6 Phrases Real Estate Agents Are Tired of Hearing

Realtors play a crucial role in the UK property market, navigating clients through the complex processes of buying and renting properties. Their job requires patience, excellent communication skills and an in-depth understanding of market trends. However, one of the biggest challenges estate agents face is handling repetitive and often frustrating phrases from clients. Whether it’s unrealistic expectations about property prices, doubts about agent share or skepticism about market conditions, estate agents have heard it all.

While some questions from home buyers and concerns are valid, others stem from misconceptions that can slow down the process. In a competitive industry, staying professional despite these recurring statements is key to maintaining strong client relationships. Understanding where these phrases come from can help property managers and estate agents handle them with confidence. If you work in property management, you’ve probably heard these statements countless times. Instead of feeling frustrated, use them as opportunities to educate clients and set realistic expectations.

In this article, we’ll break down six things real estate agents are sick of hearing and how to respond to them effectively. By addressing these common remarks head-on, property managers can create smoother transactions and build stronger trust with clients. Let’s explore these overused phrases and why they continue to resurface in the property industry.

6 Common Phrases Estate Agents Are Tired Of Hearing

1. "I saw a similar property online for a lower price."

Online listings can be misleading and estate agents frequently encounter clients comparing prices without considering key factors. While it’s natural for buyers and sellers to research online, not all listings reflect the true market value. Understanding how pricing works can prevent unrealistic expectations and unnecessary frustrations. 

Here’s why estate agents often need to correct misconceptions about online pricing.

• Market conditions affect pricing – Online listings don’t always reflect the current market value, as pricing fluctuates based on supply, demand, and economic factors.

• Not all listings are truly comparable – Differences in location, condition and additional features can greatly affect a home’s price.

• Some online estates are outdated or misleading – Sellers sometimes reduce prices after houses have been advertised for a long time, and some sites don’t update frequently.

• Estate agents factor in professional valuation – Unlike online estimates, agents use real-time data and housing insights to provide accurate valuations.

• Negotiation plays a role – The final price often depends on negotiations between buyers and sellers, not just the initial advertising.

• Hidden costs matter – Lower-priced houses may have additional expenses such as maintenance, service charges, or legal fees.

• Online platforms can’t replace local expertise – An estate agent’s local knowledge provides more accuracy than a generic online housing catalog.

2. "Can you lower your home commission?"

Commission discussions are a frequent challenge for estate agents, as many clients question whether the fees are justified. The reality is that an agent’s cut for them to earn covers essential services that go beyond simply advertising a property.

A lower income fee might seem appealing, but it often results in reduced service quality and weaker negotiation power. Here’s why estate agents stand by their share structures.

• Agents provide valuable expertise – Estate agents bring market knowledge, negotiation skills and answer legal understanding that justify their exact credit fees.

• Commission covers various services – Marketing, weekly viewings, negotiations and paperwork are all part of what an agent’s cut includes.

• Lower fees can mean lower quality service – Discount to fellow agents may cut corners leading to less effective marketing or negotiation.

• Successful sales depend on experienced agents – Skilled agents that are for hire often secure higher sale prices, making their cut worthwhile.

• The time and effort involved is significant – Retailing an estate requires more than just posting it online; it involves weeks or months of work.

• Marketing budgets come from commissions – High-quality photos and promotional materials are funded through an agent’s fees.

• Professional networks add value – Experienced agents with prospects have connections with buyers, investors and solicitors that streamline the process.

3. "The property is perfect, but I’ll keep looking and you can contact us anytime."

Indecisive buyers are common in the estate market, and estate agents frequently hear this phrase from clients who hesitate to commit. While wanting the best possible deal is understandable, waiting too long can mean missing out on great opportunities.

Real estate is competitive, and delaying a decision can lead to regrets. Here’s why acting promptly is often the best strategy.

• Market conditions change quickly – Waiting too long can mean losing a great estate that exist to another purchaser.

• Perfect estates are rare – No home is 100% perfect and top notch; purchasers should prioritize key needs over minor imperfections.

• Delaying can lead to price increases – Estate values can rise over time, making future purchases won't be cheap.

• Emotional decisions can cloud judgment – Purchasers sometimes hesitate out of fear, even when a estate meets their needs.

• Availability isn’t guaranteed – A estate that fits all requirements shouldn't be on the market for long.

