When it comes to buying or selling a home, working with a real estate agent isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. A skilled, proactive and well-connected agent can mean the difference between a smooth transaction, and one filled with roadblocks. But what many people don’t realize is that the client-agent relationship itself can significantly impact your overall experience and success.
Your relationship with your agent is more than just transactional. It’s a partnership. And when you know how to make the most of that relationship, you’re setting yourself up for smarter decisions, better negotiations and fewer surprises.
At Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, we believe that a strong client-agent connection is the foundation for real estate success. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating or preparing to sell a longtime family property, our agents are trained to provide full-service, relationship-focused support. With industry-leading tools, exclusive programs and local expertise, Howard Hanna makes it easy to build a partnership that works.
Here is a guide to making the most of your relationship with a real estate agent from the first meeting to beyond the closing.
- Why Your Relationship With Your Agent Matters
Think of your real estate agent as your project manager, marketing strategist, data analyst, negotiator and counselor. The stronger your relationship, the better they can serve you.
A great relationship leads to:
- Better communication and fewer misunderstandings
- Faster transactions with fewer delays
- Stronger negotiations built on trust
- Tailored strategies based on your lifestyle, goals and preferences
- Peace of mind, even when the unexpected happens
Howard Hanna agents are trained to focus not only on the sale, but on the client experience, ensuring a foundation of trust, transparency and commitment.
- Start Strong: Choose the Right Agent
Finding the right fit is key. Use Howard Hanna’s Find an Agent tool to browse by location, specialty and experience level.
Questions to ask when interviewing agents:
- How long have you been in real estate?
- What types of clients do you typically work with?
- How well do you know my target neighborhood?
- How do you prefer to communicate?
- What’s your strategy for selling or buying in this market?
- Set Clear Expectations From the Start
Ensure both you and your agent understand each other’s expectations.
Discuss:
- Your timeline
- Who will be involved in decision-making
- Your preferred level of involvement
- Communication frequency
- Budget and flexibility on location or features
Howard Hanna agents begin with an in-depth consultation to establish priorities and personalized strategies.
- Prioritize Communication
Good communication is key.
Consider:
- Preferred method: Text, email, phone or video
- How often you want updates
- How quickly you expect responses
- Comfort level asking questions
With Howard Hanna’s systems, you receive timely alerts, automated updates and personalized insights based on your preferences.
- Be Honest About Needs, Budget and Deal-Breakers
Transparency helps your agent deliver results.
Be upfront about:
- Must-have features
- Deal-breakers
- Your financial situation
- Any non-negotiables
- Trust Their Expertise, But Stay Informed
Lean on your agent’s experience. Howard Hanna agents are trained in market knowledge and negotiation.
Trust their guidance on:
- Pricing
- Competitive offers
- Inspections
- Market dynamics
Ask questions to stay confident and informed.
- Work Together During the House Hunt
Keep the search organized and productive:
- Share listings that interest you
- Provide feedback after showings
- Notify your agent if preferences change
- Be punctual for appointments
- Avoid booking directly with listing agents
Use Howard Hanna’s tools to collaborate and stay in sync.
- Provide Real-Time Feedback
Ongoing feedback refines your agent’s approach.
Examples:
- “I didn’t like the kitchen layout.”
- “This location feels too far from work.”
- “I might consider a fixer-upper.”
Sellers benefit from feedback on price, staging and marketing.
- Work as a Team During Offers, Negotiations and Inspections
Buyers:
- Define your limits and trust your agent’s strategy
- Follow their lead during inspections
Sellers:
- Be honest about repair flexibility
- Let your agent manage offers and negotiations
- Stay calm and informed
Howard Hanna agents are skilled negotiators who know when to push or pivot.
- Use Howard Hanna’s Full-Service Support
Howard Hanna offers in-house services including:
- Mortgage
- Title and escrow
- Insurance
- Home warranty
- Relocation assistance
- Luxury marketing
Your agent can coordinate services for a seamless experience.
- Maintain the Relationship After the Sale
Howard Hanna agents often support clients beyond closing.
Stay in touch for:
- Home maintenance tips
- Market updates
- Contractor referrals
- Property value estimates
- When a Strong Agent Relationship Is Essential
- First-time buyers: Need education and guidance
- Luxury sellers: Require high-end marketing
- Out-of-state buyers: Depend on local insight
- Busy professionals: Value proactive service
- Downsizers: Benefit from tailored support
- What Sets Howard Hanna Agents Apart
- Find It First® program for early listing access
- 100% Money Back Guarantee (eligible homes)
- Buy Before You Sell program
- Market snapshots and data tools
- Local involvement and ongoing training
- Tips for Strengthening the Agent Partnership
For buyers:
- Get pre-approved
- Be responsive
- Be transparent about finances
- Share preferences clearly
- Stay involved
For sellers:
- Trust pricing advice
- Keep home show-ready
- Follow marketing plans
- Allow agent access for showings
- Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re buying, selling, investing or relocating, a strong relationship with your agent makes all the difference. Connect with a local Howard Hanna agent today and begin your real estate journey with confidence.
