Articles

You may think that the real estate agent’s life consists of basically showing you some properties and getting you to sign some papers and showing up on closing day, while taking several vacations in between working.  Some buyers/sellers may even take an issue with their agent grossing 3% commission on the sale, because you can’t SEE that they did very much.  Don’t underestimate what an agent does to make sure everything goes smoothly!  Here’s a glimpse of their typical day to day behind the scenes responsibilities (and there are lots more!) to ensure that things are taken care of and deadlines are met and clients are satisfied:

1 – Continuing education courses – taking them on a yearly basis to keep their license, staying up to date on changes with real estate laws, changes, etc.

2 – Researching home values to know what your property is worth and knowing what to negotiate when it comes to buying a home.  Staying on top of current marketing conditions.

3 – Lots of paper shuffling, keeping all your documents secure and where they can quickly reference when a question comes up from either the client, lender, attorney, etc.

4 – Scheduling home/pest inspections, being present when inspector is on site, and making sure everything goes smoothly.

5 – Following up with lender to make sure they have all the information they need for the sale, as well as making sure appraisal has been ordered.  Knowing each lender’s rules and what documents you may have to produce for them, so you are prepared.

6 – Coordinating with attorney.  Filling out the buyer or seller’s information sheets required by the attorney, and making sure the attorney is getting the documents they need to prepare the paperwork for closing.

7 – Advertising!  Investing in marketing materials and websites, networking with vendors and other agents.  Creating and managing blogs, social media accounts, sending mailers, and maintaining an online presence to create leads.

It may seem like an easy job but never underestimate the level of attention to detail, negotiating, coordinating and knowledge that goes on behind the scenes!