Working With Professionals

Agents, Attorneys, Inspectors, and When You Need Them

Real estate involves many professionals. Know who does what, how to choose them, and how to work together effectively.

Real Estate Agents

What Agents Do

For buyers:

  • Search for properties
  • Schedule showings
  • Provide market knowledge
  • Write and negotiate offers
  • Coordinate the process
  • Guide you to closing

For sellers:

  • Price strategy
  • Marketing and listing
  • Managing showings
  • Negotiating offers
  • Coordinating to close

Types of Agents

Buyer's agent: Represents your interests as buyer

Listing agent: Represents seller

Dual agent: Represents both (legal in some states, inherent conflict)

Transaction broker: Facilitates deal without representing either party

How Agents Are Paid

Commission (typically 5-6% of sale price) paid by seller, split between buyer's and listing agents.

As buyer: Your agent is typically "free" to you.

As seller: You pay both commissions.

Choosing an Agent

Interview multiple candidates. Ask:

  • Experience in your area/price range?
  • Recent transactions?
  • Communication style?
  • Marketing plan (if selling)?
  • References?

Red flags:

  • Pressure to sign immediately
  • Unfamiliar with your area
  • Poor communication
  • Unrealistic promises

AI Prompt: Agent Interview

Help me prepare to interview real estate agents.

My situation: [Buying/selling]
Location: [Area]
Property type: [What you're buying/selling]
My concerns: [What's important to you]

Generate:
1. Key questions to ask each agent
2. What to look for in their answers
3. Red flags to watch for
4. How to compare candidates
5. Questions specific to my situation

Real Estate Attorneys

When You Need One

Required: Some states require attorney involvement

Recommended: Complex transactions, unusual situations, FSBO

What they do:

  • Review contracts
  • Handle title issues
  • Prepare closing documents
  • Represent your legal interests

Choosing an Attorney

  • Experience in real estate specifically
  • Local knowledge (laws vary)
  • Reasonable fees
  • Responsive communication

Home Inspectors

What Inspectors Check

Systematic review of:

  • Structure and foundation
  • Roof and attic
  • Exterior
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical
  • HVAC
  • Interior
  • Insulation and ventilation
  • Safety issues

What Inspection Is Not

  • Not a code compliance check
  • Not a warranty
  • Not exhaustive (they can't see inside walls)
  • Not a pass/fail test

Choosing an Inspector

  • Licensed and insured
  • Experience and credentials (ASHI, InterNACHI)
  • Sample report review
  • Will you attend? (You should)

Specialist Inspectors

When indicated, also get:

  • Pest/termite inspection
  • Radon testing
  • Mold assessment
  • Sewer/septic inspection
  • Structural engineer
  • Roof specialist
  • Pool/spa inspection

Appraisers

What Appraisers Do

Determine market value for the lender. Protect lender from over-lending.

The Process

  • Review comparable sales
  • Inspect property
  • Produce valuation report

If Appraisal Is Low

Options:

  • Renegotiate price
  • Pay difference in cash
  • Request reconsideration with additional comps
  • Switch lenders (new appraisal)
  • Walk away (if contingency)

Title Companies

What They Do

  • Research title history
  • Identify liens or encumbrances
  • Issue title insurance
  • Handle closing logistics
  • Manage escrow funds

Title Insurance

Lender's policy: Required by lender, protects them

Owner's policy: Protects you from title claims (optional but recommended)

Other Professionals

Mortgage Broker vs. Direct Lender

Broker: Shops multiple lenders for you Direct lender: One source, may have specific programs

Both can work. Compare offers.

Insurance Agent

Homeowner's insurance required for mortgage. Shop before closing.

Contractors

For pre-purchase estimates, renovations, repairs.

Property Managers

For investors who don't want to self-manage.

Managing Your Team

Communication

  • Be clear about preferences (email, text, call)
  • Respond promptly
  • Ask questions when confused
  • Share relevant information

Trust but Verify

Professionals should guide you, but you make decisions. Ask AI to help you understand what they're telling you.

When Things Go Wrong

  • Address concerns directly first
  • Document issues
  • Know your contracts and rights
  • Escalate when necessary

What's Next

Making deals work in your favor.

Next chapter: Negotiation strategies.

Financing and MortgagesNegotiation Strategies