The real estate industry is built on trust, relationships, and results — but how consumers build that trust is changing fast. As the CEO of AgentMatch, I've seen firsthand how technology is reshaping the agent selection process. And according to our latest whitepaper, consumers are ready for something new — even if they don't always know where to find it.

In our new whitepaper, 2025 Agent Search Process Report, 77% of consumers expressed interest in using a platform like AgentMatch to help them choose a real estate agent in the future. That's a powerful signal. But here's what might surprise you: only 5% have actually used one.

This tells us two things. First, the demand for smarter tools is real. Second, awareness hasn't caught up yet. Most consumers don't know these platforms exist — but when they hear about them, they're immediately intrigued.

Traditional Methods Are Familiar — But Often Incomplete

Right now, the most common way consumers find an agent is still through a referral. Forty-seven percent of survey respondents said they relied on referrals, followed by 36% who searched online, and 26% who used real estate websites. Referrals can be helpful — but they don't always lead to the best fit.

In fact, only 25% of consumers relied solely on referrals to choose their final agent. Many start with a recommendation, but then turn to the internet for more information. Why? Because referrals don't always consider the client's specific needs, personality preferences, or local market dynamics.

As one respondent told us, "It would be nice to find out about the agent and their specialties and location and familiarity with the area I live in."

Consumers want more guidance and transparency

Perhaps the most eye-opening insight from our research is this: Many consumers feel unsure about how to evaluate agents effectively. According to our research, less than half (47%) felt confident in their choice of an agent.

• 21% said they wanted clearer guidance on what to look for in a good agent.

• 21% wanted better tools to match with agents who meet their specific needs.

• 20% wanted more visibility into agents' past performance.

That means a significant segment of consumers are actively looking for help in making a confident, informed choice.

They're not just asking, "Who do I know?" They're asking, "Who is the right fit for me?" And that's exactly the problem AgentMatch is built to solve.

As one consumer put it, "A platform would help research potential agents and make me feel more comfortable with my decision." Another added, "Next time around, I want to see more specific details about their past experiences in the real estate industry."

These aren't abstract preferences. They're direct calls for a better system.

Why AgentMatch is the leading way

At AgentMatch, we've built a platform that delivers on what today's consumers are asking for. Our technology evaluates a wide range of data points to match clients with agents based on their unique needs — not just on who sold the most homes last year.

We look at:

• Experience and specialization

• Transaction history and performance metrics

• Local market knowledge

• Client reviews and communication style

• Professional credentials and responsiveness

This approach not only helps consumers feel more confident, it helps agents stand out for what truly makes them great.

As an agent, here's what you gain:

• Enhanced visibility, with detailed, high-quality online profiles

• Lead generation, connecting you with consumers already looking for someone like you

• A platform to highlight your unique strengths and value

• Tools to build trust and streamline communication from the start

And for consumers, it's all about transparency, personalization, and simplicity. They get to compare agents with confidence, guided by verified data — not guesswork.

The shift has started — now is the time to act

The desire for change is strong. Consumers are ready for a better way to choose agents. But they won't find you unless you show up where they're looking.

AgentMatch isn't just a tool — it's a reflection of what the next generation of clients expects. And the early adopters — the agents who embrace this shift now — will be the ones who lead the way as the market catches up.

The future of agent selection is about clarity, connection, and confidence. If you're ready to grow your business by aligning with what modern consumers really want, now is the time.

Because while the shift hasn't happened everywhere yet, it's coming. And I'd rather help you lead it than chase it.

Dylan Milstein is the CEO of AgentMatch, an online platform that uses advanced data and analytics to match consumers with real estate agents.