My Real Estate Agent Refused to Show Us Homes
A reader recently reached out to share their frustration. They are actively trying to sell their home and have started looking at homes to buy. However, their real estate agent refuses to take them to private showings until they receive an offer on their current home. This left them confused and wondering, is this normal?
The short answer is yes. And no.
Let us break it down.
Understanding Your Real Estate Agents Hesitation
In hot markets where homes sell quickly and often receive multiple offers, sellers are far less likely to entertain an offer that is contingent on the buyer selling their home. Contingent offers are viewed as risky. A buyer who has not sold their home is seen as not yet ready to act, which makes sellers nervous and less willing to take the home off the market.
From a real estate agent’s perspective, showing homes to buyers who are not yet in a position to purchase is often a waste of time and effort. It also puts the seller of the home being shown in an awkward position. They may have to leave the home, tidy up, make arrangements for pets or children, and prepare emotionally for a showing, all for a buyer who cannot yet make a viable offer.
If you fall in love with a home and make an offer that is contingent on your home selling, you are likely to lose out to another buyer who is ready to move forward without that contingency.
What You Can Do Instead
That said, it is absolutely normal to want to get a feel for what is out there. There is nothing wrong with window shopping. You can browse homes online, attend open houses, and educate yourself on the market. This is actually a smart move. Being informed will help you act quickly and confidently when the time is right.
If your real estate agent is not willing to help you engage with the market in a meaningful way by answering questions, sending you listings, advising on neighborhoods then it might be time to reconsider your relationship. You are not required to use the same agent for selling and buying. If your current agent does not have the capacity or interest in representing you on both sides of the transaction, find someone who does.
The Middle Ground
If you are serious about a quick transition and want to make competitive offers once your home is under contract, talk to your lender. There may be options such as a bridge loan or a home equity line of credit that can help you write stronger offers. You can also plan a tight timeline for your sale and purchase and communicate that clearly to all parties involved.
Ultimately, communication is key. Your real estate agent should have explained the reasoning behind their policy. If they did not, and you feel dismissed or disregarded, trust your instincts. You deserve an agent who respects your questions and takes time to guide you through the process.
If you are thinking about buying or selling and need an expert who will advocate for you at every step, reach out. I can connect you with a vetted professional in your market who will make sure you are taken seriously.
