Top 10 Secrets Real Estate Agents Don’t Want You to Know
When you’re buying or selling a home, real estate agents can be your greatest allies or your biggest blind spot. While many agents work with integrity, the industry has its share of carefully kept secrets. Understanding these behind-the-scenes truths can help you make smarter decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Here are the top 10 secrets real estate agents don’t usually want you to know.
1. They Often Prioritize Their Commission Over Your Best Deal
At the end of the day, agents make money through commissions typically 5–6% of the sale price. That means they benefit more from closing a sale quickly than from negotiating the absolute best price for you. A $10,000 price difference may only be a few hundred dollars to them, but it could mean the world to you.
2. Open Houses Rarely Sell Homes They’re for the Agent
Despite what you may hear, open houses rarely lead to a home sale. What they do offer is a chance for agents to meet potential new clients. Your home becomes a marketing tool for the agent, not necessarily a selling tool for your property.
3. They May Recommend Lenders and Inspectors Who Work in Their Favor
Some agents refer buyers to “trusted” lenders or inspectors who may be more loyal to the agent than to you. While not always unethical, these relationships can lead to biased inspections or financing advice. Always shop around for independent professionals.
4. Dual Agency Is a Conflict of Interest
In some cases, one agent may represent both the buyer and the seller. This is called dual agency, and while legal in many states, it presents a clear conflict of interest. Can one person truly negotiate the best deal for both sides? Probably not.
5. Your Home Might Be Undervalued for a Faster Sale
If you’re selling, some agents may suggest listing at a lower price to attract multiple offers quickly making their job easier and ensuring a fast commission. You could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table.
6. Agents May Push You to Close Faster for Their Own Quotas
Real estate is often a numbers game. Agents working on monthly or quarterly quotas might pressure you to close sooner than you’re comfortable, even if waiting could bring a better offer or a lower purchase price.
7. They Don’t Have to Show You Every Available Property
Unless you ask, agents may only show you homes listed by their brokerage or those offering higher commissions. Always ask for a complete list of all MLS (Multiple Listing Service) properties that meet your criteria.
8. The Listing Price Is a Strategy, Not a Guarantee
That high asking price on your dream home? It could be a tactic to test the market or make the property look more desirable. Conversely, a low price might be set to trigger a bidding war. Don’t assume the price reflects true value.
9. They Might Use Pressure Tactics to Close the Deal
Statements like “There’s another offer on the table” or “You’ll lose the house if you wait” may be true but sometimes they’re not. While urgency can be real in hot markets, it’s also a tool used to speed up your decision.
10. You Can Negotiate Their Commission
Most buyers and sellers don’t realize this but yes, real estate commissions are negotiable. Especially in competitive markets or high-value transactions, you may be able to get a lower rate or work out creative terms. All you have to do is ask.
