a sign that the agent is not the right fit. Interviewing at least two or three agents can help you compare and choose someone whose personality, expertise, and approach align with yours.
4. Ensure the agent puts your interests first
Many buyers and sellers know what they want, but not always what they truly need.
For instance, a quiet neighbourhood may sound appealing until transport convenience becomes an issue for the household. A spacious garden may seem attractive until you realise that indoor living space is more important for a growing family.
An experienced agent helps you think through these trade-offs and asks the right questions to clarify your priorities. The best agents act like trusted advisors—guiding you toward decisions that support your long-term lifestyle and financial goals, not just short-term preferences.
5. Look for consistent professionalism
Rejections and setbacks are common in real estate. A strong agent remains professional, calm, and focused even after multiple challenges.
Whether dealing with difficult counterparties or negotiating unfavourable offers, your agent should always protect your interests without letting emotions interfere.
Professionalism also shows up in simple but important habits—being punctual, keeping promises, sharing relevant market updates, and providing regular progress reports.
These small behaviours often make a big difference in the overall experience.
6. Check the agency the agent is associated with
Agents who are part of established real estate agencies often have access to better tools, training, and support systems.
Reputable agencies in Singapore invest heavily in technology, market research, and continuous training to keep their agents sharp and client-focused. Strong mentorship and structured guidance play a major role in shaping successful and ethical real estate professionals.
Whether you are looking for a dependable agent to work with, or exploring opportunities to join a reputable agency yourself, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to share more.
Stuart Chng, Executive Group District Director at Huttons, is a renowned leader and personality in the real estate industry.
He adores music and can play a few instruments decently without upsetting his neighbours. When not doing so, he enjoys pillow fighting with his son and coming up with silly puns which barely amuses his wife.
Professionally, he is a licensed real estate agent, an avid stocks, options and real estate investor, business owner, team leader, speaker and columnist for several property newsletters and blogs and is often quoted in media interviews on 938FM, Channel 8, PropertyReport, PropertyGuru and other publications.
Throughout his career, he has helped many clients grow their wealth through selecting great property investments and managing their portfolios actively. Read his clients' reviews here.
Stuart has also coached many top million dollar producing agents from top real estate agencies in Singapore. Read his agents' reviews here.
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