Why Don't Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones? (2024)

Why Don’t Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones? Top 9 Reasons

One of the biggest complaints from people looking to buy or sell a home is that real estate agents don’t answer their phones. The reality is agents aren’t available 24-7, so there will be times when they can’t answer their phones. Below are the 9 most common reasons real estate agents don’t answer their phones.

Why Don't Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones? (1)

9 Reasons Why Agents Don’t Answer Their Phone

With a Client
When real estate agents are with a client a majority of them will not answer their phone because they want to give their client their undivided attention. Now, there are times when a real estate agent is expecting an important call and will need to step away and answer their phone. However, they will let their client know ahead of time that they will have to excuse themselves to take a call. With that being said, it’s unlikely an agent will stop what they’re doing to answer the phone when with a client.

Why Don't Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones? (2)On the Other Line
Real estate agents and phones go together like peanut butter and jelly. So odds are when you see a real estate agent they’ll be on their phone or have their phone within reach. Some people are under the impression the only thing agents do is show homes.

The reality is a lot of them are on the phone all day talking to clients, prospective clients, lenders, inspectors, title agents, attorneys, or appraisers. So when the other line beeps it may be sent to voicemail. A few agents may try to end the call they’re on and switch lines, but others will not.

Driving
Even with speakerphones and other hands-free devices, not all real estate agents answer their phones while driving, which is understandable. Some will pull over and call the person back. While others will wait until they reach their destination or later in the day when they have time.

In the Bathroom
This one really doesn’t need an explanation, wouldn’t you prefer a real estate agent call you back when they’re out of the bathroom?

With Family
While many real estate agents answer their phones if they’re not with a client, some are extremely good at setting boundaries. So when they’re spending quality time with their family or friends they may not answer their phone.

If you are one of the many people wondering why don't real estate agents answer phones here are the top 9 reasons you may get their voicemail. #realestateClick to Tweet

Getting a Massage or Playing Golf
A big misconception the general public has about real estate agents is they work from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday with a 5-hour lunch. However, in reality, some agents are pulling in 14-16 hour days 7 days a week. So when they have availability on Tuesday at 11:00 am they may treat themselves to a round of golf or a massage and won’t be answering their phone.

Don’t Want to Talk
Sometimes agents don’t care who’s calling they just don’t want to talk, so they don’t answer their phone. Yes, even real estate agents need a break once in a while.

Why Don't Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones? (3)Blocked Number
In the age of caller id some agents won’t answer their phone if the callers’ phone number is blocked. While some of these callers aren’t intentionally blocking their numbers others are, such as telemarketers or people who don’t want the agent to have their information.

Time is money in real estate, so not many agents want to spend time on the phone with a telemarketer or a person who is intentionally hiding their identity.

Sleeping
Real estate is international and not every caller will be in the same time zone, so they may call during off-hours when an agent is sleeping. Then there may be a few local buyers who will find their dream home at 2:00 am on a Wednesday and want to call the agent immediately.

Regardless of who’s calling only a few agents may answer their phone while they’re sleeping. However, probably only if it’s an expected call otherwise their phone will be turned off.

Final Thoughts

Answering our phones isn’t always an option. So when your call goes to voicemail leave a message, don’t keep calling until we answer. I’ve been in situations where I wasn’t in a position to answer my phone. However, the caller kept calling to the point I thought there was an emergency. In some cases, I ended up answering after the 10th call, but every time I answered it was nothing of importance. In fact, it was usually someone trying to sell services for real estate agents or people who already have an agent.

If you think this article, Why Don’t Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phone? Here are 9 Reasons, was an interesting read please give it a share!

If you are one of the many people wondering why don't real estate agents answer phones here are the top 9 reasons you may get their voicemail. #realestateClick to Tweet

Additional Real Estate Advice

  • Did you hire the wrong listing agent? Kyle Hisco*ck shares 10 signs to determine if you hired the wrong agent.
  • Not all real estate agents are efficient or effective, but here are 7 habits of highly effective agentsfrom Bill Gassett
  • Sharon Paxson explains whynot answering the phone can lead to disaster when trying to sell your home. It’s imperative both sellers and real estate agents answer their phones or return calls in a timely manner.

About the Author

Top Wellington Realtor, Michelle Gibson, wrote:“Why Don’t Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phone? Here are 9 Reasons”

Michelle has been specializing in residential real estate since 2001 throughoutWellington Floridaand the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent she will guide you through the entire real estate transaction. If you’re ready to put Michelle’s knowledge and expertise to work for you call or e-mail her today.

Areas of service includeWellington,Lake Worth,Royal Palm Beach,Boynton Beach,West Palm Beach,Loxahatchee,Greenacres, and more.

Why Don’t Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones?

As a seasoned real estate professional with years of experience in the field, I understand the intricacies and challenges that real estate agents face daily. My expertise is not merely theoretical; it comes from firsthand knowledge gained through years of actively participating in real estate transactions, interacting with clients, and navigating the dynamic landscape of the industry.

