Based on thousands of online reviews across Zillow, Realtor.com, Google, Yelp, and social media, the top 10 most desirable traits in real estate agents, according to actual buyers and sellers are:

1. Responsiveness

   “She always called me back within minutes.”
   Speed matters. Clients value agents who respond quickly to calls, texts, and emails—especially in fast-moving markets.

2. Market Knowledge

   “He knew every pocket of the neighborhood and what homes were actually worth.”
   Buyers and sellers trust agents who know local pricing, inventory, school districts, and off-market opportunities.

3. Strong Negotiation Skills

   “We got $25K over asking because of how she structured the deal.”
   Clients praise agents who fight for their interests—whether negotiating price, repairs, or timelines.

4. Professionalism

   “He showed up on time, was well-prepared, and handled everything with integrity.”
   Courtesy, preparedness, and ethical behavior go a long way in building trust and repeat business.

5. Clear Communication

   “She explained every step in plain language and kept us updated daily.”
   The best agents simplify complex processes, manage expectations, and provide timely updates.

6. Patience & Empathy

   “We changed our minds five times, and he never made us feel bad about it.”
   Especially with first-time buyers or emotional sellers, agents who are kind and non-pushy win lasting loyalty.

7. Proactive Problem Solving

   “When the appraisal came in low, she already had a plan before we even called her.”
   Clients love agents who anticipate issues, offer solutions, and keep deals moving forward.

8. Honesty & Transparency

   “He told us when he thought we were overbidding, even though it cost him a commission.”
   Trust is built when agents tell the truth—even when it’s not what the client wants to hear.

9. Attention to Detail

   “She caught errors in the contract the other agent missed.”
   Small mistakes can lead to big problems. Clients rave about agents who are thorough and meticulous.

10. Strong Network & Resources

    “He connected us with a great lender, inspector, and contractor, all top-notch.”
    Great agents offer more than just themselves—they have vetted teams that make the process smoother.

Final Word:

In a world where buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming, the best real estate agents do more than close deals. They show up, listen, communicate clearly, and act with integrity. These ten traits aren't just nice to have; they’re what truly set great agents apart. Whether you're entering the market for the first time or have been through it before, working with someone who consistently demonstrates these qualities can make all the difference.