Real Estate Agents Tell These 15 Lies

Additional Coverage:

15 Lies Realtors Have No Problem Telling You (financebuzz.com)

Don’t Fall for These Real Estate Agent “White Lies”

Navigating the world of home buying or selling can feel like a game of telephone with a lot of confusing lingo. While real estate agents are often your trusty guides, remember they’re also human – meaning they can sometimes stretch the truth, or simply be misinformed.

To help you confidently make those big home decisions, we’re pulling back the curtain on some common deceptions you might hear from real estate agents.

1. “That is (or isn’t) up to code.”

While agents get some training, building codes aren’t their specialty. Plus, codes change frequently, so their knowledge might be outdated. Always get a professional inspection!

2. “It’s free to use an agent for the buyer.”

Spoiler alert: nothing is truly “free” when it comes to buying a house. The agent’s commission, even if it shows up on the seller’s side of the ledger, is ultimately factored into the home’s price. So, yes, it comes out of your pocket.

3. “There’s nothing wrong with this house.”

Again, your agent isn’t a home inspector. A house can look perfect on the surface, but hidden issues like mold or plumbing problems can be costly headaches down the line. An inspection is always a wise investment.

4. “I’ve already got a buyer for your home.”

Hold your horses! Even if an agent has an interested party, it’s not a done deal until the ink is dry on a contract – and even then, things can fall apart. Don’t let a “phantom buyer” be the only reason you choose an agent.

5. “This house is in an up-and-coming neighborhood.”

Translation: it’s not “up” yet, and it might not be the most desirable spot right now. While your agent might be genuinely optimistic, they can’t predict the future, and their incentive to care dwindles once their commission is paid.

6. “If you ask for contingencies, you’ll lose the deal.”

While contingencies can add a layer of complexity for sellers, especially in a hot market, they’re there to protect you. A “great deal” with hidden problems or appraisal issues isn’t great at all. Always ask!

7. “It’s always a good time to buy.”

Tell that to folks who bought right before a market crash or when interest rates were sky-high. Timing does matter in real estate, and it’s not always a buyer’s market.

8. “You’ll never sell your house as a FSBO.”

While agents might show stats suggesting “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) homes sell for less, those figures can be misleading. Many FSBO sellers already know their buyer and offer a discount, or live in rural areas with lower home values. In reality, 13% of homes are sold FSBO.

9. “Real estate prices only go up.”

While real estate generally appreciates over the long haul, that doesn’t guarantee your specific home’s value will climb next year, or even in five or ten. Home values can fluctuate.

10. “We have multiple offers on this property.”

While it’s ethically questionable, agents sometimes exaggerate interest. Don’t let this deter you. It never hurts to submit your offer, no matter what you hear.

11. “Your house is worth $X more than the other agent said.”

Agents might inflate your home’s value to win your listing. Always ask for a comparative market analysis (CMA) to see the data they’re using to back up their price estimate.

12. “I specialize in __________ homes.”

Do they really? A genuinely specialized agent will be eager to show you their recent sales in that niche and provide referrals. Check their track record to ensure they have the experience you need.

13. “You’ve got to see this house – it’s perfect!”

Agents are salespeople, and they naturally want to highlight the positives. While enthusiasm is good, be wary of over-the-top exaggeration.

14. “Commissions are non-negotiable.”

Almost every fee in real estate is negotiable (except government-mandated ones). Agents can cut their commissions, especially to secure business in a competitive market.

15. “It’s a great time to buy a house.”

This might be true for the general market, but is it true for you? Your agent doesn’t know your personal finances, budget, or risk tolerance. A hot market doesn’t automatically mean it’s the right time for your individual situation.

The Bottom Line

There are many fantastic, ethical, and knowledgeable real estate agents out there. But, like any profession, there are also a few “rotten eggs” who might bend the truth to get a listing or close a sale. By being aware of these common deceptions and doing your homework, you’ll be better prepared financially, whether you’re buying or selling your next home.