“By all accounts, the general public is not aware of all the services that agents provide to sellers and buyers during the course of the transaction, probably because most of the important services are performed behind the scenes.”

Here is a list of your REALTOR®’s activities, broken down by phase of the transaction:

Pre-Listing Activities

  • Makes appointment with seller for listing presentation
  • Sends written/email confirmation of appointment and calls to confirm
  • Reviews appointment questions
  • Researches comparable listed properties
  • Researches past 18 months of sales activity from MLS/public databases
  • Researches average days on market for similar properties
  • Downloads and reviews property tax information
  • Prepares Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
  • Obtains subdivision plat or complex layout
  • Researches property ownership and deed type
  • Verifies legal description, lot size, and dimensions
  • Researches land use codes, zoning, and restrictions
  • Confirms owner names in public records
  • Prepares listing presentation package
  • Assesses exterior curb appeal
  • Compiles formal property file
  • Confirms public school zones and explains value impact
  • Reviews listing appointment checklist

Listing Appointment Presentation

  • Reviews market conditions and projections
  • Presents agent and company credentials
  • Discusses company’s market position and strategy
  • Presents CMA results and pricing strategy
  • Explains MLS, online marketing, IDX, and REALTOR.com exposure
  • Describes agent’s behind-the-scenes work and weekend availability
  • Discusses screening process for qualified buyers
  • Presents full marketing plan
  • Explains agency relationships and obtains seller preference
  • Reviews listing contract and obtains signature

After the Listing Agreement is Signed

  • Reviews title and loan info
  • Measures square footage and interior dimensions
  • Notes easements, unrecorded property lines, and surveys
  • Reviews house plans (if available)
  • Sets up showing instructions
  • Verifies mortgage info and financing options
  • Reviews appraisal and HOA details
  • Researches utilities, water/sewer, gas, security, termite, and lead paint disclosure needs
  • Creates property features and inclusion lists
  • Sends vacancy checklist (if applicable)
  • Assists with Home Warranty application
  • Verifies rental unit leases and tenant communication
  • Installs yard sign
  • Completes Seller Disclosure form and new listing checklist
  • Suggests interior/exterior improvements
  • Loads data into transaction system

Entering Property into MLS

  • Prepares and reviews MLS profile sheet
  • Enters and proofreads MLS listing
  • Uploads photos and mapping info
  • Adds to company’s active listings
  • Provides seller with listing documents
  • Uploads photos and considers panoramic options

Marketing the Listing

  • Designs print and digital ads
  • Coordinates showings and call responses
  • Installs electronic lockbox
  • Prepares mailer/contact list
  • Sends “Just Listed” notices and updates
  • Prepares flyers and feedback forms
  • Monitors competing MLS listings
  • Uploads to company and agent websites
  • Notifies referral networks and relocation buyers
  • Submits ads to online real estate platforms
  • Sends buyer feedback to seller
  • Reviews market activity weekly with seller
  • Updates pricing as needed

The Offer and the Contract

  • Receives and evaluates offers
  • Prepares net sheets and advises on offers
  • Confirms buyer qualifications and financing
  • Negotiates offers and counteroffers
  • Sends signed contracts to attorneys, agents, and lenders
  • Manages escrow and contract status updates
  • Advises seller on additional offers
  • Tracks buyer credit (if seller-financed)
  • Assists buyer with financing and documentation
  • Schedules inspections and appraisal
  • Manages contract deadlines

Tracking the Loan Process

  • Verifies employment and deposits
  • Monitors underwriting
  • Adds all parties to transaction software
  • Communicates weekly with lenders
  • Relays final loan approval

Home Inspection

  • Coordinates and reviews inspection reports
  • Helps seller comply with repair clauses
  • Assists with contractors and repairs

The Appraisal

  • Schedules and follows up with appraiser
  • Provides comps and questions low appraisals

Closing Preparation and Duties

  • Coordinates with all parties
  • Solves title issues
  • Confirms dates, location, walkthroughs
  • Reviews and verifies closing documents
  • Delivers earnest money and coordinates final payments
  • Changes MLS to sold and closes file

After Closing

  • Answers post-closing warranty questions
  • Resolves repair disputes
  • Responds to future requests or document needs