When people think of Realtors, they often picture someone unlocking doors at showings or putting a "For Sale" sign in the front yard. While those are certainly part of the job, they only scratch the surface of what a Realtor actually does.
In reality, a Realtor wears many hats throughout the home buying and selling process—advisor, negotiator, marketer, project manager, and problem solver, to name a few.
Before Your Home Hits the Market
For sellers, a Realtor's work often begins weeks before a home is listed. This includes:
- Determining an appropriate list price based on market data
- Recommending updates and improvements that will maximize value
- Coordinating professional photography and staging
- Developing a customized marketing strategy
- Preparing all necessary paperwork and disclosures
The goal is simple: position the home to attract the right buyers and achieve the best possible outcome.
Helping Buyers Find the Right Home
For buyers, Realtors do much more than schedule showings.
They help clients:
- Understand current market conditions
- Connect with reputable lenders
- Narrow down neighborhoods and home preferences
- Evaluate properties objectively
- Prepare competitive offers
A Realtor serves as both an advocate and a trusted advisor throughout the search process.
Negotiating on Your Behalf
Real estate transactions involve countless negotiations—from purchase price and contingencies to repairs, settlement dates, and seller concessions.
Having an experienced negotiator on your side can make a significant difference in both the process and the final outcome.
Managing the Details
Once a contract is ratified, there are numerous deadlines to track and parties to coordinate, including lenders, inspectors, title companies, attorneys, and the other agent.
Missing a deadline can have serious consequences, which is why transaction management is such an important part of a Realtor's role.
Solving Problems Before You Even Know They Exist
Every transaction has its surprises.
Whether it's a low appraisal, unexpected inspection findings, financing challenges, or last-minute issues before closing, Realtors spend much of their time troubleshooting and finding solutions behind the scenes.
Often, clients never see the challenges because they're resolved before they become larger problems.
More Than a Transaction
At Marnie Schaar & Associates, we believe our role extends far beyond helping clients buy or sell a home. We're here to provide guidance, answer questions, and make what can feel like an overwhelming process as seamless as possible.
Because at the end of the day, real estate isn't just about houses—it's about helping people navigate one of life's biggest decisions with confidence.
So, what does a Realtor actually do?
Quite a lot—and we're honored to do it every day.
-Marnie Schaar