How to Contact a Real Estate Agent

Reaching out to a real estate agent is a key step when buying or selling a home. A good agent can guide you through the process, provide expert advice, and help you navigate the market with ease. Whether you're a first-time buyer, looking to sell your home, or searching for investment opportunities, knowing how to contact the right real estate agent is essential. From online searches and referrals to local recommendations, there are many ways to connect with a qualified professional. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best methods to find and contact a real estate agent that fits your needs.

1. Call or text a real estate agent 

Reaching out by phone — whether via call or text — is one of the fastest ways to communicate with an agent. This method is perfect when you're ready to have a direct, personalized conversation early in the process. Many agents are accustomed to receiving calls and texts and will appreciate your initiative.

When to call or text an agent

Agents often have showings and client meetings during weekday mornings and weekends, so aim to call during mid-afternoon weekdays for a higher chance of getting through directly. Texting is more flexible and can be done outside of typical business hours.

How to contact an agent by phone

Being clear and direct in your communication shows you value their time and are serious about moving forward.

Calling a real estate agent

Texting a real estate agent

2. Email a real estate agent 

Email is ideal if you’re conducting initial research or have more detailed questions or needs. This method allows you to share important details upfront and gives the agent time to respond thoughtfully.

When to email an agent

Email anytime, but anticipate responses during standard business hours. Follow up if you haven’t heard back within 2-3 business days. 

How to email an agent

Include a brief introduction (your name and situation) in your email, along with why you’re reaching out. Are you buying, selling or exploring your options? If you have specific questions or details about your needs, include them in your introduction email to provide context — such as when you plan to sell or whether you’re pre-approved for a specific loan amount.

Be sure to include your contact information and availability at the end of the email.

3. Use online real estate websites

Real estate websites often have agent directories that make it easy to find and get in touch with agents online. Thirty-six percent of sellers said in a 2024 Zillow survey that they found their agent online. Once you're ready to connect, most websites include an online form or provide contact information for getting in touch. Real estate websites are a great option for initial inquiries if you’re just starting the process of buying a house or selling one.

When to find an agent online

Since online requests can sometimes take longer depending on the agent's availability, use this method for less urgent inquiries. At Zillow, our representatives can connect you with a local Premier Agent as soon as you're ready. All you need to do is select "connect with a local agent" and then answer a few questions to find a match.

How to contact an agent online

Be specific about what services you’re looking for to ensure the right agent contacts you. Use the directory to read reviews and learn more about an agent’s specialization before reaching out. Directories may also provide customer ratings and recent sales to help you choose the right agent for you.

4. Attend open houses 

Open houses are a great way to meet real estate agents in person without the pressure of formal communication. If you’re a buyer interested in the property, you can get your initial questions answered by the listing agent. If you’re a seller, it’s an excellent opportunity to see what’s involved in the selling process and network with the listing agent. 

When to contact an agent at an open house

As a buyer, you should contact an agent at an open house if you have specific questions about the property, such as its price, features, or recent updates. It’s also a good time to ask about the neighborhood, nearby amenities, or the seller’s timeline. If you’re interested in making an offer, the agent can guide you through the next steps.

As a seller, you may learn more about the listing agent at an open house and can even get their contact information or ask them questions about their availability. 

How to contact an agent at an open house

For sellers:
While sellers typically don’t stay during the open house, briefly meeting the listing agent beforehand or following up afterward can be valuable. It’s a good chance to hear initial buyer feedback and see how your agent is presenting the home.

For buyers:
Open houses are a great time to ask the listing agent questions about the home, the seller’s timeline, or the offer process. Even if you have your own agent, being respectful and engaged can leave a positive impression and help you gather useful insights.

Introduce yourself casually and show interest in their expertise. Ask questions like, “How long have you been working in this area?” or “What trends are you seeing in the market right now?”

5. Reach out through social media platforms

Many real estate agents are active on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Social platforms provide a great outlet to learn more about an agent's personality, expertise, and approach before getting in touch.

When to contact an agent on social media

Since social media isn’t usually an agent’s primary communication channel, use this method only if they seem highly active or responsive.

How to contact an agent on social media

Be professional but friendly, and engage with a few of their posts before sending a direct message to show your genuine interest.

6. Go through referrals 

One of the most reliable ways to connect with a trustworthy real estate agent is by asking for referrals from friends, family, or colleagues, especially ones who have recently bought or sold a house. In 2024, 28% of sellers reported finding their agent through a referral. And among seller-buyers that used an agent, 73% reported hiring the same agent to help sell their previous home and buy their new one. Not only can a referral validate an agent’s abilities, but they can also help facilitate introductions.

When to contact a referral agent

Use agent referrals during research or when you’re just starting your buying or selling process. 

How to contact a referral agent

Be sure to mention the referral when contacting the agent to establish credibility and rapport quickly.

Why timing & method matter 

Each method of contacting a real estate agent has its advantages, and choosing the right one depends on where you are in your buying or selling process. Start the conversation early and be transparent about your needs to help you and your agent move forward confidently.

You can start your search today with Zillow’s comprehensive agent directory and connect with top-rated real estate agents in your area.