The Difference Between an Average and a Great Realtor

We’ve been selling real estate in North Idaho for 35+ years as a team, and over the years we’ve seen a LOT of different approaches to this business. There are so many hardworking, knowledgeable agents in this industry… but there are also some habits that can make the buying or selling process way more stressful than it needs to be.

Here are a few things we personally believe separate an average realtor from a great one:

The average agent pressures you to sign paperwork on the first meeting.
A great agent gives you time to prepare, ask questions, and move at your own pace.

If your very first meeting with a realtor turns into “let’s sign paperwork” and “I’ll schedule photos next week,” that can feel overwhelming. Everyone’s timeline is different, and a good agent should give you space to prepare your property, ask questions, and make the decision to list when you’re ready.

The average agent doesn’t communicate well.

A great agent keeps you updated every step of the way and actually answers their phone.

You should never feel ignored or left out of the loop during one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. Whether it’s a quick update, answering texts, or explaining the next step, communication matters. We’d rather give you TMI than leave you wondering what’s going on.

The average agent gives an eyeball price after a quick walkthrough.

A great agent takes the time to research the market and provide a full CMA.

Throwing out a number after a quick walkthrough isn’t enough. Pricing should come from market data, comparable sales, and understanding what buyers are actually willing to pay in today’s market. Sometimes it's not what our sellers want to hear, but we'd rather be honest with you than waste both our time.

The average agent pushes you toward their favorite lender or contractor.

A great agent gives you several trusted options and lets you choose what’s best for you.

It’s completely normal for agents to have trusted lenders, inspectors, and contractors they enjoy working with. But you should always feel free to shop around and choose the professionals that are the best fit for you.

The average agent takes all the listing photos on their smartphone.

A great agent invests in professional marketing because first impressions matter.

Professional photography matters. Buyers form their first impression online, and great marketing helps your home stand out and show at its full potential.

The average agent doesn’t give you privacy to discuss sensitive issues.

A great agent knows when to step back and give buyers space to talk privately with their spouse, family, or people they trust during a showing and transaction.

Buyers need space to think and have honest conversations with family members. A good agent knows when to guide the conversation and when to step back.

The average agent skims through the paperwork.

A great agent explains the contract and the fine print so you understand what you’re signing.

Real estate contracts are legal documents, and clients deserve to understand what they’re signing. The forms and rules are constantly changing, and part of our job is making sure you feel informed and protected throughout the process.

The average agent tells you what you want to hear about price.

A great agent tells you the truth about what the market is actually doing.

Sometimes the honest conversation isn’t the easiest one. Overpricing a home might sound good at first, but it can create more problems and cost sellers time and money in the long run. Good agents back their advice with data, not just promises.

The average agent talks like commission has a “standard rate” or competes by being the cheapest.

A great agent is transparent that commission has always been negotiable, while also confidently standing behind the value they provide through service and experience.

Commission has always been negotiable, and there’s no “standard rate.” At the same time, experienced agents know the value they bring through marketing, negotiation, communication, and protecting their clients throughout the transaction. The cheapest option isn’t always the best option in real estate. Experience, communication, marketing, availability, and attention to detail all matter when choosing someone to represent you.

At the end of the day, every client is different. The most important thing is finding a realtor you trust, feel comfortable with, and genuinely enjoy working with.