--- title: How to Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent in Another State description: Leaving Rockville, Bethesda, Washington DC or Reston for another state? How a real estate referral works, what to ask and what happens after the introduction. image: https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hubfs/blog-images/out-of-area-real-estate-referrals-reston-va.jpg --- [Skip to content](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state#main-content) ![Logo](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Logo.jpg?width=354&height=178&name=Logo.jpg) - Sell Show submenu for Sell - [Home Selling Services](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/home-selling-services-listing-agent) - [Fast Home Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/fast-cash-offer) - [Private Home Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/private-off-market-home-sales) - [Luxury Homes](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/luxury-home-buying-selling) - [Fixer-Upper Homes](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/fixer-upper-home-sales) - [Downsizing](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/downsizing-home-sales) - [Home Preparation and Vendor Network](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/home-preparation-vendor-network) - 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[Concierge Services](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/real-estate-concierge-services) - [Out-of-State Sellers and Remote Closings](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/out-of-state-sellers-remote-closings) - Buy Show submenu for Buy - [Home Buying Services](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/home-buying-services-buyers-agent) - [First-Time Home Buyers](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/first-time-home-buyer-services) - [Foreclosed Properties](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/foreclosed-property-sales) - [Farms, Land and Acreage](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/farm-equestrian-property-sales) - [Relocation Assistance](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/relocation-assistance) - [Military Relocation](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/military-relocation-pcs) - Complex Sales Show submenu for Complex Sales - [Short Sales and Options for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/short-sale-expert-distressed-property) - [Pre-Foreclosure Options](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/pre-foreclosure-options) - [Underwater Mortgage Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/underwater-mortgage-home-sales) - [Selling a Home With Liens](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/sell-house-with-liens) - [Selling During Bankruptcy](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/selling-home-during-bankruptcy) - [Reverse Mortgage Home Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/reverse-mortgage-home-sales-heirs) - [Hoarded Homes](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hoarded-home-sales) - Estates & Families Show submenu for Estates & Families - [Estate and Trust Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/estate-trust-home-sales-attorneys-fiduciaries) - [Probate Home Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/probate-home-sales) - [Inherited Homes](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/inherited-home-sales) - [When the Owner Can't Be There](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/home-sales-owners-care-facilities-power-of-attorney) - [Divorce Home Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/divorce-home-sales) - [Senior Services Network](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/senior-services-network) - Owners & Investors Show submenu for Owners & Investors - [Rental Property Management](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/rental-property-management) - [Tenant-Occupied and Vacant Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/tenant-occupied-vacant-property-sales) - [Real Estate Investing](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/real-estate-investing) - [Property Portfolio Analysis](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/property-portfolio-analysis) - [About](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/#about) Show submenu for About - [About Us](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/#about) - [Our Real Estate Agency](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/real-estate-agency-md-dc-va) - [Real Estate Consulting](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/real-estate-consultant) - [Short Sale Help for Agents](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/short-sale-help-for-real-estate-agents) - [Out-of-Area Referrals](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/out-of-area-real-estate-referrals) - [Gallery](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/#gallery) - [Blog](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/#blog) - [Home](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/) - [Contact us](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state#contact) [Contact us](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state#contact) Oct 31, 2026, 1:19:00 PM # How to Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent in Another State ![Picture of Carolyn Thompson, Broker](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/CAROLYN%20THOMPSON%20%20Realtor.png?width=50&name=CAROLYN%20THOMPSON%20%20Realtor.png) [Carolyn Thompson, Broker](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/author/carolyn-thompson-broker) Share: [facebook-f icon](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state) [Twitter icon](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state) [pinterest-p icon](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/link/?url=https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state) [envelope icon](mailto:?body=https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state) When you need to buy or sell a home in a city you do not know, choosing an agent can feel like guesswork. Online ratings tell you little about how someone handles a difficult inspection or a tight deadline. A referral from an agent you already trust is one of the most practical ways to find help. This article explains how real estate referrals work, what to ask and what happens after the introduction. To request an introduction, visit our [out-of-area real estate referral services](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/out-of-area-real-estate-referrals) page. ## What is a real estate referral? A referral is an introduction from one licensed real estate professional to another in a different market. If you live in Rockville and need to sell a parent's home in Ohio, or you are leaving Washington DC, for a job in Texas, we can connect you with a licensed agent in that area. The receiving agent represents you in the transaction under the laws of that state. Real Estate Search and Sale stays available to answer questions, but the local professional handles the sale or purchase. ## How do you choose who to refer? We look for licensed professionals with experience in the type of transaction you need, whether it is a first purchase, a luxury sale, an estate sale, a rural property or a condominium. We talk with candidates about their approach, availability and communication style before making an introduction. Where possible, we suggest more than one so you can compare. You always make the final choice, and you are free to interview anyone you like. ## What happens after the introduction? Once you choose an agent, we share your goals, timeline and priorities with them, with your permission, so you do not have to start from scratch. We stay in touch as your search or sale moves forward. We also remain available for anything on the Maryland, Washington DC or Virginia side of your move, such as selling your current home, preparing it for market or coordinating a remote closing. Questions about the new market go to your local agent, who represents you under that state's laws. ## What should