How to Choose a Real Estate Agent in Spokane

By Chelsea McFarlandCo-Founder, McFarland Prey Real Estate · Broker, Prime Real Estate Group

The Agent Matters More Than Most People Think

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial moves you'll make, and the agent you choose shapes how it goes. A good agent prices well, negotiates hard, spots problems early and keeps the deal from falling apart. A poor fit can cost you money, time and a lot of sleep.

I've been licensed in Spokane since 2016, and I'll be honest: I'm not the right agent for everyone. The goal is to find the one who's right for you.

Where to Start

• Ask people you trust. Friends, family and coworkers who recently bought or sold here are the best first source.
• Read reviews, then read them closely. Look for specifics, not just stars. Did the agent communicate well? Solve a problem? Stay calm under pressure?
• Look at their recent sales. Do they work in your area and your price range? Do they sell homes like yours?

Interview at Least Two or Three

Most good agents are happy to meet before you commit. Treat it like a job interview, because it is one. You're looking for someone you trust, who explains things clearly and who listens more than they talk.

My first meeting with a new client is mostly listening: your timeline, your must-haves and what worries you. With seniors and families settling an estate, I'm happy to meet at my office or in your home and bring a printed plan we can walk through together.

Questions to Ask Every Agent

1. How long have you been selling homes in Spokane, and is this your full-time job?
2. How many homes like mine have you sold recently?
3. Will I be working with you, or with someone else on your team?
4. How and how often will you keep me updated?
5. How would you price my home, or what would you offer on homes I like, and why?
6. What's your marketing plan? (for sellers)
7. What do you charge, and what's included?
8. Can I talk to a few of your past clients?

Red Flags to Watch For

• The highest price wins the listing. Some agents quote a big number to get your signature, then push price cuts later. Ask how they got their number.
• Slow or vague communication. If they're hard to reach before you hire them, it won't get better after.
• Pressure to sign today. A good agent gives you time to decide.
• No local knowledge. Spokane neighborhoods vary a lot, block to block. Your agent should know them.
• Every answer is "don't worry about it." You should leave every conversation understanding more, not less.

My Honest Take

More than anything, find an agent you feel comfortable around and trust: someone you can be yourself with, and whose track record gives you confidence they'll get the job done. Read the reviews, but also meet them. Grab coffee or chat on the phone and make sure you feel good about it. This person is going to be all up in your business: your finances, your goals and your life. Pick someone you'd trust to tell you something you don't want to hear.

In 2025, I was #1 in sales volume at Prime Real Estate Group and received its Client Hero Award. But the reviews below say more about how I work than any award.

"I called Chelsea because I was so frustrated with realtors that I was considering getting my realtors license... Thank God I didn't, she's an amazing realtor! She's low pressure, efficient, knowledgeable and most importantly a shrewd negotiator with strong connections."

Jamie C., Google review

"We interviewed half a dozen agents and Chelsea was the only one who recommended taking all the steps to get the best price."

Jeanna S., Redfin review

Frequently Asked Questions

How many agents should I interview?

Two or three is usually enough to compare experience, communication style and pricing advice.

What should I ask a real estate agent before hiring them?

Ask about their local experience, recent sales like yours, who you'll actually work with, how they communicate, how they'd price or make offers, and what they charge.

What are red flags when choosing a realtor?

Watch for agents who quote an unrealistically high price, are hard to reach, pressure you to sign right away, or don't know your neighborhood.

Looking for an Agent in Spokane?

I'm happy to meet, answer your questions and let you decide if we're a good fit, with no pressure.

Call or text Chelsea: 509.565.1581
Email: chelsea@mcfarlandprey.com
Office: 1402 S Grand Blvd, Suite 201, Spokane, WA 99203