How to Tell if Your Real Estate Agent is Truly Working for You
Lack of Transparency
Transparency is crucial. I’ve seen agents dance around their fees or avoid giving clear answers about their services. If your agent can’t provide a straightforward explanation of what you’ll be paying for or what’s included, be wary. The last thing you want is to be hit with hidden costs or vague terms at the last minute. I learned the hard way how much clearer things could have been if I had insisted on getting everything in writing.
I’ve been there—caught in the middle of real estate transactions where I trusted the wrong people. The industry is full of honest professionals, but there are some who don’t always have your best interests in mind. After dealing with my share of deceptive agents, I’ve learned firsthand what to look for to avoid being taken advantage of.
Reluctance to Provide References
A good agent will have nothing to hide. They should be able to provide references from past clients, and if they can’t—or won’t—that’s a serious red flag. I always recommend reaching out to those references and asking about their experience, especially regarding communication and how well the agent advocated for them.
Poor Communication
One of the biggest signs that an agent isn’t working for you is poor communication. If your agent disappears when you need answers or leaves you chasing them for updates, they’re likely not prioritizing you. When I was selling my house, I had an agent who always seemed too busy, and I ended up feeling left in the dark more often than not. This is your money, your property—you deserve an agent who keeps you in the loop and is responsive to your concerns.
Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, it’s about trusting your gut. If an agent isn’t giving you the transparency, attention, or professionalism you deserve, walk away. There are plenty of honest agents out there, and you deserve one who will work in your best interest. If you’re unsure about your agent or want more tips on avoiding real estate pitfalls, feel free to reach out. I’ve been through it and am here to help.
Pressure to Make Questionable Decisions
Another red flag is when an agent pushes you to make decisions that don’t sit right with you. Maybe they’re rushing you to accept an offer or pushing for a quick sale, even if it doesn’t feel like the best deal. I once had an agent who pressured me into lowering the price of my property without offering solid reasoning—just to get a quick commission.
Sandra Kirkland is a real estate educator and advocate with firsthand experience in overcoming industry deception. After encountering unethical agents and property managers, she now dedicates her work to helping others navigate real estate confidently, offering practical advice rooted in transparency, ethics, and empowerment.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
| The Bellwether |
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