Why It’s Important to Have a Good Investor Agent and What to Look For

[Sarah Poehler]

Why It’s Important to Have a Good Investor Agent and What to Look For

1. Detail-Oriented and Contract-Savvy
As an investor agent, I see contract errors all the time: missing addenda, absent signatures or initials, and even agents forgetting to submit commission documents. One common issue: buyer agents submitting offers with financing (including hard money loans) but no financing contingency. Hard money is still a loan, and without that contingency, your buyer risks losing their EMD(Earnest Money Deposit) if financing falls through. A competent, detail-focused agent protects your deal and your client. If your agent misses key details, can't negotiate, or lacks knowledge, that's a major liability.

2. Willing to Do the Work
A quality agent goes beyond the basics. I do extensive research and legwork for clients, especially out-of-state buyers, including touring and videoing properties. This builds trust, demonstrates expertise, and makes future deals smoother.
For sellers, we take clear, well-lit photos and videos of homes, even occupied ones (within reason). We film walk-throughs to reduce disruption to tenants and provide buyers with better insight to the condition of the property, and for our own knowledge, so we can better describe the property when asked about it and for listing descriptions.

When I do my daily market searches on MLS (Multi Listing Service), I see so many lacking details like mentioning a property is on public water/sewer when it's not, or forgetting to mention it's on septic. We also see missing images, sometimes, there are no interior photos at all. Occasionally, it's obvious the property is a full reno, but other times, we're left guessing and trying to reach the agent, who sometimes never gets back to us. Good agents also write solid listings. Did they mention the ADU, what about a preferred title company, or whether the washer/dryer is included or not? These details matter.

3. Responsive and Reliable
Timely responses (within reason) are crucial. Delays can cost deals. We often work across time zones, but agents must still communicate efficiently. A buyer or seller agent who’s too slow can lose out. I always follow up with helpful info, not just to check in. Your agent should be present, proactive, and consistently responsive.

4. Personable and Communicative
You’ll be talking to your agent a lot. It helps if they’re likable and communicate clearly and regularly. A poor communicator slows everything down.
Side note: Agents appreciate customers respecting their time (please, no 10 pm calls—yes, it happens!). While you’re right to expect professionalism, a hardworking agent deserves boundaries too. Ask about their preferred hours and communication style. We do the same for our clients. Mutual respect = smoother, happier transactions. We truly love our customers! ❤