Real Estate
Why picking the wrong agent can cost you money
There are many kinds of Realtors so be sure to find the right one
Let’s face it, Realtors are portrayed pretty poorly in the media – typically as either a ditzy single mom, a pushy used car salesman type, or someone totally aloof in their own world (I’m looking at you, Phil Dunphy). These stereotypes used to really bother me, because they didn’t reflect the hard-working, dedicated professionals that I typically encounter. We work with some truly excellent agents that make me proud to be a Realtor.
In the last few weeks, the spring market has really started to heat up. Many newly minted “agents” are throwing their hat into the ring to make, what they think, is a quick buck. As a result, we’ve encountered some very interesting situations. Maybe it’s just that I am nine months pregnant and my patience is wearing thin, but I felt the need to educate the public on how picking the wrong agent can cost you. Here is a breakdown of some of the types of agents – and real life encounters we’ve had with them – that are the reason for our embarrassing portrayal in the media. So, please excuse me while I rant.
THE HARD-WORKING, COMPETENT AGENT. As I mentioned above, there are many, many excellent agents out there who go above and beyond for their clients and do a truly fabulous job. While most agents we deal with fall into this category, and I could go on and on about all of the wonderful aspects of those agents, this post is not about those Realtors.
THE LAZY AGENT. This type of agent is probably the most common offender in our profession. They got into real estate because it offered flexibility and they figured they didn’t have to work a 9-5 schedule. Turns out, they were right. Real estate is not 9-5, it is 24/7! As agents, we are available when our clients need us, when other agents need us, when appraisers need us, and when home inspectors are available. We not only must be available 9-5 for the banks and title companies we work with during the work week, but also when our clients are available — usually on the weekends and in the evenings.
Agents who thought they were in for a cushy schedule get a rude awakening. Most eventually adapt to their new “flexible” schedule. However, there are those that cut corners to stay in the industry and try to make it work – to the detriment of their clients and anyone trying to do business with those clients.
Frequently, this type of agent also doesn’t respond to questions or if they do, it takes them hours and the information is incomplete. They usually don’t respond on weekends or evenings and if they get back to you, they act as if it is an inconvenience. This sort of response can cause many buyers to simply move on if they are not getting the information quickly enough or are not satisfied with the information do receive. It’s the spring market — there are lots of listings and many of them have deadlines so buyers need to make quick decisions. Many buyers just say… “Next!”
THE PART-TIME AGENT. On the exact opposite end of the spectrum, there are many agents out there selling real estate “on the side.” They may just work part-time, or it could mean they have a full-time job and they sell real estate only on weekends and evenings. So, they are far from lazy and are often working very hard, but they can be tough to reach and often don’t know the ins and outs of the contract and general “norms” of the industry.
We aren’t knocking people trying to get started in the industry. It’s a tough job to get into as you often don’t get paid for several months (fun fact – we only get paid after a client goes to settlement – so by the time a new agent gets a client, finds them a property or a buyer for their home and then goes to settlement, it’s often six months before the agent gets a check for their work.)
I can understand that many people need to pay their bills. What I cannot understand is agents who will not answer their phones or emails from 9-5. It is completely unacceptable and an enormous disservice to their clients. If you have a listing and someone wants to show it, taking eight hours to get back to that agent might mean the buyers moved on to another property. That means a seller may have missed out on their buyer. If you’re a buyer, same deal. You might have just lost the opportunity to see a hot new listing that could now be under contract.
THE INSINCERE AGENT. Worse than the lazy agent is the insincere agent. Luckily, we don’t come across this type of agent very often. The insincere agent will tell you there is another offer on a property to try to get your clients to improve their offer when in reality, the other offer doesn’t exist. Or, they might selectively choose which of your questions to answer, not replying to you if they answer is something you won’t like. We reserve most of our venom for this type of agent.
THE NON-REALTOR AGENT. Most people don’t know there is a difference between a Realtor and a real estate agent. All Realtors are real estate agents but not all real estate agents are Realtors. Being a Realtor is an additional certification or membership that a real estate agent can obtain. Becoming a Realtor means that, among other things, you must adhere to the Realtors’ code of ethics. This is an important differentiating factor because it holds Realtors responsible for not lying to their clients or fellow agents. If they do, they could be fined and put their license in jeopardy.
THE INEXPERIENCED OR JUST FLAT OUT BAD AGENT. While this type of agent isn’t devious and is often well-meaning, it can be one of the most dangerous types of agents to work with as a client. The problem is – they don’t know what they don’t know. Even worse, their clients usually don’t know what their agent doesn’t know.
