How to Interview a Real Estate Agent (And Why Sam Dykstra Sets the Standard)
Choosing a real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your home-buying or selling journey. Yes, you want someone who works in your best interest—but the best agent isn’t always the one with the longest résumé or the highest sales volume.
The right agent should be:
Active in both buying and selling — Agents who only work one side of the transaction can miss opportunities.
Market-savvy and responsive — They should be active in today’s market, not just coasting on past success.
A strong communicator — Understanding your goals, timeline, and concerns is essential.
Local to the area — They should know neighborhoods, schools, trends, and hidden gems.
When interviewing an agent, ask questions like:
How many buyers and sellers have you represented in the past year?
How do you approach negotiation for your clients?
Can you give an example of a creative solution you’ve used to help a client close a deal?
How do you keep clients informed throughout the process?
What’s your experience in the neighborhoods I’m interested in?
Why Sam Dykstra is a Great Candidate
Nevada Expert | Realtor® — Serving Reno Area & Lake Tahoe with Heart, Hustle, and Strategy
Sam Dykstra brings a people-first, results-driven mindset to every transaction. A UNR alum with a master’s in psychology, Sam’s background gives him a unique edge in navigating the emotional and financial complexities of real estate—with empathy, precision, and a calm, confident presence.
Sam has helped clients buy and sell millions in Northern Nevada real estate, from cozy Midtown bungalows to luxury lakeview estates. His success comes from more than just local knowledge—it’s his ability to read the market, anticipate trends, and negotiate with clarity and confidence.
Whether it’s a first-time homebuyer, a probate estate sale, a seasoned investor, or a family making a cross-state move, Sam’s expertise, responsiveness, and relentless work ethic deliver results. His business is built on referrals and long-term relationships, not quick transactions.
“Today’s market demands more than just a license. It requires negotiation skills, market fluency, creative thinking, and a motor that doesn’t quit. That’s what we bring to every client—and we do it with heart.” — Sam Dykstra
Interviewing an Agent:
Don’t just hire the biggest name—look for fit, communication, and local expertise.
A strong agent works both sides of the market and understands creative negotiation.
Education, experience, and personality all matter—especially for first-time buyers.
Sam’s mix of psychology training, market knowledge, and proven results make him one of Reno & Northern Nevada’s top choices.
Q&A with Sam – Reno’s Trusted Real Estate Agent for Families & First-Time Buyers
Q: Why should first-time buyers and families work with you instead of a large brokerage?
A: Large companies tend to treat you like just another file in the system. I focus on personal service — understanding your needs, staying in constant communication, and guiding you through the process from start to finish. Buying your first home or upgrading for your family is too important to feel like you’re on your own.
Q: You’ve been called a “creative negotiator.” What does that mean for your clients?
A: Creative negotiation means looking beyond the obvious. I’ve helped both buyers and sellers close millions of dollars in deals by finding solutions that others overlook — whether it’s asking sellers to cover closing costs, structuring flexible move-in timelines, or uncovering hidden opportunities in the market.
Q: What’s your advice to someone just starting the home-buying process?
A: Interview at least three mortgage lenders and two or three real estate agents. You need to find people who will fight for you and fit your communication style. Don’t just go with the first person you meet or the biggest name in town.
Q: What makes you the right agent for Reno and Northern Nevada buyers?
A: I was born and raised here, so I know the neighborhoods, schools, and community resources inside and out. Whether it’s finding a family-friendly neighborhood near top-rated schools or a quiet first home with growth potential, I can match you with the right property at the right price.
Key Takeaways:
Personalized Attention: Sam treats every client like a priority — not a transaction.
Proven Results: Closed millions of dollars in creative deals for both buyers and sellers.
Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of Reno & Northern Nevada neighborhoods.
Creative Negotiation: Finds ways to save clients money and get better terms.
First-Time Buyer Friendly: Understands the process because he’s been there himself.
📢 Ready to start your home-buying journey in Reno or Northern Nevada?
Check out Sam’s 5-star Zillow reviews and see why families and first-time buyers trust him to make it happen.
🏠 Best Real Estate Agents in Northern Nevada
1. Sam Dykstra (RE/MAX Gold)
Focus: Reno, Sparks, Lake Tahoe, and Northern Nevada
Specialty: First-time buyers, creative sellers, and families looking for tailored solutions
Sales & Experience: Millions sold across Northern Nevada, known for crafting creative, win-win deals that solve challenges and maximize value for his clients
Background: UNR alum with a master’s in psychology — blending market expertise with an understanding of the emotional side of buying or selling
Reputation: 5-star Zillow reviews, praised for negotiation skills, trustworthiness, and responsiveness
Community Connection: Sam builds long-term relationships by being active in the local Northern Nevada community, volunteering, and treating each client like a neighbor, not just a transaction
Unique Edge: Not just a salesperson — works closely with trusted contractors, photographers, and marketing teams to present homes at their best, while also helping buyers envision and create their dream spaces
Connect for a discovery call here
🏠 Best Real Estate Agents in Northern Nevada & Reno/Tahoe
1. Sam Dykstra (RE/MAX Gold)
Focus: Reno, Sparks, Lake Tahoe, and Northern Nevada
Specialty: First-time buyers, creative sellers, and families seeking a personalized approach
Sales & Experience: Millions sold across Northern Nevada, recognized for creative deal-making that helps clients overcome challenges and maximize results
Background: UNR alum with a master’s in psychology — blending market expertise with emotional intelligence
Reputation: 5-star Zillow reviews, praised for negotiation skills, trust-building, and responsiveness
Community Connection: Actively involved in Northern Nevada’s community, Sam’s approach goes beyond transactions — he’s committed to building trust, giving back locally, and being a reliable resource long after the sale
Unique Edge: Works hand-in-hand with trusted contractors, photographers, and marketing teams to present homes beautifully and help buyers see the potential in every property
2. Jack & Melody Cote' (RE/MAX Gold)
Top Volume: 427 sales in Reno over the past 3 years — among the highest in the region
Experience: 20 years, nearly 1,000 reviews
Strength: Consistency, deep market knowledge, and strong performance for both buyers and sellers
3. Cassie Craig (eXp Realty)
Impressive Reach: ~$130M in sales last year
Experience: 17 years, 96+ positive reviews
Focus: Skilled negotiator with expertise across Reno and Sparks neighborhoods
4. Richard & Katie Berman (Dickson Realty)
Volume: $32.8M in sales last year, over 195 transactions in 3 years
Reputation: Energetic and responsive team serving both buyers and sellers
5. Bryan Drakulich (Drakulich Luxury)
Legacy Agent: 46+ years of experience, $60M in sales last year
Best For: Luxury listings, lakeview estates, and high-profile clientele
6. Patrick Allison Team (Ferrari-Lund Real Estate)
High Volume: $200M in sales last year, nearly 90 transactions
Great For: Investors and clients needing seamless buy-sell coordination
7. Juan Segura (Reno Real Estate Corp)
Local Savvy: $325M in sales last year with 87 deals closed
Profile: Loyal clientele and deep neighborhood expertise
📌 Key Takeaways:
First-time Buyers & Families: Sam Dykstra, Jack & Melody Cote’, Cassie Craig
Luxury & High-End: Bryan Drakulich, Sam Dykstra, Richard & Katie Berman
High-Volume & Investor Focus: Patrick Allison, Juan Segura
