I want to reset a few expectations about the Realtor–seller relationship.
When clients badmouth a previous agent in a listing appointment, my first thought is usually: Were realistic expectations set? Often, the agent didn’t explain what was involved in a transaction, and the seller expected miracles. Sometimes, if you don’t set boundaries, the clients expect you to be on call 24/7. Realtors are not therapists, contractors, or on-call friends. I like to become friends with clients, but I usually wait until after the deal. We’re doing business.
Know the paperwork. If it’s been years since you bought, ask to see a current purchase contract before you sign. Contracts are more specific and complex now; if anything confuses you, ask. That’s your agent’s wheelhouse.
Be completely truthful on disclosures. Remember every repair and problem. In today’s litigious climate, buyers sue over omissions that might seem minor to you but are material to them. If you’re even unsure whether something should be disclosed, disclose it. Failing to do so sets your agent up for failure and can cost you later.
Then let your agent do their job. Once you’ve provided the information and agreed to prep work, micromanaging vendors—showing up 20 times a day, renegotiating bids, asking contractors to change agreements—slows everything down and breeds resentment. I’ve seen sellers who got deep into the weeds, confused vendors, slowed work, and turned a straightforward prep into a nightmare.
You get what you pay for. If you hire a general contractor, expect schedules, detailed plans, and higher costs—this is the gold standard. Doing work piecemeal or DIY usually delays deadlines and causes confusion. If you asked for extra tasks, clarify whether you’re paying extra. Don’t be angry when progress stalls because you kept changing the scope.
Understand what your agent can and cannot do. We’re not packers, movers, painters, landscapers, or carpenters. We manage calendars, market your property, negotiate, and handle paperwork. We can’t control vendors or do specialized technical work; that’s why you hire contractors.
If someone hands you complex mortgage or construction documents, get the right professional to review them.
Be realistic about your property. If it’s an older, worn home and your budget is limited, it can look much better—but not brand‑new. Buyers of older homes expect functioning systems and honest disclosures; they don’t expect perfection. Your agent’s job is to make the property’s strengths clear and to set appropriate buyer expectations.
Finally, expect the truth. Your agent should be candid about market conditions, pricing, and negotiation; skilled at paperwork; and competent in marketing. But don’t expect an agent to halt code enforcement, change laws, or shoulder responsibilities beyond their expertise. If you’re upset about a policy—say, vegetation rules—raise it publicly, lobby your legislator, or vote. Realtors don’t make the rules.
If you follow these simple guidelines—learn the paperwork, disclose honestly, hire professionals, let your agent do their work, and be realistic about the property—you’ll avoid most pitfalls and have a far smoother sale.
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