Answers that you’ve needed.

To questions you’ve been asking.


Are REALTORS® and Real Estate Agents the Same?

Great question-and nope, they’re not exactly the same, though people often use the terms interchangeably. Here’s the real difference:

Real Estate Agent

  • A licensed professional who helps people buy, sell, or rent property.

  • Must pass a state exam and meet state-specific requirements.

  • Can work as a buyer’s agent, seller’s agent, or both.

REALTOR®

  • A real estate agent who’s a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

  • They follow a strict Code of Ethics that goes above and beyond regular licensing laws.

  • Not all agents are REALTORS®, but all REALTORS® are agents.

So, being a REALTOR® is kind of like being a verified pro who holds themselves to a higher ethical standard.

How Real Estate Agents Work

Real Estate Agents Work As Intermediaries

They help buy, sell, or rent real estate. Think of them as your personal guide, negotiator, and paperwork ninja throughout the whole process.

If You’re Buying a Home

  • Your agent helps you find homes, schedule showings, analyze pricing, and negotiate offers.

  • They walk you through inspections, appraisals, and closing.

  • You usually don’t pay them directly- the Listing Broker (Seller's Agent), if negotiated, pays a cooperating broker fee to your Buyer's Agent at closing.

If You’re Selling a Home

  • Your agent lists the property, markets it, hosts open houses/showings, and helps you price it right.

  • They negotiate offers and keep the deal moving to closing.

  • You (the Seller) typically pay a commission from the proceeds of the sale at a pre- negotiated amount, which may be shared with cooperating brokers (Buyer's Agents)..

So… How Do They Make Money?

Real estate agents are usually paid on commission, not salary.

  • No sale = no paycheck.

  • That’s why a good agent works hard to make the deal happen right- not just fast.

What Makes a Good Agent?

  • Excellent communication

  • Market expertise

  • Strong network (lenders, contractors, stagers, etc.)

  • Strategic mindset and negotiation skills

  • Trustworthy, responsive, and real with you.

What Real Estate Agent Should I Use?

If You’re Buying:

Look for someone who:

  • Knows the neighborhoods you’re targeting.

  • Has great negotiation skills.

  • Is responsive and patient.

  • Can connect you with lenders, inspectors, and contractors.

If You’re Selling:

Choose an agent who:

  • Has a strong marketing plan (not just MLS listings)

  • Understands pricing strategy and your local market.

  • Has a solid track record of selling homes like yours.

  • Communicates clearly and frequently.

If You Have a Unique Situation (Divorce, Probate, Relocation, etc.):

You’ll want a specialist who understands those nuances- someone with certifications or experience in those specific areas.

Where to Find a Real Estate Agent?

Here are a few of the best ways to find a real estate agent who actually fits your needs:

1. Online Platforms

  • Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin - You can search for agents in your area and see reviews, sales history, and specialties.

  • Google Search - Try “top real estate agents near me” and check their Google reviews.

  • Social Media (IG, Facebook, LinkedIn) - Many agents actively post their listings, testimonials, and helpful real estate tips.

2. Personal Referrals

Ask friends, family, or coworkers if they’ve worked with someone they trust. A referral from someone you know is gold.

3. Local Brokerages

Visit or call local real estate offices (like Realty ONE Group, Keller Williams, RE/MAX, Coldwell Banker, etc.) and ask to speak with someone who specializes in your needs (buyers, sellers, divorce, first-time homes, etc.).

4. Niche Specialists

If your situation is specific (divorce, relocation, probate, etc.), you’ll want someone with expertise in that area. You can search “[your city] + [your need] real estate agent” to find someone who knows the ins and outs.



When Should I Get a Real Estate Agent?

If You’re Buying a Home:

Get an agent as soon as you’re serious about starting the process.
 That means:

  • You’re ready to get pre-approved (or already are).

  • You want to start viewing homes.

  • You need help understanding neighborhoods, pricing, or negotiating.

Why early is better:
 A good agent can connect you with trusted lenders, help you avoid costly mistakes, and guide you toward the right properties before you waste time scrolling online listings that may already be pending.

If You’re Selling a Home:

Get an agent before you do anything else.
 That means:

  • Before you start making repairs or upgrades.

  • Before you get it appraised or take your own photos.

  • Before you even price it.

Why early is better:
 A smart agent will tell you what improvements are worth it (and which are a waste), help set the right price, and build a strategy to get your home sold fast and for top dollar.

TL;DR: (Too Long, Didn’t Read)

The sooner the better. A great agent isn’t just a tour guide or paperwork pusher-they’re your strategic partner.

Want me to help figure out the right timing based on your current situation? What are you planning-buying, selling, or both?

Who Pays Real Estate Agent Fees?

Ah, the money talk-let’s get into it!

Real estate agent fees structure differently depending on which side of the transaction you're on.

When Selling a Home:

  • The seller signs a listing agreement with their agent.

  • That agreement usually outlines a total commission at a negotiable percentage.

  • That commission could then be shared between

    • The seller’s agent (listing agent)

    • The buyer’s agent

So- if your home sells for $400,000 and the negotiated commission is 6%:

  • That’s $24,000 total → half of which ($12K) might be shared with the Buyer's Agent (before brokerage fees) depending on your listing agreement.

When Buying a Home:

  • You technically don’t pay your agent directly.

  • The Buyer's Agent commission can be (and usually is) negotiated with the Seller and/or Listing Broker paying a cooperating broker fee as part of the contract.

What Is a Buyers Agency Agreement?

In order to be properly represented, your real estate agent would need you to sign a Buyer's Agency Agreement. By signing a Buyer’s Agency Agreement, they will be fully dedicated to helping you find the perfect property that meets your needs on your terms. The agreement outlines how you’ll work together, obligations to protect your interests, and how compensation is handled (no surprises, just transparency).

Are Real Estate Agent Fees Negotiable?

YES, they are! Understand- there is NO-SET-RATE-FOR-COMMISSION! Commission fees are, and always have been, negotiable. Many agents try to swindle people into paying more than they should by creating this belief that there's a set price, and convince other agents to uphold this belief as well. But it’s simply not true! They should be focused on doing what's right and showing what they’re worth by negotiating with you on how much they should be paid. Because, let’s be honest- every situation is different, depending on your circumstances and what the agent offers. They could be worth drastically more (or less!) than what they’ll attempt to convince you to believe.


Our Mission

At RealEst., our mission is to restore honesty, integrity, and transparency to every transaction and deal. We make it happen—delivering results through clear guidance, expert education, and unwavering commitment to your success.