How to Communicate Effectively With Your Real Estate Agent
When you're buying a home, effective communication with your real estate agent is key. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an experienced property owner, knowing how to clearly communicate your needs, concerns, and questions can make the process a lot smoother. Here’s how to make sure you and your agent are on the same page every step of the way.
1. Set Clear Communication Channels
Your Go-To Method for Staying in Touch
In today’s digital world, there are so many ways to communicate: emails, phone calls, texts, DMs. The first step to ensuring effective communication is establishing your preferred method. Some agents are more responsive to calls, while others may prefer email or even a messaging app like WhatsApp or Slack.
Pro Tip: Let your agent know upfront how you prefer to communicate and ask them what works best for them. This eliminates confusion and ensures both parties are comfortable. I will communicate with my clients in whatever channel they prefer to make the process easier but not all agents will!
Questions to Ask Your Agent:
“What’s your preferred method of communication?”
“How quickly should I expect responses to emails or texts?”
“Are there times when you're unavailable?”
2. Establish a Timeline for Updates
Avoid Uncertainty With Regular Check-ins
One of the biggest causes of stress during the homebuying process is not knowing what’s going on. By setting up a timeline for when you’ll receive updates—whether it’s daily, weekly, or only after major milestones—you can reduce anxiety and stay informed.
I like to pick a day of the week to check in with my client. Typically Monday, but I am flexible based on my client’s schedule.
Pro Tip: Ask your agent to outline key moments when you’ll definitely hear from them, like after an offer is submitted or when inspection results come in.
Sample Timeline for Updates:
Offer submission
Offer acceptance
Inspection day
Appraisal day
Closing date confirmation
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
No Question Is Too Small
Feeling lost in the jargon of real estate? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Buying a home can be confusing, especially if it’s your first time. Make it a point to ask your agent anything you don’t understand, whether it’s about contract terms, property taxes, or what happens after the inspection.
Pro Tip: Keep a running list of questions that pop up throughout the process so you don’t forget to ask when you speak with your agent.
Common Questions to Ask:
“How does the offer process work?”
“What should I expect at closing?”
“What happens if the inspection reveals a major issue?”
In my process, I give a full run down of everything coming up at multiple points. Questions still come up and I’m happy to answer as many times as needed for my clients to feel confident.
4. Set Expectations for Feedback
Be Honest and Open With Your Agent
Your agent is there to help you, but they need your honest feedback to guide you toward the right home. If a house doesn’t meet your needs, say so. If you're unsure about a feature, ask for more clarification. Clear, straightforward feedback allows your agent to fine-tune their search and bring you homes that are better suited to your preferences.
Pro Tip: Give specific reasons for why a home does or doesn’t work for you—this will help your agent understand your needs better.
Examples of Feedback:
“I love the layout, but the neighborhood doesn’t feel right.”
“The home is great, but I’m concerned about the school district.”
“This price is a little out of my budget—can we look at something lower?”
My feelings will never be hurt if a client doesn’t like something. Remember this is all about YOU!
5. Handling Difficult Conversations
Navigating Tough Talks Like a Pro
Real estate transactions don’t always go smoothly. Maybe the seller isn’t negotiating the price, or the inspection reveals more problems than expected. It’s during these stressful times that clear communication is even more crucial. Approach these conversations calmly and with a solutions-focused mindset. Your agent is your advocate, and together, you can find a resolution.
Pro Tip: When emotions run high, take a step back, breathe, and focus on the facts. If the conversation gets tough, be direct but respectful, and let your agent handle negotiations.
How to Approach Difficult Conversations:
“I’m concerned about the inspection report. Can we negotiate a credit or price reduction?”
“The seller isn’t budging on the price—are there other ways we can make the deal work?”
“I don’t think this is the right property for me. Can we walk away and find something else?”
Final Thoughts
Effective communication can make or break your homebuying experience. By setting clear expectations, asking the right questions, and providing honest feedback, you can build a strong relationship with your real estate agent. This ensures that you’re both working toward the same goal: finding you the perfect home with as little stress as possible.
