Is your agent causing your deal to go south before it even gets off the ground?
By David Dorman, Broker Associate – CENTURY 21 Carioti
Let me start by saying this might be a controversial post. But after more than 25 years in real estate, I think it’s a conversation worth having:
There are agents who help—and agents who hinder.
Now, don’t get me wrong. Most real estate agents genuinely want to help their clients. But sometimes, that “help” crosses into interference. And when that happens, deals can fall apart before they even have a chance.
🤦♂️ When “Helping” Hurts
I recently had a transaction where the buyer’s agent decided to “protect” her client by calling out that all the windows needed to be replaced because they “weren’t up to code.”
The home was built in 1988. The windows were perfectly fine for that year’s code.
But she was comparing them to 2008 standards—twenty years later!
Her comment sent the buyer into a panic, the seller into defense mode, and ultimately, the deal fell apart.
That wasn’t due to bad intentions—it was due to inexperience and overreach.
🔍 Trust the Process—and the Professionals
Every transaction involves a team:
- Inspectors
- Lenders
- Title companies
- Appraisers
- And yes, agents
Each of these professionals has a defined role for a reason. When an agent tries to micromanage everyone else’s job, things can get messy—fast.
It creates stress, slows progress, and can even cause unnecessary conflict.
Of course, there are moments when an agent should step in. If communication breaks down, or if something is clearly going off course, that’s when a good agent earns their keep. But most of the time, the process works best when each professional is allowed to do what they do best.
🪑 The Furniture Fiasco (and Why Agents Aren’t Rooms To Go)
Here’s another common scenario: once the deal is nearly wrapped up, the buyer decides they love the seller’s dining set or patio furniture. Naturally, they ask if they can buy it.
At this stage—after loan approval, inspections, and major contingencies are behind us—it’s perfectly fine for the buyer and seller to talk directly. Yet some agents will absolutely forbid it.
I’ve even seen agents separate buyers and sellers at the closing table to keep them from chatting!
Now, I get it—sometimes, that’s necessary. There are situations where emotions run high, and keeping people apart is a smart move. But in most cases? It’s just overkill.
As I like to say, “I’m not Rooms To Go—I don’t sell furniture.”
If a buyer and seller want to negotiate a few personal items, that’s not my wheelhouse. Let them talk it out. Everyone’s happier for it.
⚖️ Know When to Step In—and When to Step Back
Great agents understand balance.
They know when to guide, when to advocate, and when to let the natural flow of the transaction take its course.
If an agent feels they must control every word, every email, and every handshake, it usually comes from insecurity—or inexperience.
True professionals trust the process and the people involved.
💡 The Takeaway
Whether you’re buying or selling, ask yourself:
Is my agent helping move the deal forward—or are they getting in the way?
A good agent adds value by facilitating clear communication and problem-solving, not by stirring the pot.
The best deals happen when everyone—from agents to inspectors to clients—works together, not against each other.
Thinking About Buying or Selling?
Let’s talk about how to make your next move as smooth—and stress-free—as possible.
📞 David Dorman – Broker Associate, CENTURY 21 Carioti
📧 David@DavidDorman.com
🌐 www.DavidDorman.com
🏡 “When you hire David Dorman, you GET David Dorman.”
🔗 Related Reading
If you found this helpful, take a look at my post on The Do’s and Don’ts of Home Buying. It’s a quick guide to what really makes a smooth real-estate transaction.