8 Common Client Texts Every Real Estate Agent Encounters

Let’s be real: if you’ve been in real estate for more than a week, you’ve probably received at least one text that made you pause, stare at your phone, and then… just keep going about your day. 😅

Whether it’s a misunderstanding about the Zestimate, an unexpected request to slash your commission, or a cousin’s opinion about staging—every real estate agent has that one client text that lives rent-free in their brain.

This post is all about laughing through the chaos of real estate life, while also reinforcing why having boundaries and systems in place as an agent is essential.

(And no—this isn’t to make fun of clients. We love our clients. But sometimes… well, you’ll see.)

1. “We actually already put in an offer with the listing agent. It was accepted!!! Thanks tho!”

Oof. This one hurts — especially when you’ve spent hours showing homes, answering questions, and building trust.

The lesson here? Some buyers still don’t understand agency representation. And while it’s frustrating, it’s also a reminder to clearly explain your role from day one. A solid buyer consultation (and signed agreement) can help prevent this from happening.

👉 What you could post:
“Why working with your own buyer’s agent could save you from costly mistakes. Here’s how.”

2. “My cousin said we shouldn’t pay for staging because it’s all fake furniture.”

Cousin Karen strikes again.

Staging isn’t just “fake furniture.” It’s a strategic marketing move. Homes that are staged tend to sell faster and for more money — period.

The challenge? Helping sellers see the difference between opinion and professional advice.

👉 What you could post:
“Why your cousin’s real estate advice is probably costing you money.”

3. “We want to offer $200k under asking. You never know!”

Technically… you don’t know. But also: please no.

Yes, submitting lowball offers is part of the game sometimes, but agents also need to maintain professionalism and protect their clients from being dismissed entirely.

This kind of message often comes from watching too many real estate shows or reading one too many “how to get a deal” blog posts.

👉 What you could post:
“Lowballing 101: Why making an ultra-low offer could actually backfire.”

4. “But the Zestimate says our home is worth about $300k more…”

Zillow… we need to talk.

While Zestimate can be a helpful starting point, it doesn't consider the nuances of condition, upgrades, comps, or market shifts. Yet, many homeowners take it as gospel.

This message is your sign to educate before you estimate.

👉 What you could post:
“Zestimate vs. Reality: How we price homes the right way.”

5. “The other agent is willing to do it for 2%.”

Ah yes, the commission negotiation text.

This isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about the value you bring — experience, strategy, marketing, negotiation skills, and peace of mind.

The key here is confidence in your value and being okay walking away from clients who don’t see it.

👉 What you could post:
“The cheapest agent might end up costing you the most. Here’s why.”

6. “My dad looked at it on Zillow and said the Zestimate is actually way less than what we offered… can we go back and offer lower?”

Double trouble: mixing Zestimates with emotional influences.

We get it — dads just want to protect their kids. But again, this is why agents need to take control of the narrative and provide clear, data-backed advice early in the process.

👉 What you could post:
“What to do when your dad, cousin, coworker, and barista give you home-buying advice.”

7. “I know we agreed to pay you 3% but we’re really stretching on this one, so can you discount to 2%?”

This one’s tricky. Empathy is important, but so is honoring your value and the agreement you both signed.

Discounting under pressure often leads to scope creep and sets the wrong tone for the relationship. Stand firm with compassion — and have a policy in place.

👉 What you could post:
“Your agent’s commission doesn’t just pay for their time. Here’s what it actually covers.”

8. “Hey, can we go see that house real quick? I know it’s under contract already. We just want to see it.”

Buyers can be spontaneous — and that’s okay.

But it’s your job to educate on process and boundaries. Touring a home that’s already under contract just for fun isn’t a great use of your time (unless there’s a backup offer strategy in play).

It’s okay to say no. Professional doesn’t mean 24/7 availability.

👉 What you could post:
“3 ways your agent protects your time (and theirs) during the home search process.”

Why We’re Sharing These Texts (And What to Do About Them)

This article isn’t just for laughs. It’s a reminder that real estate is an emotional, human-centered business.

Agents are often:

• Interpreters of internet misinformation
  

• Therapists for family dynamics
  

• Negotiators, marketers, advisors, and boundary-setters
  

And all of that comes with texts like these.

The solution isn’t to rant (though that’s fun). It’s to:
✅ Educate consistently
✅ Set expectations early
✅ Have go-to scripts and content ready
✅ Laugh about it with your real estate besties when it’s over

Want Content That Preps Clients Before They Send That Text?

You’re not alone — and you don’t have to wing it. The Agent Toolkit gives you ready-to-post content that educates your clients before they ghost you, lowball, or bring Zillow into the conversation. 

Whether you're attracting buyers, nurturing sellers, or handling those awkward texts — we've got content that keeps your professionalism intact and your personality front and center.