概要

Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents

Nature of the Work

Real estate brokers and sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Although brokers and agents do similar work, brokers are licensed to manage their own real estate businesses. Sales agents must work with a real estate broker.

Duties

Real estate brokers and sales agents typically do the following:

Solicit potential clients to buy, sell, and rent properties
Advise clients on prices, mortgages, market conditions, and related information
Compare properties to determine a competitive market price
Generate lists of properties for sale, including details such as location and features
Promote properties through advertisements, open houses, and listing services
Take prospective buyers or renters to see properties
Present purchase offers to sellers for consideration
Mediate negotiations between buyer and seller
Ensure that all terms of purchase contracts are met
Prepare documents, such as loyalty contracts, purchase agreements, and deedsBecause of the complexity of buying or selling a home or commercial property, people often seek help from real estate brokers and sales agents.

Most real estate brokers and sales agents sell residential property. Others sell commercial property, and a small number sell industrial, agricultural, or other types of real estate.

Brokers and agents can represent either the buyer or the seller in a transaction. Buyers' brokers and agents meet with clients to understand what they are looking for in a property and how much they can afford. Sellers' brokers and agents meet with clients to help them decide how much to ask for and to convince them that the agent or broker can find them a qualified buyer.