What to Expect When Working with a Real Estate Agent

When working with a real estate agent, expect regular communication, market analysis, property tours, negotiation support, and transaction coordination from listing to closing. A good agent guides you through each step while protecting your interests throughout the process.

What Happens During Your First Meeting?

Your initial consultation sets the foundation for everything that follows. A professional agent will ask detailed questions about your timeline, budget, and preferences. They should explain their process, fee structure, and what services they provide. This meeting is also your chance to evaluate whether you feel comfortable with their communication style and expertise. Don't hesitate to ask about their recent sales, average time on market, and how they handle challenging situations. The best agents come recommended by people you trust – friends, family, or colleagues who've had positive experiences. If someone you know raves about their agent, that personal endorsement carries more weight than online reviews from strangers.

What Services Should Your Agent Provide?

A full-service real estate agent handles multiple responsibilities throughout your transaction:

• Market analysis and pricing strategy based on recent comparable sales
• Professional photography and marketing materials for selling
• Property search and tour coordination for buying
• Negotiation on price, contingencies, and contract terms
• Coordination with lenders, inspectors, appraisers, and title companies
• Timeline management and deadline tracking
• Problem-solving when issues arise during the transaction
• Final walkthrough and closing preparation

How Often Will You Communicate?

Communication frequency varies by market activity and transaction phase, but expect regular updates. During active searching or listing periods, daily contact is normal. Your agent should respond to calls and texts within a few hours during business days. They should proactively update you on market changes, new listings, or offer status. Establish communication preferences upfront – some clients prefer texts, others want phone calls or emails. A good agent adapts to your style while keeping you informed about important developments. If days pass without hearing from them during active periods, that's a red flag worth addressing directly.

What's the Typical Timeline for Buying?

The home buying process typically follows this timeline, though market conditions can affect duration:

1. Pre-approval and agent selection (1-2 weeks)
2. Active house hunting and tours (2-8 weeks)
3. Offer submission and negotiation (1-7 days)
4. Contract execution and contingency period (2-3 weeks)
5. Final walkthrough and closing (1-2 days)

What About Selling Your Home?

When selling, your agent should provide a comprehensive market analysis showing how your home compares to recent sales. They'll recommend improvements that add value and suggest an optimal listing price. Professional photography is essential – this isn't optional in today's market. Your agent coordinates showings, collects and presents offers, and negotiates terms on your behalf. They should provide regular feedback from showings and adjust strategy if needed. The selling timeline typically ranges from 30-90 days depending on market conditions, pricing, and property condition. Throughout the process, your agent acts as a buffer between you and potential buyers, handling negotiations professionally.

Your Agent Evaluation Checklist

• Comes recommended by someone you trust
• Explains their process clearly during initial meeting
• Provides references from recent clients
• Shows strong knowledge of your target area
• Responds promptly to your calls and messages
• Presents professional marketing materials
• Discusses realistic timelines and expectations
• Explains all costs and fees upfront
• Demonstrates negotiation experience with examples
• Uses current technology and marketing tools

How Do Agent Fees Work?

Real estate commissions are typically paid by the seller and split between listing and buyer's agents. Standard rates range from 5-7% of the sale price, though this varies by market and agent. The commission covers marketing, professional services, and coordination throughout the transaction. Some agents offer reduced rates, but understand what services might be limited. Buyer's agents are usually paid from the seller's proceeds, so buyers don't typically pay direct fees. However, recent industry changes may affect these arrangements, so discuss payment structure clearly upfront. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best value if it means reduced service or expertise.

The best real estate agents don't just show houses or list properties – they guide you through one of life's biggest financial decisions while protecting your interests every step of the way.

Sarah Martinez, Licensed Real Estate Broker

What Red Flags Should You Watch For?

Several warning signs indicate you might need a different agent. Poor communication is the biggest red flag – if they're hard to reach during the search or selling process, find someone else. Agents who push you toward decisions without adequate explanation or who seem more interested in closing quickly than finding the right fit aren't serving your interests. Be cautious of agents who can't provide recent references or who make unrealistic promises about pricing or timelines. High-pressure tactics, lack of local market knowledge, or unwillingness to answer questions directly are also concerning. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, it probably is. The right agent should make you feel confident and supported, not rushed or uncertain.

What Technology Should They Use?

Modern real estate agents should leverage current technology to serve you better:

• Professional MLS access with immediate listing notifications
• Digital document signing and transaction management platforms
• Virtual tour capabilities and professional photography
• Market data tools for accurate pricing analysis
• Mobile communication apps for quick updates
• Electronic lockbox systems for secure property access

How Do You Build a Good Working Relationship?

Success with your real estate agent requires clear communication from both sides. Be honest about your budget, timeline, and must-haves versus nice-to-haves. Respond promptly when they need information or decisions from you. Trust their expertise while asking questions when you don't understand something. Remember that real estate markets can shift quickly, so stay flexible on strategy while maintaining your core goals. A good agent will educate you throughout the process, helping you make informed decisions rather than just following instructions. This relationship often extends beyond one transaction – many clients work with the same agent for years, buying and selling multiple properties. Building that long-term relationship starts with mutual respect and clear communication from day one.