If You’ve Ever Asked, “What Does a Real Estate Agent Actually Do?” This Article Is For You
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Do I really need a real estate agent?” you’re not alone.
Similar to a lot of jobs and industries out there, many people aren’t sure what real estate agents actually do. It can feel like a bit of a mystery, which can lead to some people looking for or attempting to sell their homes on their own. But frequently, once someone gets into it, they start to wish they had someone to guide them.
So I want to help! Here's what a real estate agent really does—and what makes working with the right one (like me, @MidModUtah) a game-changer.
Real Estate Agent 101: What’s Involved from
A to Z
Whether you're buying or selling, here’s what happens behind the scenes when you have a real estate agent:
For Buyers:
Helps define your wishlist. Square footage, bathroom count, layout, commute, location, cost—and yes, your personal style (especially if you're on the hunt for a mid century house).
Searches listings constantly. Not just on the MLS, but through private agent groups, Instagram, coming-soon alerts, and word-of-mouth. Yep, we all talk to each other!
Schedules showings quickly so you don’t miss out. Especially on highly sought-after homes, such as those falling into the mid century modern aesthetic.
Points out red flags you might miss. This includes things like costly repairs (roofs, oof), layout limitations, or outdated systems like plumbing or electric that can be expensive fixes.
Coordinates inspections, financing timelines, appraisals, and all the paperwork from offer to close. This is a big one. All this behind-the-scenes work shouldn’t be on you. You’re the decision maker here, and that’s hard enough. A good real estate agent will ensure you understand every single document that gets sent to you to sign.
Negotiates on your behalf. Pricing, repairs, timelines, even appliances or furniture you may be interested in that come along with the home—and they do it all with your best interests front and center. An agent’s deep knowledge of your area’s housing market, buying and selling trends, and what is a fair price for the property based on a variety of factors helps them provide valuable guidance.
For Sellers:
Helps you price your home right. This helps attract the right buyers and maximize your return. A real estate agent uses “comps” or comparisons with similar homes in your area that have recently sold to ensure your home is in line with the market.
Stages your home to shine. A good agent should have an eye for design and flow that helps make your home feel welcoming and unforgettable for those looking online and in person.
Brings in a professional photographer. Once your home is staged, a skilled photographer ensures your listing stands out online and stops the scroll. And I think, especially with social media, we know the difference between one of us with our iPhones and a professional in this space. It’s night and day.
Markets your home. Real estate agents will share listing information with others in their network and could use social media to attract the right audience for the listing.
Manages offers and timelines. A real estate agent is the expert on all the backend work needed to get the deal closed with the best possible terms in place.
Here’s What Makes @MidModUtah Different
Not every agent does all of the above. Some do the bare minimum to close the sale and move on (maybe you’ve experienced this first-hand). But I bring a specific mix of expertise to the table when you work with me:
Property management background. I know what’s a minor cosmetic fix vs. a major money pit. I can spot those big-ticket repairs before you make an offer and use them as negotiation tools in your favor.
Design sense for sellers. With a knack for staging, I know how to help your home stand out and feel inspiring to buyers.
Pro-level photography. Because great photos sell homes, plain and simple.
Personalized service. I listen to what you want in a home, how you want to live, and how you hope this move will change your life so you feel confident in the choices you have and the decisions you make.
Wait—Who Pays the Real Estate Agent?
Hear me loud and clear: buyers don’t pay the agent. Real estate agents are paid by the seller through the proceeds of the sale. That means if you’re a buyer, having an expert by your side costs you nothing.
It’s like having a personal advisor for one of the biggest purchases of your life—at no cost to you.
Not Sure Where to Start?
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need someone who knows how to walk you through it—and who cares about finding the right fit for you.
Want to start your home search the easy way?
Follow @MidModUtah on Instagram.
Turn on post notifications so you never miss a listing.
DM anytime—questions welcome!
Whether you're months away from a move or ready to buy or sell now, we’ll take it step by step—together.
