We used to wonder why Realtors® replied to our e-mails at 10 o’clock at night…midnight…sometimes even at 2:00 a.m. “Don’t these people ever sleep?” we wondered.

Then we came across a document prepared by the Orlando Association of Realtors® , who compiled a list of every single thing a Realtors® potentially may have to undertake during a real estate transaction. The resulting “to-do” list totals 183 items. No wonder Realtors® aren’t getting any sleep!

1. So, for those of you who’ve ever wondered just what it is that Realtors® do, read on to learn more.
2. Make appointment with seller for listing presentation.
3.  “First comes understanding what the client’s needs, desires and wants are; then we make it happen through skillful negotiations.” Melvin Broadous, RE/MAX Equity Group, Inc., 2008 PMAR President.
4. Research all comparable currently listed properties, sales activity for the past 18 months from RMLS(TM) and public records database, and average days on market for a property of this type, price range, and location.
5. Give seller overview of current market conditions and projections.
6. Offer pricing strategy based on professional judgment and interpretation of current market conditions.
7. Explain agent’s role in taking calls to screen for qualified buyers and protect seller from curiosity seekers.
8.  Review and explain all clauses in Listing Contract and Addendum and obtain seller’s signature.
9. Explain to seller the requirements of Seller’s Disclosure form.
10. Review results of curb appeal assessment and interior décor assessment and suggest changes to shorten time on market.
11. “We are paid to solve problems and manage the emotional aspects of buying and selling. These two items help to keep our client's stress level down, which is so important to them and us as brokers.” Sue Coon, Realty Trust Group, Inc., 2008 PMAR Million Dollar Club President.
12. Prepare listing information to enter into RMLS(TM)--broker is responsible for “quality control” and accuracy of listing data.
13. Take additional photos of the house and property for upload into RMLS(TM) and to use in flyers.
14. Review comparable RMLS(TM) listings regularly to ensure property remains competitive in price, terms, conditions and availability.
15. Coordinate all the activity of the buyer, seller, inspectors, escrow officers, repair people and appraisers.
16. Send feedback e-mails or make calls to buyers’ agents after showings.
17. Receive and review all offers to purchase submitted by buyers or buyers’ agents. Explain the merits and weaknesses of each component of each offer.
18. Contact lender weekly to ensure processing is on track.
19. Coordinate buyer’s professional home inspection with seller. Recommend or assist seller with identifying and negotiating with trustworthy contractors to perform any required repairs.
20. Select location where closing will be held, confirm closing date and time, and notify all parties.
21.  “I am an advocate for my clients through the whole transaction, whether it is a buying or selling process. Looking out for their best interest and placing them at an advantageous position is my goal in every deal that I represent.” Roger Mendoza, Compass Realty.

…179) Change RMLS(TM) status to SOLD.

For the complete list of 183 things a Realtors® may do in a real estate transaction, visit www.pmar.org/consumer/resources.

By the Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors®