Should You Use a Friend or Family Member as Your Realtor? Here’s the Truth.

Intro Vid

Let’s talk about something that comes up a lot in real estate:
“My friend just got their license, should I use them?”
Or worse…
“My cousin's best friend’s niece is in real estate now!”
Cue the awkward silence.

Look, we get it. Loyalty runs deep. You want to support the people you care about, and hey, that’s noble. But when it comes to one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, there’s one thing you don’t want: regret wrapped in a favor.

Using Someone You Know: It’s Not Always a Bad Idea…

If your friend or family member is a seasoned agent, backed by a strong team, and has a proven track record in your local market…go for it. Loyalty and competence? That’s a dream combo.

But too often, people pick someone just because they know them, not because they’re the best fit. And that’s where things can go sideways.

🚩 Red Flags That You Might Be Gambling With Your Transaction:

1. They just got licensed last week.
   We all have to start somewhere but experience matters. Especially when the stakes are six figures or more.

2. They aren’t backed by a strong broker or team.
   A solo rookie without mentorship is like jumping out of a plane with a DIY parachute. Cool idea. Dangerous execution.

3. They’re part-time or treat it like a hobby.
   There’s a difference between someone who casually “does real estate on the side” and a driven professional who treats it like a second career. If your agent is juggling real estate between brunch and Netflix, you’re not a priority, you’re an afterthought. But if they’re showing up with discipline, strategy, and full-time-level commitment (even while balancing another profession), that’s a different story entirely. You need someone who’s all in even if it’s not their only gig.

4. They get defensive when you ask questions.
   A confident, competent agent welcomes questions. If they brush you off or act like you’re being “extra” …RED FLAG

5. They offer zero strategy.
   If their plan is just “list it and see what happens” or “we’ll just go look around and see what you like” …RUN.

What You Should Expect From a Realtor…Friend or Not

• Tailored strategy sessions that aren’t copy-paste templates

• In-depth local knowledge, not just of homes, but builders, resale potential, neighborhood trends, and schools

• Full-time communication and accountability

• A white-glove, stress-free experience that leaves you feeling like a VIP…not a guinea pig

• And most of all, someone who puts your goals ahead of their commission

Bottom Line: Don’t Settle for Loyalty Over Quality

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to help a friend or family member get their foot in the door. ust make sure that you’re not the test run. Real estate is business and smart clients treat it that way.

If your people are qualified and ready, awesome…use them. But if there’s even a hint of hesitation, it’s okay to say:
“I love you, but I need someone who can deliver results at the highest level.”

And that’s where I come in.
No fluff. No pressure. No gimmicks.
Just trusted, strategic, and experienced service that puts your outcome first.

Ready to make a smart move?
Let’s talk…whether you’re just curious or ready to dive in.
Start Smarter with Hartman →