We once had an agent tell us that she and her client are not currently on speaking terms so she couldn’t get back to us on our offer. I mean, where to even begin!? Long story short, we moved on. That house is still on the market and to be honest, I would be shocked if it sold anytime soon.
Another agent recently told us proudly that they will turn away any offer that is not full price. This property was priced significantly higher than the comps. It, too, is still on the market. Granted, this agent’s client should take a lot of the blame for this, but the agent shouldn’t get a free pass.
Part of our job as Realtors is to educate our clients into the appropriate pricing for the property and at least encourage a “conversation” between buyer and seller through counter-offering.
Even if an offer starts out low, many times the seller can still get the buyer up to a price that is acceptable with a few rounds of countering The fact is, once a buyer is mentally invested in a property, they often will come up higher than they originally anticipated. But, you won’t know this as a seller unless you engage them with a counter. It is highly ill advised to reject any offer, no matter how low it is. We had a listing where the original offer was over $100,000 under the list price – we ended up ratifying a contract on the property at a price that was significantly higher than the first offer and perfectly acceptable to both buyer and seller.
Sometimes, the agent doesn’t even know how to put together an offer and we’ve had to draft the offer for their client – or re-write it completely. An agent who recently wrote an offer on one of our listings did not know he needed to include a certain contingency that his client definitely required. We nicely let him know that he probably meant to include it. Omitting this contingency could have been a major issue for his client.
Another example of how an inexperienced agent can blow a deal is by not understanding the “norms” of how an offer process works or not taking the time to find out how an agent is handling a multiple offer situation. If the listing agent doesn’t set an appropriate deadline, or doesn’t get back to buyer agents, buyers agents won’t know how to proceed.
As a result, a seller could miss out on additional offers that would have escalated in price, leaving tens of thousands of dollars on the table for the seller.
We had a recent situation where a client was ready to accept a full price offer on their property over the weekend. However, we could tell based on the interest we were getting that by waiting until Monday and setting a deadline time that all agents were made aware of, that they would get more money. By waiting, we were able to get them an additional $30,000 with no home inspection negotiation (saving them from having to make repairs) and no appraisal contingency. Knowing the pulse of the market, we got a much better deal for our client.
Similarly, if a buyer agent doesn’t know enough to let the listing agent know that their clients have interest, they could miss out on the property. Time and again, we’ve had buyer agents call us weeks after our listings go under contract letting us know that their clients were interested, even though they had never been in touch. Inexperienced buyer agents can be detrimental if they don’t know how to find out about properties before they hit the active marker, to pull the appropriate comps, to best present the offer in multiple offer scenarios, or which types of inspections to schedule. There is a lot that an inexperienced agent just doesn’t know.
THE BOTTOM LINE. Picking a real estate agent is a major decision. It can directly affect both your bottom line and your ability to buy or sell a house in the time and manner that works for you. As we’ve shown, there are a wide variety of agents in the business. Most are wonderful to work with, but there are still many – and especially in the spring market – that put their clients in tough situations that could cost them money. Often, the client doesn’t even know it. It’s critical to carefully think through who you are working with to buy or sell.
Allison Goodhart DuShuttle is lead agent for The Goodhart Group, Alexandria’s and McEnearney Associates’ top producing real estate team. In 2015, she was nationally recognized by Realtor Magazine, being named to its “30 Under 30” club. Allison can be reached at 703-362-3221 or [email protected].
Real Estate
April showers bring May flowers in life — and in real estate
Third time’s the charm for buyer plagued with problems
Working in the real estate sector in D.C. can be as uniquely “D.C.” as the residents feel about their own city. On any given day, someone could be selling a home that their grandmother bought, passed on to the relatives, and the transfer of generational wealth continues. In that same transaction, the beginning steps of building of generational wealth could be taking place.
Across town, an international buyer could be looking for a condo with very specific characteristics that remind them of the way things are “back home.” Maybe they want to live in a building with a pool because they grew up by the sea. Maybe they want a large kitchen so they can cook grandma’s recipes. Maybe they will be on MSNBC once a month and need to have a home office fit for those Zoom sessions where they will be live on air, or recording their podcast. Perhaps they play the saxophone and want a building with thick walls so they can make a joyful noise without causing their neighbors to file a cease-and-desist order.
What I found fascinating was getting to know my buyers. Why were they purchasing their property? What did they want to do with it? Was this their grandmother’s dream that they would have a place of their own someday? Did they finally think they would write that award-winning play in the home office? What dreams were going to be fulfilled while taking part in this transaction?
Somedays, the muck and paperwork slog of navigating home inspection items and financing checklists could get to be distracting at best, and almost downright disheartening at worst.
