What does a Realtor do?
Realtors operate as licensed real estate agents and work as a representative with either the property buyer, seller, or both entities. They help buyers to define their desired property and amenity requirements as well as their price point. Realtors provide buyers with appropriate options that meet their agreed-upon requests and price point. They can represent a seller by helping them determine and set their sale price and calculation of their home value as well as the marketing of their listed property.
Realtors bring clients to properties on the market and make offers or negotiate the terms of property purchases on behalf of their clients. When a deal is reached, they serve as the point person through the property escrow process and ensure the sale is properly transacted and completed in such a way that their clients’ best interests remain paramount. If they represent the seller, they will strive to secure serious and qualified potential buyers as well as the best possible sale price. A realtor needs to have working knowledge of the local market and relevant information including past sales, demand, and inventory and will need a high school diploma or equivalent and the completion of a real estate training program or college courses in real estate. Realtors also need 1-3 years of experience as a real estate sales agent and a state license.
- Negotiate purchase agreements and contracts with buyers and sellers
- Develop strategies to obtain referrals and build your client portfolio.
- Prepare necessary paperwork (contracts, leases, deeds, closing statements, etc.).
- Cooperate with appraisers, escrow companies, lenders and home inspectors.
- Handle all real estate activities and transactions on behalf of the clients.
- Determine clients' needs and financials abilities to propose solutions that suit them.
- Promote sales through advertisements, open houses and listing services.
- Consult clients on market conditions, prices, mortgages, legal requirements and related matters, ensuring a fair and honest dealing.
- Respond to emails, phone calls, and other correspondence as required.
- Monitor and collect rental payments from displacees to ensure compliance with specified rental contract.
- Oversee the entire process from listing to closing to ensure a quick and seamless transaction experience.
- Schedule appointments for sales staff to meet prospective customers.
- Bachelor's Degree in business.
- In-depth experience creating and managing leases, contracts, and other real estate documents.
- Strong negotiation, time management, and problem solving skills.
- Demonstrated careful attention to detail.
How much does a Realtor make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$131,943
/ yrRealtor Career Path
Learn how to become a Realtor, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Average Years of Experience
Realtor Insights
PulteGroup“Great if you're single and want to make a lot of money but not a career.”
Compass“The Artificial Intelligence is great and Joseph Sirosh is absolutely amazing and so committed to taking our AI to the next level.”
Combined Insurance“Compensation is regularly incorrect and late( I was not paid my commission for two months for work performed and completed.”
eXp Realty“Our founder is amazing in that he acknowledges our short comings and does his best to address them.”
Platinum Real Estate“Luther Ragsdale is an exceptional broker who provides 1:1 coaching and weekly training to agents.”
RE/MAX“I was lucky to have worked with an excellent real estate principal broker and awesome associates.”
Corcoran Group“This is great place to start a real estate career the support and training will set you up for life.”
Kris Lindahl Real Estate“Kris Lindahl is an amazing leader and I've learnt so much while working with him.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Realtor
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