Should I work with a part-time agent?

An agent is not typically required to disclose whether they're part-time, though some states or brokerages may have their own rules on this. Is it a red flag? It depends. A part-time agent who is responsive, knowledgeable, and available when you need them can do a great job. A part-time agent who is hard to reach because they're at their other job during business hours, can't show homes on short notice, and misses deadlines because they're juggling too many things is a problem. The risk with a part-time agent is availability and prioritization. Real estate transactions don't happen on a set schedule. Offers come in at 8pm. Inspection issues surface midday on a Tuesday. Deadlines are time-sensitive. If your agent can't respond quickly because they're in meetings at their other job, that can cost you a deal. Ask directly. Are you full-time in real estate? How do you handle showing requests and urgent issues during business hours? If they have a team member who covers for them, that can work. If they're a solo agent with a full-time day job and real estate on the side, you need to decide if that level of availability is acceptable for your situation. Some of the best agents started part-time and built their business over time. The question isn't the title, it's whether they can be there when you need them.

I don’t recommend it. Selling/buying requires fast communication and availability. Delays can cost you money.

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.

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.

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.

As someone who works right here in the Des Moines and Indianola real estate markets — and who actually started out as a part‑time agent — I can tell you there are some great part‑time agents out there. But I’m also very honest in saying that I became a much stronger agent once I went full‑time. Real estate in Central Iowa moves quickly, and when you’re only able to give it 50%, you tend to get 50% back. When you’re fully dedicated, you’re more available, more responsive, and far better equipped to advocate for your clients. And to answer your question directly: no, agents don’t have to disclose whether they’re part‑time or full‑time, but it’s absolutely a fair thing for a homeowner to ask — especially in markets like Des Moines and Indianola where timing, communication, and availability can make or break a deal.