Either kind of agent can serve you well, so do not over-index on the self-styled neighborhood expert. Some agents market themselves heavily as the local specialist without being the sharpest at selling homes. What matters more is genuine expertise and steady communication, and plenty of that comes from an agent who works a broader area and closes real volume. A high transaction count is a useful signal, because an agent doing deals regularly stays current on pricing, contracts, and how to negotiate when a home needs a price reduction. Forced to choose between a brand-new local agent and a well-respected producer from farther out, we would usually lean toward the experienced one, since newer agents often lack both current market feel and the attention to detail that comes from reps. That said, fit counts. If you do not click with someone, it is hard to trust them through a stressful transaction. A less experienced agent you trust can handle a straightforward deal fine, so ask whether they have a mentor to lean on for pricing and strategy. Experience earns its keep when things get complicated. To screen: - Start with a referral from someone you trust, then talk to at least two agents and compare. - Read Google and Zillow reviews (genuine ones are hard to fake) and ask to speak with past clients. - Steer away from part-time or semi-retired agents. For an unfamiliar or long-distance market this matters even more, and we are glad to connect you with an agent from our vetted network whom we would trust to represent us personally.