• A well-priced home attracts multiple buyers – If an estate is desirable, others will be interested too, increasing competition.

• Compromise is part of the process – The best strategy is to weigh the pros and cons realistically instead of waiting for an unattainable ideal that couldn't be reached.

4. "The house down the street sold for more."

Clients often compare their estate’s value to others nearby, but not all homes are truly comparable. Differences in condition, upgrades and timing can all impact final home’s value price. Estate agents frequently need to explain these nuances to manage expectations. 

Here’s why direct price comparisons can be misleading.

• Every estate has unique factors – Features like garden size, renovations, and interiors influence pricing.

• Timing matters in real estate – The market fluctuates, and a home that sold months ago may not reflect today’s conditions.

• Buyer demand plays a role – If an estate had multiple interested purchasers, it may have been bought for more than expected.

• Condition and presentation matter – Well-staged and well-maintained homes attract higher offers.

• Negotiation strategies vary – Some sellers hold firm on price while others are more flexible based on circumstances.

• Market trends differ by area – Even within the same neighborhood, slight location differences affect pricing.

• Realistic expectations lead to smoother transactions – Understanding these factors helps prevent overpricing and delays in retailing.

5. "I don’t need an estate agent; I can sell it myself."

Some vendors believe they can save money by bypassing an estate agent, but this often leads to unexpected challenges. Without professional expertise, marketing reach, and negotiation skills, vendors may struggle to secure the best price.

Estate agents provide more than just convenience—they add significant value to the retailing process. Here’s why working with an experienced agent is a smart choice.

• Retailing an estate involves legal and financial complexities – Estate agents navigate contracts, negotiations, and compliance issues.

• Marketing reach is limited for private vendors – Agents have access to estate portals, purchasers networks, and advertising resources.

• Professional valuations prevent underpricing or overpricing – Without expert guidance, vendors may lose money or struggle to attract purchasers.

• Time and effort required is substantial – Handling viewings, inquiries, and paperwork can be overwhelming for private vendors.

• Negotiation experience increases sale success – Skilled agents secure better deals through negotiation tactics.

• Purchasers often prefer working with agents – Purchasers trust professional agents to handle transactions smoothly.

• Legal pitfalls can be costly – Estate agents help prevent legal mistakes that could lead to disputes or fines.

6. "You can take our word and I want to wait for the market to improve once it does."

Market timing is one of the biggest concerns for purchasers and vendors, with many hoping to secure the best possible deal. However, waiting indefinitely can mean missing out on favorable conditions or facing unexpected challenges later.

The estate market is influenced by many factors, making perfect timing nearly impossible. Here’s why making a well-informed decision now on the lighter side is often better than waiting for the unknown.

• Timing the market is risky – No one can predict exactly when prices will rise or fall.

• Interest rates and mortgage policies change – Delaying a sale or purchase could lead to higher mortgage costs later.

• Current conditions might already be favorable – Depending on location, waiting may not necessarily lead to better deals.

• Supply and demand shift constantly – A market slowdown can limit retailing opportunities, while rising demand can drive prices up.

• Holding out for the 'perfect' time can backfire – Some vendors wait too long and miss good opportunities.

• Personal circumstances should guide decisions – Retailing or buying should align with individual needs, not just market speculation.

• Expert guidance helps navigate uncertainty – Estate agents provide insights to help clients make informed choices.

Final Thoughts

Estate agents in the UK who are trying to market houses deal with these classic phrases on a regular basis, often having to educate clients about market realities. While some concerns are understandable, many stem from myths or outdated assumptions. The estate market is complex, and successful purchase through prospective require expertise, strategy and realistic expectations. By understanding the reasoning behind these common statements, estate agents who are trying to sell can better address client concerns and keep deals moving forward. Fellow agents need to become the agent your sphere thinks of first for them to build trustworthy background.

Moreover, instead of getting frustrated, agents can use these moments as educational opportunities to strengthen client relationships. Managing expectations early in the process leads to smoother purchases and higher client satisfaction. Estate managers should also be proactive in explaining key market insights to reduce misunderstandings.

The more informed clients are, the more confident they will be in their decisions. At the end of the day, estate agents are not just retailing properties—they are providing valuable guidance and market expertise. Keeping communication clear, professional, and informative will always lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.

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Neil Beltran 11 February 2025