To evaluate whether real estate agents are legitimate, first verify their licensing through state regulatory boards. Check for active certifications and any disciplinary actions. Second, review consumer feedback on platforms like Zillow, Google Reviews, and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) for consistent praise or red flags. Third, assess their transaction history, including success rates in comparable properties and responsiveness to client inquiries.

Legitimacy hinges on regulatory compliance, proven expertise, and transparent communication. According to the NAR, 90% of U.S. homebuyers work with licensed agents, underscoring licensing as a foundational requirement. The FTC reports that 80% of consumer complaints about real estate agents involve misrepresentation or failure to disclose critical property details, emphasizing the need for verified credentials and reliable reviews. A 2022 NAR survey found that 75% of buyers prioritize agents with proven track records in their target market, linking transaction success to agent expertise. Additionally, licensed agents are legally obligated to adhere to ethical standards, such as avoiding conflicts of interest, which reduces risks like price manipulation. Consumer reviews provide empirical evidence of an agent’s reliability; a 2023 Zillow analysis noted that agents with 4.5+ stars and ≥50 reviews close 30% more sales than those with lower ratings. Combining licensing verification, review analysis, and transaction history creates a holistic assessment of legitimacy, minimizing fraud risks and ensuring a smoother buying/selling process.