If you’re buying or selling a home, it’s likely that you will wind up working with a real
estate agent (aka, a REALTOR(r)). While it is possible to buy or sell a home without
an agent, the process tends to go much more smoothly with one present. Real
estate agents do a ton of work, including educating clients about the process,
conducting research and handling various details of the transaction from start to
finish.
A typical real estate agent’s day starts with networking and meeting potential
clients. They may be asked to show homes to buyers or give out their business card,
and then follow up with emails, calls and texts to build their client base. Afternoons
are typically spent with existing clients, helping them navigate the home buying or
selling process.
For sellers, their duties include listing a home on the Multiple Listing Service
database, creating advertisements and holding open houses. They also help their
clients set a home price, assist with mortgages and negotiate terms on
contingencies. When it comes to buyers, they will scour listings, tour properties and
help them make an offer. Once an offer is accepted, they will help with the home
inspection and handle the closing process.
It’s not uncommon for an experienced real estate agent to have 7 to 10 active
clients at any given time. They need to be available to each client and provide them
with their undivided attention. It’s part of what makes a good real estate agent so
valuable!
Real estate agents also take on administrative tasks, such as preparing disclosures
and other documents. They also keep up with market trends and the latest
developments in real estate laws and regulations. Many agents attend seminars and
workshops to improve their skills, credentials and marketability. They are often
required to obtain continuing education credits, too, in order to maintain their
license.
Depending on the state where they work, real estate agents can be licensed as
salespeople or brokers. Brokers are responsible for the supervision of other real
estate agents. Brokers don’t supervise other agents out of the goodness of their
hearts, however; they do it for the money. Brokers typically get 3% of the final sale
price, which is split between the buyer’s and seller’s agent.Also read https://www.revivalhomebuyer.com/
Real estate agents continue to communicate throughout the closing process, and
they may suggest a final walk-through of a property prior to the closing date. This
allows the buyer to see if any damage has occurred since the initial contract was
drawn up and makes sure all of the paperwork is accurate before closing. Mistakes in
this area can delay closing or add costs for the buyers and/or sellers, so it’s an
important part of a real estate agent’s job!