How to Find a Real Estate Agent You Can Trust in London, Ontario

Anyone can say they are a good agent. What you need is a way to check. This guide gives you a short process that works with any agent, including us.

1. Check the RECO register

The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) regulates agents and brokerages under the Trust in Real Estate Services Act (TRESA). Before you sign anything, search the public register on reco.on.ca to confirm the person is registered and which brokerage they work for. Check that the name on the register matches the name on any agreement you are asked to sign.

2. Understand what you are being asked to sign

RECO Bulletin 2.3 on representation agreements says a representation agreement can be written, oral or implied, and that buyer agreements must clearly set out:

• the effective date and expiry date (with the expiry on the first page, initialled by the client),
• how the agent’s remuneration is determined,
• the services and their scope,
• how the agreement can be terminated, and
• any holdover period.

Under RECO’s rules an agent either represents you as a client or you are self-represented; “customer” relationships are not permitted, and agreements that exclude representation are prohibited. Read the document, ask what each clause means, and ask for time if you need it. If something is unclear, you can have a lawyer read it.

3. Know what multiple representation means

Sometimes one brokerage ends up acting for both sides of a deal. RECO describes this as multiple representation. It requires written disclosure and each client’s written consent. The representative must be impartial and cannot advise either client on price or terms. You have the right to refuse. Ask any agent upfront how they handle this situation. A clear, calm answer is a good sign. See RECO’s explanation.

4. Questions worth asking

• How long have you been working in the area I am interested in, and which neighbourhoods do you know best?
• How many buyers or sellers are you working with right now, and who will actually answer my calls?
• How will we communicate, and how quickly will you reply?
• What do your recent listings look like, and can I see the marketing?
• How do you determine a listing price? Please show me the comparables.
• What is the commission or fee, what does it cover, and what happens if I end the agreement early?
• How do you handle a situation where you represent both sides?
• Can I speak with a past client?

5. Read reviews critically

Reviews are useful but easy to over-read. When you look at them:

• Look for specifics (what the agent did) rather than general praise.
• Check the dates and whether there are recent ones.
• Look at the platform. Reviews on a team’s own site are curated.
• Be wary of any claim that cannot be verified, such as “top-rated” or “number one”, without a named, checkable source and period.
• A small number of poor reviews, handled professionally, tells you more than a perfect score.

We cover more on this in our guide to comparing top-rated London REALTORS®.

6. Trust your read of the conversation

A trustworthy agent explains rather than pressures, gives you realistic ranges rather than promises, and is comfortable with you asking questions or taking time. If someone guarantees a price or a result, be cautious.

Where to start

If you are early in the process, our buyer guide outlines the steps. When you are ready to talk, you can contact us, and we are glad to answer any of the questions above.