What Makes a Great Real Estate Agent (vs. Just an Okay One)?
Not all agents are created equal. And when it comes to buying or selling a home—especially a unique mid century house—the difference between a good real estate agent and a great one can mean thousands of dollars in savings or earnings, saved time, and a whole lot less stress.
If you’re wondering how to tell them apart, here’s what to look for.
First Things First: Real Estate Agent vs. Realtor®
You may or may not know this: all Realtors are real estate agents, but not all agents are Realtors.
A Realtor® is a licensed real estate agent who’s also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR)—which means they’ve agreed to a strict Code of Ethics that prioritizes professionalism, transparency, and client-first service. I happen to be a proud Realtor® who upholds those values.
It’s a small distinction with big implications. When you work with a Realtor®, you know you’re working with someone who’s held to a higher standard—and who’s accountable not just to you, but to the ethical expectations of the industry as a whole.
What Sets a Great Agent Apart
So, what separates a “meh” agent from one who will make you want to send them holiday cards for the rest of your life?
They’re Responsive
You won’t be left wondering when you’ll hear back. Great agents text back quickly, answer your calls, and loop you in ASAP if something changes.
They’re Proactive
They don’t wait for you to bring something up—they’re two steps ahead. Scheduling showings, flagging new listings, prepping for offer scenarios...they’re anticipating what’s next so you don’t have to.
They Explain Everything
Buying or selling a home is a complex process. A great agent doesn’t just hand you papers to sign—they walk you through what it means, why it matters, and what’s coming next.
They Advocate Like a Trusted Advisor
Your agent is your person through the entire experience. Whether you’re buying or selling, they should be the one you can trust to ask the awkward questions, push back on a buyer or seller when needed, and help you feel 100% confident in your decisions.
Above and Beyond
Here’s what I bring to the table when I’m your Realtor.
Expert Eye for Repairs & Negotiations. With a background in property management, I can spot costly red flags that other agents miss. Then, I use those insights to help you negotiate from a smarter position.
Detail-Oriented Strategy. Every home, client, and deal is different. I don’t cookie-cutter anything—I tailor your strategy, timeline, and support based on what you need and prefer.
Staging & Style Know-How. Selling? My styling sense and staging tips help your home feel welcoming and vibrant.
Local MCM Expertise. You won’t find another agent more obsessed with mid century modern homes in Utah. I know what makes these homes valuable and how to spot a hidden gem.
TL;DR?
A great agent:
Communicates clearly and quickly.
Acts in your best interest.
Has market and contract knowledge.
Protects you from making missteps.
Essentially? We work like we’re buying or selling our own home.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Whether you’re just getting started or already scrolling through listings on Zillow, the easiest way to see what a great agent does is to follow along in real time:
Follow @MidModUtah on Instagram.
Turn on notifications so you never miss a great listing.
DM anytime for advice, questions, or help getting into your dream home.
Your perfect mid century modern home is out there—and I can help you find it, negotiate the deal, and (maybe this is a stretch but I’m going to stand by it) fall in love with the process along the way.