I ask a new agent? Whatever the market, a short interview tells you a lot. Consider asking: - How many transactions like mine have you handled recently? - How will you arrive at a suggested price range, and how will you help me evaluate offers? - Who will I communicate with day to day, and how quickly do you respond? - Which inspectors, lenders and title companies do you work with? - Can you provide references? The answers help you judge fit, not just credentials. ## What if I am selling here and buying somewhere else? That is common. We can handle the sale of your home in Maryland, Washington DC or Virginia while a referred agent helps you buy in your new city. Coordinating the two settlements matters, especially if you need proceeds from the sale for the purchase. Our [relocation assistance services](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/relocation-assistance) page explains how we support both sides of a move, and our [out-of-state seller and remote closing services](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/out-of-state-sellers-remote-closings) page covers selling from a distance after you have moved. ## Can you help heirs who live far away? Yes. When a home in Bethesda, Silver Spring or Reston passes to heirs who live in other states, we can handle the local sale and coordinate remote signing. If the heirs also own property elsewhere, we can refer them to a licensed agent in that market. Our [inherited home sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/inherited-home-sales) page explains that process. ## Where we work directly Real Estate Search and Sale is licensed in Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia and Florida, with offices in Rockville, Maryland, near Rockville Town Square, and in Blacksburg, Virginia. Inside those areas, from Reston Town Center to Capitol Hill, we can represent you ourselves. Outside them, a referral connects you with someone licensed where your property is. ## How Real Estate Search and Sale can help Over more than 20 years, Real Estate Search and Sale has built relationships with real estate professionals across the country, and can help clients locate independent service providers here at home. Broker Carolyn Thompson is a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and an Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR). When you need help in another market, we listen to what you need, make a thoughtful introduction and stay available after you connect. Request an introduction through our [real estate referral page](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/out-of-area-real-estate-referrals). ## Frequently asked questions **Do I have to use the agent you refer?** No. You are free to interview the agent and choose someone else. **How do I request an introduction?** Tell us where you are moving, your timeline and the kind of help you need. We will suggest licensed professionals in that market and introduce you to the one you choose. **Can you refer me to an agent anywhere in the United States?** We work with licensed professionals in many markets and will tell you if we do not have a strong connection in your area. **Will you stay involved after the introduction?** Yes. We stay in touch and remain available for anything on the Maryland, DC or Virginia side of your move, while the licensed local agent represents you in that state. **Can you sell my home here while another agent helps me buy?** Yes. We can list your home in our licensed areas and coordinate timing with your agent in the new market. Related guides: if you are leaving the area, our guide to [relocating to or from the DC area](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/relocating-to-dc-maryland-virginia) covers the timing of selling and buying, and our guide to [selling a house from out of state](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/sell-house-from-out-of-state) explains how a sale here can move forward after you have moved. *References are available on request. Real Estate Search and Sale, LLC · 24-Hour Appointment Desk: 202-630-5070 · Open 24 hours. Equal Housing Opportunity.* *Real Estate Search and Sale, LLC does not endorse, guarantee or receive compensation from any service provider. Please interview and verify any provider you choose.* ## Related posts [![Sailboats moored by historic brick waterfront buildings in Annapolis, Maryland](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/blog-images/real-estate-concierge-annapolis-md.jpg?height=200&name=real-estate-concierge-annapolis-md.jpg)](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/real-estate-concierge-what-it-covers) ## [Real Estate Concierge Services in MD, DC and VA: What They Cover](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/real-estate-concierge-what-it-covers) ![Picture of Carolyn Thompson, Broker](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/CAROLYN%20THOMPSON%20%20Realtor.png?width=50&name=CAROLYN%20THOMPSON%20%20Realtor.png) [Carolyn Thompson, Broker](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/author/carolyn-thompson-broker) Oct 30, 2026, 6:38:02 AM Selling or buying a home rarely involves just one task. There are contractors to schedule,... 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[Read more](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/what-a-buyers-agent-does-md-dc-va) [![Brick colonial home entrance with autumn maple in Bethesda, Maryland](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/blog-images/choosing-a-listing-agent-bethesda-md.jpg?height=200&name=choosing-a-listing-agent-bethesda-md.jpg)](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/choosing-a-listing-agent-md-dc-va) ## [Choosing a Listing Agent in Maryland, DC or Virginia: What to Ask](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/choosing-a-listing-agent-md-dc-va) ![Picture of Carolyn Thompson, Broker](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/CAROLYN%20THOMPSON%20%20Realtor.png?width=50&name=CAROLYN%20THOMPSON%20%20Realtor.png) [Carolyn Thompson, Broker](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/author/carolyn-thompson-broker) Oct 30, 2026, 6:06:11 AM Most sellers interview an agent or two, hear a suggested price and sign. The better approach is to... [Read more](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/choosing-a-listing-agent-md-dc-va) [facebook-f icon](https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateSearchandSale) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynthompson) - Sell - Buy - Complex Sales - Estates & Families - Owners & Investors - [About](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/#about) - [Home](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/) --- [![Real Estate Search and Sale, LLC Luxury Home Sales](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/RESS%20Logo%20blue.png?width=1536&height=1024&name=RESS%20Logo%20blue.png "Real Estate Search and Sale, LLC Luxury Home Sales")](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/) Carolyn Thompson, Broker | ‪24-Hour Appointment Desk: 202-630-5070‬ 1300 Piccard Drive Suite 204  Rockville, Maryland 20850 800 Park Drive Blacksburg, Virginia 24060 ![Equal Housing Opportunity Red](https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Equal%20Housing%20Opportunity%20Red.png?width=96&height=48&name=Equal%20Housing%20Opportunity%20Red.png)   Copyright © 2026, Real Estate Search and Sale, LLC ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Carolyn Thompson, Broker", "url" : "https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/author/carolyn-thompson-broker" }, "dateModified" : "2026-10-31T17:19:00.233Z", "datePublished" : "2026-10-31T17:19:00.000Z", "headline" : "How to Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent in Another State", "image" : [ "https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hubfs/blog-images/out-of-area-real-estate-referrals-reston-va.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/blog/find-trusted-real-estate-agent-another-state", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://real-estate-search-and-sale.com/hubfs/RESS%20Logo%20blue.png" }, "name" : "Real Estate Search and Sale, LLC" } } ```