When you refer a client, you're putting your reputation on the line. This guide provides a 7-question framework for vetting receiving agents to ensure your clients receive exceptional service. We cover what to look for in an agent's online presence, the importance of communication style, and the red flags to avoid. We also explain how curated platforms like GiveReferrals.com pre-vet agents for you, saving you time and reducing risk with features like a 4-agent-per-market cap.
As a real estate professional, your most valuable asset isn’t your license or your brokerage, it’s the trust you’ve built with your clients. When a past client or friend comes to you for help with a move in a market you don’t serve, you have a critical responsibility: connecting them with an agent who will treat them with the same level of care and professionalism they’ve come to expect from you. A great referral makes you look like a hero. A bad one can damage your reputation permanently.
So, how do you ensure you’re making the right choice? Vetting a receiving agent shouldn’t be a quick Google search or a blind request in a Facebook group. It requires a thoughtful, systematic approach. Here are the seven essential questions every referring agent should ask before sending a client to a new agent.
In 2025, an agent’s online presence is their digital storefront. Before you even think about making contact, do a quick audit. Look at their:
A sloppy, outdated, or non-existent online presence is a major red flag. It suggests a lack of attention to detail, a quality you definitely don’t want in the agent handling your client.
The best agent for a luxury downtown condo is rarely the best agent for a suburban starter home. Look for an agent who specializes in the specific needs of your client. Key areas of specialization include:
A specialist will provide a level of expertise that a generalist simply can’t match, leading to a better experience for your client.
Communication style is one of the most critical—and often overlooked—aspects of a successful referral. The best agent in the world is useless if they don’t answer their phone. When you first reach out, pay attention to their responsiveness.
If an agent is slow to respond to you—the person bringing them a potential commission—imagine how they’ll treat your client.
A professional agent should have a clear, repeatable process for handling referrals. Ask them directly:
“Can you walk me through your process when you receive a new referral? How soon do you typically make contact, and what are the first few steps you take?”
A confident, well-defined answer shows they are experienced and organized. A vague or hesitant response is a warning sign.
As the referring agent, you deserve to be kept informed. You shouldn’t have to chase down the receiving agent for updates. Ask them about their communication plan:
“How do you typically keep referring agents updated on the status of a transaction?”
Look for an agent who commits to providing regular, proactive updates at key milestones (e.g., first meeting, under contract, closing). Platforms like GiveReferrals.com solve this by providing a shared dashboard where both agents can see the status of the referral in real-time, but it’s still important to set expectations upfront.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a reference from another agent who has sent them a referral. A top-performing agent will have a list of happy referring partners who can vouch for their professionalism and results. If they can’t or won’t provide a reference, consider it a red flag.
Your client deserves an agent who is fully engaged in the market, not someone who treats real estate as a part-time hobby. Ask about their recent transaction history and their current workload. You want an agent who is busy (a sign of success) but not so overwhelmed that they can’t provide your client with personalized attention.
While this checklist is effective, it can also be time-consuming. This is where a curated referral network provides immense value. At GiveReferrals.com, we pre-vet every agent on our platform based on these principles. We verify their license, review their online presence, and confirm their recent sales activity. We also limit each market to a maximum of four top-performing agents, so you’re not scrolling through hundreds of profiles. We’ve done the initial vetting so you can focus on choosing the right personality and specialization for your client.
Q: What’s the biggest red flag to watch for when vetting an agent?
A: Poor communication. If an agent is slow to respond, unprofessional in their writing, or vague in their answers, it’s a strong indicator that your client will have a frustrating experience. Trust your gut.
Q: Is it okay to interview multiple agents for a referral?
A: Absolutely. It’s a smart business practice. Let each agent know you are speaking with a few professionals to find the perfect fit for your client. This transparency is professional and sets a collaborative tone.
Ready to connect your clients with vetted, top-performing agents? Browse the agent directory on GiveReferrals.com and send your next referral with confidence.
