There are so many players involved in the real estate industry that it can be hard to keep track.

Chances are if you’re looking to enter a real estate transaction, you’ll encounter two types of agents- a buyer’s agent and a listing agent.

If we simply look at the textbook definitions- listing agents help you sell and buyer’s agents help you buy. BUT there’s much more to these agents than that.

Let’s dive a little deeper.

A good listing agent doesn’t just help sell a piece of property, but also works with home sellers to help them get their homes ready for sale. They will analyze the market, the area and the home to help sellers set a reasonable asking price, as well as suggest possible improvements and fixes that will increase a home’s value. They’re master marketers that understand the current state of the market and the concept of home staging and will do everything in their power to sell a home quickly and for top profit.

On the other hand, a good buyer’s agent is there to be an advocate for the buyer and represent his or her best interests. These agents work closely with those interested in buying a home to figure out exactly what they’re looking for, then they go find it. They’re experts in the area, know the neighborhood and can help buyers find their perfect property. Once the property is found, buyer’s agents handle offers and negotiate on the buyer’s behalf.

Now here’s where things get tricky- many real estate agents take on both of these roles. While some agents choose to specialize in one or the other, any licensed real estate agent can work as both a listing agent and a buyer’s agent, it mostly depends on who they are representing for the specific transaction.

Think you’re ready to buy or sell? Or simple interested in learning more about the different types of real estate agents out there? Contact me today!