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Should I work with a part-time agent?
Does an agent need to disclose if they are working part-time as a real estate agent? If the agent is working part-time, is that a red flag? Thanks.
Asked By Terry | Des Moines, IA | 1172 views | Working With An Agent | Updated 2 years ago
Answer(5)
Amanda Courtney
REP Realty Group
I don’t recommend it. Selling/buying requires fast communication and availability. Delays can cost you money.
- 1 month ago
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Chris Yochum
Dickson Realty
If asking an agent if they work part time, they should answer truthfully. Being part time can make a different, though just because someone is part time in the business doesnt mean a lot. They could be retiring from real estate or a variety of other situations. I would look at each agent independently to see if they are knowledgeable about the market and can serve you well. Being full time in real estate can mean in some cases that they are better equipped to help though best to talk with a couple agents to find the best for you.
- 2 years ago
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Devin Kroner
EXP, Northern Kentucky
Does working part-time make someone a bad real estate agent? Not at all.
And being full-time doesn’t automatically make someone great, either.
The real question you want to ask is:
👉 “Does this agent have the experience, availability, communication, and skill to guide me through one of the biggest financial decisions of my life?”
✅ Green Flags to Look For—Part-Time OR Full-Time:
Clear communication and responsiveness
Knowledge of your local market
Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills
A track record of successful transactions (or a great mentor/team if newer)
A professional network of lenders, inspectors, contractors, etc.
The ability to be present and available when you need them most
🔄 Part-Time Agents Can Be a Great Fit IF:
They’re upfront about their availability and manage expectations well
They have systems or a support team in place to cover showings, emergencies, or time-sensitive situations
They’re actively investing in learning, staying current, and providing great service
Plenty of part-time agents are rockstars who balance other roles (family, ministry, school, etc.) while still providing top-tier service and results.
⏱ Full-Time Agents Can Be a Red Flag IF:
They have poor communication
They’re disorganized or overextended
They rely on their title but don’t deliver on service
Real estate is about commitment to the client, not just calendar hours.
So should you work with a part-time agent?
If they are responsive, experienced, and clear about their availability—yes.
If a full-time agent is too busy or treats you like a number—maybe not.
The key is finding someone—part-time or full-time—who treats your goals as their own.
And being full-time doesn’t automatically make someone great, either.
The real question you want to ask is:
👉 “Does this agent have the experience, availability, communication, and skill to guide me through one of the biggest financial decisions of my life?”
✅ Green Flags to Look For—Part-Time OR Full-Time:
Clear communication and responsiveness
Knowledge of your local market
Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills
A track record of successful transactions (or a great mentor/team if newer)
A professional network of lenders, inspectors, contractors, etc.
The ability to be present and available when you need them most
🔄 Part-Time Agents Can Be a Great Fit IF:
They’re upfront about their availability and manage expectations well
They have systems or a support team in place to cover showings, emergencies, or time-sensitive situations
They’re actively investing in learning, staying current, and providing great service
Plenty of part-time agents are rockstars who balance other roles (family, ministry, school, etc.) while still providing top-tier service and results.
⏱ Full-Time Agents Can Be a Red Flag IF:
They have poor communication
They’re disorganized or overextended
They rely on their title but don’t deliver on service
Real estate is about commitment to the client, not just calendar hours.
So should you work with a part-time agent?
If they are responsive, experienced, and clear about their availability—yes.
If a full-time agent is too busy or treats you like a number—maybe not.
The key is finding someone—part-time or full-time—who treats your goals as their own.
- 7 months ago
- Helpful (0)
- Unhelpful (0)
Colleen Cotter
Vanguard Properties
My general advice is to work with a Top Producing agent, work with the best of the best. This should also be someone you like & trust. Someone who knows your market & someone who is a strong negotiator & who will work well on your behalf.
- 2 years ago
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Melonie Aldridge
ERA BYARS REALTY
Being upfront and honest about your ability to be the best agent for your needs. I think agents should always be truthful about being a part time agent with their clients and with other agents. As a full time agent we are needing answers as soon as possible. We can show houses and list houses in a timely manner.
- 2 years ago
- Helpful (0)
- Unhelpful (0)
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