I’ve found that many intelligent, thoughtful people don’t know where to start when it comes to etiquette rules with real estate agents. Real estate agents love working with people, but you don’t want to be one of those clients that cross the line. Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you’re interacting with your agent in the most respectful, effective way possible:
Remember that Agents Work on Commission
Very few agents work on salary, while most are paid commission. If an agent fails to close a transaction, they won’t get paid. Remember that agents don’t work for free, and don’t ask an agent to work for you if you intend on cutting them out of the deal.
Keep Your Appointments
This is basic courtesy- be respectful and don’t expect an agent to drop what they’re doing to run out and show you a home. In most cases, you aren’t that agent’s only prospect or client. Be sure to also show up to any appointments you make with your agent, and if you are running late, be sure to call and let your agent know when you expect to arrive.
Choose an Agent
It might seem overly simplistic, but you’ll want to be sure you actually want representation- some people prefer to work on their own, dealing directly with listing agents. If you’ve decided you do want to work with an agent, consider interviewing multiple agents to find one that you’re comfortable with. Let each agent know that you’re in the interview stage, and never interview two different agents from the same company.
If You’re Working With A Listing Agent, Don’t Call the Listing Agent
Listing agents work for the seller, not the buyer, and hiring a listing agent to represent you would force the agent to work under dual agency. If a listing agent shows you a property, they will expect to represent you, so let your buyer’s agent do their job of showing you the home.
Sign an Agency Agreement
By law, your buyer’s agent will be required to give you an agency disclosure. Signing the disclosure is your proof of receipt, though it’s solely a disclosure (not an agreement to agency). The most practiced type of agency is the single agency, in which you’re represented by your own agent, who owes you a fiduciary responsibility. Be sure to ask for and sign an agency agreement to keep everything transparent.
Source: The Balance