One of my clients was under contract on THREE places before we finally closed on a home. One building was discovered to have financing issues, and the residents were not keeping up with their condo fees. Another building had an issue with the title to the unit, which meant the seller could not sell the home for at least another year until that legal snag was resolved. As the months rolled by, she was losing heart and feeling defeated. When we finally found the third home, everything seemed great – and then about two weeks before the settlement, the rains came down and the windows leaked into the bedrooms.
Another delay. (Our THIRD). This time, for several more weeks.
I think she wanted to pack a suitcase, go to the airport, get on a plane somewhere and never come back. What ultimately happened? The building repaired the windows, the seller’s insurance replaced the hardwood floors, and she bought her first condo, which she still enjoys to this day.
As Dolly Parton says, “If you want the rainbow, you’ve got to put up with a little rain.” And finally, after months of looking, waiting, and overcoming obstacles, the rainbow peeked out from behind the clouds.
Joseph Hudson is a referral agent with Metro Referrals. He can be reached at 703-587-0597 or [email protected].
Real Estate
Spring updates to sell your home for pride and profit
Consider new landscaping, power washing, creative staging
Selling a home is a big deal for anyone, but for members of the LGBTQ+ community, it comes with unique considerations—from finding affirming professionals to ensuring your home is represented in a way that reflects your values. Whether you’re a first-time gay home seller or a seasoned LGBTQ+ homeowner looking to move up, maximizing your home’s value is key to a successful and empowering sale.
Here’s how to prepare your home, your mindset, and your real estate strategy to get the most value—financially and emotionally—from your home sale.
1. Start with an LGBTQ+-Friendly Real Estate Agent
Before diving into renovations or staging, make sure your agent truly understands your needs. A gay-friendly or LGBTQ+-affirming real estate agent brings more than just market expertise—they bring cultural competence, safety awareness, and a network that supports you throughout the selling process.
At GayRealEstate.com, you can find experienced, vetted LGBTQ+ real estate agents who have been proudly serving the community for over 30 years. Working with someone who shares or supports your identity ensures your selling journey is respectful, inclusive, and effective.
2. Enhance Curb Appeal—With a Welcoming Vibe
The outside of your home is the first impression a potential buyer gets. Make it count—especially for LGBTQ+ buyers looking for a home that feels safe and welcoming.
- Fresh landscaping: Add colorful flowers, neatly trimmed shrubs, or low-maintenance greenery to appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
- Update the entrance: A new front door, stylish lighting, or even a rainbow doormat can make your home feel like a safe space from the start.
- Clean and repair: Power wash the exterior, touch up paint, and make any necessary repairs to gutters, windows, or siding.
3. Stage with Intention and Inclusivity
Home staging can add thousands to your sale price. But beyond the usual decluttering and neutral palettes, think about how your space tells a story—and who it’s telling it to.
- Create a warm, inclusive feel: Subtle touches like LGBTQ+ art, books, or even coffee table magazines can show off your personality and affirm the space for queer buyers.
- Depersonalize—but don’t erase: You don’t need to hide your identity to appeal to buyers. Let your home feel lived in and loved—while still being a blank canvas others can imagine themselves in.
- Highlight multi-use areas: Home offices, gender-neutral nurseries, or flex spaces resonate with LGBTQ+ families and professionals.
4. Update Kitchens and Bathrooms Strategically
These rooms matter most to buyers—and even small updates can yield big returns.
- Kitchen: New cabinet hardware, a fresh backsplash, and modern lighting can elevate the entire room without a full remodel.
- Bathroom: Replace old fixtures, re-caulk tubs and sinks, and add plush towels and inclusive décor.
- Energy-efficient upgrades: Touchless faucets, smart appliances, or low-flow toilets are not only trendy—they signal sustainability, which matters to LGBTQ+ buyers.
5. Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
LGBTQ+ homebuyers often prioritize sustainability. These updates not only reduce energy bills but make your home more marketable.
- Install a smart thermostat (like Nest or Ecobee)
- Upgrade insulation or windows
- Consider solar panels (especially in sun-drenched regions like California or Florida)
Bonus: You may qualify for state or federal tax credits, which can be a great selling point.
6. Know and Advocate for LGBTQ+ Housing Rights
Although housing discrimination is illegal under the Fair Housing Act, it still happens. As an LGBTQ+ seller, be aware of your rights—and those of potential buyers.
- Avoid steering or bias: Even with good intentions, make sure you’re not inadvertently influencing who views or buys your home based on identity.
- Work with affirming professionals: From inspectors to lenders, choose partners who support inclusive practices.
- Report discrimination: If you or a buyer encounters bias, report it to HUD or your local housing authority.
