(Spoiler alert: It’s not all open houses and cute key handoffs)
Let’s get real for a second. Buying or selling a home? It’s kind of a big deal. And while real estate agents love helping people make moves (literally), there are a few things we wish buyers and sellers knew before diving in. Because trust us, it’ll make the whole experience smoother, faster, and way less “oh no, what now?”
Here’s the lowdown, straight from the mouths of agents who’ve seen it all—from the dream clients to the “I Googled it, so I know better” types.
1. Please, for the love of all things holy, get pre-approved first
We get it—you’re excited. You saw that adorable bungalow on Maple Street, and your Pinterest board is ready to roll. But before you start mentally placing furniture in your future living room, talk to a lender. Get pre-approved.
Why? Because falling in love with a $500K home when your budget is $350K is just setting yourself up for heartbreak—and not the good, rom-com kind.
2. Zillow is fun, but it’s not gospel
Online listings are a great starting point, but they’re not always accurate. Some homes you see listed may already be under contract, the price may have changed, or—wait for it—they might not even be for sale anymore.
Your agent (hi!) has access to the real-time info. We’re like your personal real estate GPS, minus the annoying “recalculating” voice.
3. We can’t read your mind—help us help you
We love a good guessing game, but not when it comes to finding your dream home. Be upfront about your needs, wants, and absolute dealbreakers. Don’t want a pool? Say so. Need a yard for your dog army? Let’s get you one. Communication is key, and it helps us zero in on homes that actually fit your life.
4. The home inspection is not a renovation wish list
The inspector is going to find something—that’s their job. Even new construction homes have quirks. But don’t expect the seller to fix every minor scratch or loose doorknob. Focus on major issues like roof problems, foundation cracks, or scary plumbing stuff. The rest? Let’s not lose the deal over a squeaky hinge.
5. Sellers, your home isn’t a museum—and buyers aren’t here for story time
That floral wallpaper? It’s very you. But buyers are trying to picture themselves in the home—not feel like they’re walking through your life story. De-personalize, de-clutter, and maybe tuck away the 32 cat figurines on the mantle. Think: clean, neutral, and move-in ready(ish).
Also, hovering during showings? Big no-no. Buyers want to poke around and talk freely, not feel like they’re being watched by the home’s unofficial tour guide.
6. We work hard, but we’re not magicians
We can price your home strategically, market it like pros, and negotiate like champs—but we can’t make your neighbor tear down their weird lawn sculpture. And we definitely can’t convince a buyer to pay $50K over market value just because you think your home is worth it.
Real estate is part strategy, part timing, and a whole lot of teamwork. So let’s be partners, not adversaries.
7. Timing matters—so does flexibility
Sometimes your dream home hits the market at the worst time. Sometimes a buyer ghosts you right before closing (ugh). The market can be wild, but staying flexible and having realistic expectations will save you a ton of stress.
And hey, if the first home doesn’t work out? Another one will. We’re good at this. Pinky swear.
Final thoughts (a.k.a. the warm fuzzies)
Buying or selling a home is a journey—and yes, we know that sounds cheesy, but it’s true. Real estate agents aren’t just here for the paperwork and the keys. We’re your guides, your advisors, and occasionally your emotional support humans.
So let’s start this thing off right: with good communication, realistic expectations, and mutual trust. You bring the dreams, we’ll bring the know-how—and maybe a coffee or two along the way.
Want more insider tips without the boring bits? Stick around. Your future agent (aka your real estate ride-or-die) is just a few clicks away.