When you’re buying or selling a home in one of the country’s most competitive markets, finding the best real estate agent in Washington DC is crucial to your experience. From historic row houses in Capitol Hill to sleek condos in Logan Circle, every corner of the city has its nuances and realities. And for that reason, your agent needs more than a license — they need local expertise, razor-sharp negotiation skills, and a track record that speaks volumes.

So, what should you actually look for when choosing a real estate agent in DC today? We’re breaking down the details for you here:

1. Check the Stats — And the Awards

The best advice? Start with results. A top agent or team will have sales data to back up their reputation: closed deals, average days on market, list-to-sale ratios. But beyond the numbers, accolades matter too. If your agent has been named a Washingtonian Best Realtor or featured in Modern Luxury or Washingtonian Magazine, for example, you’re on the right track. That recognition isn’t just for show, by the way — it signals peer respect, client satisfaction, and consistent performance in DC’s high-stakes market. In case you were wondering, at The Jenn Smira Team, we’ve been named one of Washingtonian’s Best for 10 years running.

Do you have more questions about working with a real estate agent? Here are some more posts you might find interesting:

• Is Selling Without a Realtor a Good Idea? 
• Can You Fire Your Real Estate Agent if it’s Not Working Out?
• 10 Real Estate Agent Red Flags to Look Out For

2. Go Hyper-Local

When it comes to something as important as your home, you don’t want just any agent — you want someone who’s deeply versed in your distinct block of DC. Whether you’re eyeing a brownstone in Dupont Circle or downsizing in Cleveland Park, choose an agent with deep neighborhood expertise. Remember: The best agents don’t just sell homes — they sell lifestyles, school districts, commutes, and communities.

Learn more about the DC communities we service by clicking right here.

3. Look for a Full-Service Team

The best real estate agents in DC typically come with a team behind them: Think listing and transaction coordinators, marketing pros, stagers, and buyer specialists. Why does this matter? Because DC’s fast-moving market doesn’t wait for anyone. In other words? You need a crew that can prep, launch, and close with efficiency and precision.

4. Ask About Marketing Savvy

In DC, presentation is everything. The best agents know how to position your property (or your offer) so it stands out from the rest. That means top-tier photography, savvy digital marketing, and yes — maybe even a feature in Washingtonian Magazine. To put it another way? If your agent treats your listing like a brand launch, you’re in good hands.

Find out exactly why your agent’s marketing savvy is so important with this post next. Read ‘Why Your Agent’s Approach to Marketing Matters’ right here.

5. Read the Reviews

Past clients are the best crystal ball. Look for 5-star reviews and praise around responsiveness, market knowledge, and negotiation skills. If someone says, “They got us the house we thought we’d never win,” or “Sold in one weekend with multiple offers,” you’ll know that you’re dealing with one of the most qualified real estate teams around.

Do you still have questions about working with a real estate agent to sell or buy your next home? Read these posts next:

• Why Work with an Agent to Buy Your Next Home 
• Why Work with an LGBTQ+ Real Estate Agent in DC
• Why You Should Use a Real Estate Agent to Buy a New Construction Home

Final Thought: You’re Not Just Hiring an Agent

You’re hiring a strategist, a marketer, a neighborhood expert, and sometimes even a therapist — all in one complete package. This aspirational combination makes it even more important that you never settle for less than one of DC’s top real estate agents — preferably one who’s been vetted by both clients and the editors at Washingtonian Magazine.

Curious to see how our team checks each of these boxes? Delve into our track record here, or give us a call today at 202.280.2060 to learn more about what we can do for you as you navigate your next home search or sale!