7. Price Your Home Right—and Market It Smartly
Setting the right price is essential to maximizing value. Your LGBTQ+-friendly agent can run a comparative market analysis, considering current trends and buyer demographics.
- Leverage LGBTQ+ real estate networks: Promote your home through platforms like GayRealEstate.com to reach an audience that understands and values your space.
- Use inclusive language in listings: Avoid gendered terms or heteronormative assumptions. Instead of “his and hers closets,” use “dual walk-ins” or “double closets.”
- High-quality photos and video tours: Showcase your home with professional, visually inclusive marketing that appeals to diverse buyers.
8. Consider Timing and Local LGBTQ+ Trends
Selling during WorldPride or just before local LGBTQ+ events may boost visibility. Also consider if you’re in or near an LGBTQ+ friendly city or neighborhood.
Not sure which areas are top destinations? GayRelocation.com tracks and shares the best cities for LGBTQ+ homebuyers, helping you tap into motivated buyers.
Final Thought: Sell with Confidence—and Community
Selling your home isn’t just about getting top dollar—it’s about closing a chapter with pride and integrity. When you center your values, work with LGBTQ+ affirming experts, and prepare your home with purpose, you’re not just maximizing your home’s value—you’re creating an empowering experience for yourself and the next owner.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or both—GayRealEstate.com is your trusted partner in every step of your journey. With a nationwide network of gay and lesbian realtors, decades of experience, and deep community ties, we ensure your home transition is safe, smart, and full of pride.
GayRealEstate.com is the nation’s leading online platform connecting LGBTQ+ home buyers and sellers with LGBTQ+ friendly real estate agents, ensuring a safe and supportive experience.
Scott Helms is president of GayRealEstate.com. To find an agent or learn more, visit GayRealEstate.com, GayRelocation.com or call 1-888-420-MOVE.
Real Estate
Navigating DMV real estate market during political unrest
Reductions in federal employment have introduced uncertainties
The Washington, D.C.-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) region has long been recognized for its robust housing market, underpinned by the presence of the federal government and a diverse economic landscape. Recent massive reductions in federal employment have introduced uncertainties, yet the area continues to offer compelling reasons for prospective homebuyers, particularly within diverse communities.
While the federal government has traditionally been a significant employer in the DMV, the region has proactively diversified its economic base. Sectors such as technology, professional services, education, and healthcare have expanded, mitigating the impact of federal job cuts. This diversification fosters some economic resilience, which offers our area a semblance of protection against the impending unknowns that we currently face. Nothing can shield real estate entirely; however, our area tends to survive these types of changes better than other parts of the country.
Despite concerns over federal layoffs, the DMV housing market has demonstrated notable stability. Analyses indicate that the number of active listings, sold properties, and median sales prices have remained steady on a year-over-year basis. This steadiness suggests that the market is adapting to changes without significant disruption.
Furthermore, while there has been a slight increase in home listings, this trend aligns with typical seasonal variations and does not solely reflect federal employment changes. The luxury property segment, in particular, continues to thrive, indicating sustained interest and investment in the region.
The DMV region is renowned for its cultural and demographic diversity, with areas like Montgomery County, Md., being among the most ethnically diverse in the nation. This inclusivity extends to various communities, including LGBTQ individuals, fostering a welcoming environment that enhances the area’s appeal. Even though the current administration is fostering anti-diversity ideology, I remain confident that our LGBTQ community will continue to thrive even as these destructive forces work against us.
Local governments within the DMV have implemented policies aimed at promoting affordable housing and preventing displacement, particularly in the wake of economic shifts. Initiatives like the Douglass Community Land Trust in Washington, D.C., exemplify efforts to maintain housing affordability and support community stability.
Additionally, jurisdictions such as Montgomery County have longstanding Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) programs that require developers to include affordable housing in new residential developments. These policies contribute to socioeconomically mixed neighborhoods, benefiting diverse populations.
Despite Elon Musk’s brandishing of a chainsaw to the federal workforce, our real estate market continues to thrive. The DMV region maintains its appeal. Economic diversification, market stability, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and progressive housing policies collectively contribute to an environment that supports and attracts diverse communities. Prospective homebuyers can find reassurance in the region’s resilience and ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive and vibrant community. These are only a few among the many reasons to have a positive outlook while considering real estate options in our area.
It is important to consider working with brokerages, brokers, agents, lenders and title companies who align with our community and our objectives. Not all LGBTQ agents work for brokerages that support or understand the needs of the members of our community. Do your research and find out who has donated money to what political causes. Now more than ever we must support members of our community to protect our way of life and our very existence.
Stacey Williams-Zeiger is president/principal broker of Zeiger Realty Inc. Reach her at [email protected].
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