Should You Use a Friend as Your Real Estate Agent? Here's What to Consider
When it’s time to buy or sell a home, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the right real estate agent. If you have a friend in the industry, the idea of working with them might seem like an obvious choice. After all, they already know you and you trust them, so why not?
Still, you’ve probably seen articles warning against mixing business and friendship. Concerns usually center around inexperience, emotional tension if something goes wrong, or difficulty giving honest feedback. And while those are valid points to consider, working with a friend can actually be a major advantage—if it’s the right friend.
Let’s explore some of the potential benefits (and a few things to keep in mind) when hiring a friend as your real estate agent.
The Upside: Why Hiring a Friend Can Work in Your Favor
Built-In Trust
Trust is the foundation of any strong client-agent relationship. With a friend, that trust already exists. You’re less likely to question their motives and more likely to feel confident that they’re being honest with you every step of the way. That peace of mind can make a high-stress process much smoother.
Personalized Service
A friend is often more invested in your success than a stranger would be. They know what matters to you—whether it’s finding a home in a specific school district or selling quickly due to a life change—and they’ll tailor their approach to fit your goals.
They Understand You
Beyond preferences, a friend understands your personality, communication style, and even your quirks. This can help them better anticipate your needs and guide you through the process in a way that feels natural and supportive.
More Comfortable Communication
Let’s face it—real estate can get emotional. Whether it’s the stress of showings, negotiations, or last-minute hurdles, you may find it easier to express your frustrations or fears to someone you already have a strong connection with.
Flexible and Responsive
Friends are often more willing to be flexible with scheduling, texts after hours, or talking you through a tough decision on a weekend. That level of responsiveness can make a big difference in today’s fast-moving market.
Fierce Loyalty
A good friend-turned-agent won’t just want to close a deal—they’ll want to protect your best interest above all. You can count on them to be upfront, honest, and to advocate for you just as they would for a family member.
A Word of Caution: Protecting the Friendship
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. What happens if things get complicated? Maybe your home doesn’t sell as quickly as expected, or you disagree on pricing or strategy. Tensions can rise in any transaction, and if the lines between personal and professional blur, it could impact your relationship.
To prevent that, here are a few tips:
Have an honest conversation upfront. Talk about expectations, roles, and how you’ll handle feedback or challenges.
Make sure they’re qualified. Even the best friendship can’t replace experience, market knowledge, or negotiation skills. Make sure your friend is up to the task.
Treat it like a business relationship. Just because you're friends doesn't mean you should skip formal agreements or timelines. Keep everything professional to protect both parties.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, using a friend as your real estate agent can be a smart move—if you choose someone who’s experienced, communicative, and aligned with your goals. The trust, comfort, and dedication they bring to the table can elevate your experience and help you feel supported throughout the entire process.
Just be sure to approach it with clear expectations and open communication. That way, you’ll protect both your investment and your friendship.