Avoiding Agent Disapproval

By Lloyd Edge

In the world of real estate, the relationship between clients and agents is pivotal.
The nuances of interaction can greatly influence the success of buying or selling a home.
From the initial meeting to closing deals, certain behaviors and practices can either facilitate a smooth transaction or cause friction.
Here’s an insider look at what might give your agent the ‘ick’, alongside strategies for making a positive impression.

Common Missteps to Avoid

• Wasting the Realtor’s Time: One of the biggest frustrations for agents is clients not being ready to move forward with the buying or selling process. It’s crucial to ensure you’re financially and emotionally prepared before engaging an agent’s services. If you’re just looking, consider attending open houses rather than requesting private showings​​.
• Ignoring Fit and Expertise: Not every realtor will be the right match for your needs. It’s important to conduct thorough research and interviews to find an agent whose experience aligns with your goals and who you connect with on a personal level​​.
• Lack of Clarity and Decisiveness: Be specific about what you want in a home and communicate your non-negotiables clearly. This helps your agent narrow down the best options and avoid properties that don’t meet your criteria​​.
• Overstepping Budget Boundaries: It’s tempting to look at homes outside of your financial reach, but this can lead to disappointment or, worse, financial strain. Be upfront and honest with your agent about what you can afford​​.

Making a Great First Impression

• Arrive on Time: Whether you’re meeting with your agent or viewing a property, punctuality shows respect for everyone’s time and commitment to the process​​.
• Respect House Viewing Etiquette: Take off your shoes if required, refrain from bringing food or using the bathroom during showings, and avoid bringing pets or young children who might distract from the task at hand​​.
• Ask Relevant Questions: While it’s important to trust your agent’s expertise, showing interest and asking questions about properties demonstrates engagement and helps you gather important information​​.

Best Practices for a Productive Relationship

• Perform Due Diligence: While agents are a wealth of information, doing your own research on properties and neighbourhoods can provide additional peace of mind and inform your decision-making process​​.
• Be Accommodating and Flexible: Understand that real estate agents manage multiple clients and schedules. Being flexible with your availability and responsive to communication can make the process smoother for everyone involved​​.
• Use a Different Agent Than the Seller: To ensure your interests are fully represented, it’s advisable to have your own agent rather than using the seller’s. This avoids potential conflicts of interest and ensures you have an advocate in your corner​​.

Navigating the real estate market requires a partnership based on mutual respect, clear communication, and shared goals. By understanding the dos and don’ts of interacting with your agent, you can foster a positive relationship that leads to successful outcomes. Whether you’re buying or selling, remembering these tips can help you avoid common pitfalls and make the process as smooth as possible.

About the author: Lloyd Edge is a successful property investor, bestselling author, and award-winning buyers’ agency founder. This is an opinion column. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of this publication.