Should I use my friend as my realtor?

Maggie, if you and your friend are close, all you need to do is discuss the parameters to ensure it does not ruin your friendship. The more important question here is do you feel that your friend is a good enough agent to represent you. If the answer is yes, I am sure you can work out the details to prevent it souring the relationship. Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Operations In: NY, NJ, FL & CA

Both are valid concerns. They may do an extra excellent job for you or the exact opposite. They could give you a reduction in cost or the exact opposite. Talk to them and express your concerns. It could be perceived that you do not "trust" them enough to help with something as important as your home sale. The other thing to keep in mind is the amount of experience the agent has.

This is one of those situations where honest communication is your best friend - literally! 🙂 Here's what I'd suggest: Have an upfront conversation with your friend. Be genuine about your concerns. You might say something like: "I really value our friendship, and I want to make sure we handle this in a way that protects that above all else. What are your thoughts on mixing business with our personal relationship?" Consider these key factors: Does she specialize in your area and property type? How does she handle stress and potential conflicts? Are you both comfortable with the business side potentially affecting your friendship? Can you both commit to keeping friendship and business separate? Alternative approaches: She could refer you to a trusted colleague while still being involved as your "advisor" You could work together with clear boundaries and expectations set upfront You might choose someone else but involve her in the process so she doesn't feel excluded The reality is: Good realtors understand that not every friend should be their client, and good friends understand that business decisions aren't personal rejections. Whatever you decide, approach it with transparency. A true friendship can handle an honest conversation about what's best for everyone involved." What aspects of this situation do you think would be most important for someone to consider when making this decision? Send a message

Friends and business is a delicate situation. I truly would interview 3 realtors, your friend included, and see how competent they all are. A professional realtor will have your best interest at their first priority and if that happens to be your friend even better because they will go the extra mile for you.

Real estate is one of the biggest investments in your life. I would make sure the Realtor you choose in successful and competent. If that happens to be your friend that's great! If not, choose someone else.

This is a common concern, and it really depends on your comfort level and how your friend handles business. A strong professional can separate friendship from the transaction and treat you like any other client—with clear communication, boundaries, and expectations. That said, if you feel it could create stress or tension, it’s okay to set that boundary. Real friends should understand that buying or selling a home is a major decision, and you have to do what feels right for you. Honest, respectful communication is key either way. Best of luck with your home purchase!

To be honest, it felt like a punch in the gut to see a friend and neighbor had listed their home and hadn't even spoken to me about it. This is a reality of real estate, but there is a HUGE variance in real estate agent experience, connections and personality. It is helpful to interview 2-3 so you can get some perspective on who is the best fit for you. We become super close when buying or selling, so you want someone that you communicate well with, but also someone who has the right experience... a lot has changed with technology just in the past few years, so agents who have been in the business forever might have a long track record but might also be behind in using social media, ai and current day marketing. You won't know this unless you interview. It's usually your bigget investment, so take the time to talk with friend and 1-2 others to know what you're getting and what is the right fit for your particular needs.

As long as your friend the realtor fullfills her due diligence and contractual agreement as specified by the code of ethics and the board of realtors, there will be no harm in hiring her to represent you.