Now, delving into the article about why real estate agents don't answer their phones, I can provide a comprehensive breakdown of the key concepts discussed:

  1. With a Client: Real estate agents prioritize providing undivided attention to their clients during property viewings or meetings. They often avoid answering phones to ensure a focused and meaningful interaction.

  2. On the Other Line: Real estate agents are extensively engaged in phone conversations throughout the day with clients, prospective clients, lenders, inspectors, title agents, attorneys, and appraisers. The sheer volume of calls may lead some to let calls go to voicemail or switch lines.

  3. Driving: Despite the availability of speakerphones and hands-free devices, not all agents answer calls while driving due to safety concerns. Some prefer to pull over or wait until they reach their destination.

  4. In the Bathroom: A humorous yet practical point, emphasizing the preference for returning calls when not in the middle of personal activities.

  5. With Family: Real estate agents, like anyone else, value quality time with family and friends. Some agents set boundaries during such moments and may choose not to answer calls.

  6. Getting a Massage or Playing Golf: Dispelling the misconception of a 9-to-5 workday, some real estate agents work long hours and may take breaks, such as playing golf or getting a massage, during unconventional times.

  7. Don't Want to Talk: Agents, like everyone else, occasionally need a break from conversations and may choose not to answer calls when they simply don't feel like talking.

  8. Blocked Number: With the prevalence of caller ID, some agents may ignore calls from blocked numbers, often to avoid telemarketers or individuals intentionally hiding their identity.

  9. Sleeping: Real estate is an international business, and agents may receive calls at odd hours. However, only a few would answer while sleeping, and that too, likely for expected calls.

The article concludes by emphasizing that answering phones isn't always feasible and encourages callers to leave a message instead of persistently calling. The author shares personal experiences, highlighting instances where repeated calls didn't yield urgent matters but were often sales pitches or non-essential inquiries.

In essence, the article provides valuable insights into the daily challenges and routines of real estate agents, shedding light on why they might not always be readily available to answer phone calls.

Why Don't Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones? (2024)

FAQs

Why Don't Real Estate Agents Answer Their Phones? ›

You're with Other Clients

Why do real estate agents not answer the phone? ›

The call ends up at the brokerage office: If your real estate agent works with a brokerage firm, all client communication may be directed via the office. In most cases, they do not want to have their cell phones ringing constantly and would rather prefer working with clients on the field.

Why do estate agents not reply? ›

Maybe they think you expect to much out of the house? The other reason I can think of is they no longer want to be in real estate and are not responding to anyone. Sometimes you may have a listing in an undesirable area, or the agent just isn't hungry enough.

Why do realtors not call back? ›

If you have called an agent and they didn't call back or it seemed like forever, there is probably a good reason. They could be with a client, in a closing or other meeting, driving, couldn't understand or had no way to return the call. We want to help you spot the home of your dreams.

Why is my realtor ignoring me? ›

A good real estate agent could be working with several clients at a time, at different stages of a home sale transaction. When an agent is with a client showing homes or hosting an open house, it can be difficult to answer the phone because they want to be present and value that client's time and yours.

How do you deal with an unresponsive realtor? ›

Your realtor has to be accessible and working with your best interests in mind in order for the transaction to go as smoothly as possible. If your realtor will not respond to your calls, it might be time to fire them and work with someone else.

Why do most real estate agents fail? ›

Key Takeaways: Most real estate agents fail in their first year, according to research. Three common mistakes that agents make is inadequate prospecting, failing to market properties in ways that lead to fast sales, and not following up with clients.

How should a real estate agent answer the phone? ›

Cell Phone Tips for Realtors
  1. Smile when answering the phone – Smiling, even if no one is looking, instantly lifts your mood. ...
  2. Begin with your name – Answering the call with your name ensures the caller doesn't have to wonder whether they dialed the correct number and makes you more efficient in conducting business.

Do estate agents have a bad reputation? ›

In a survey of 1,154 UK adults back in 2021, we learned that just 1% of people think estate agents are trustworthy.

Do most real estate agents cold call? ›

Here are a few statistics to show it does: As many as 28% of cold calls are answered. Over 57% of real estate agents claim that telemarketing is the best lead-generation technique. Real estate agents admit that 50% of their leads come from cold calling.

What is the most common complaint filed against realtors? ›

Meseck, the most common complaints involve:
  • Septic systems.
  • Solar leases.
  • Failure to disclose and Seller's Property Disclosures.
  • Water rights.
  • Miscommunication.
  • Agent-owned property and additional supervision.
  • Multiple offers.
  • Unpermitted work.

Why do realtors have a bad reputation? ›

The lack of experience among some realtors contributes significantly to the negative reputation. Clients who encounter agents with limited expertise might face inadequate guidance, incorrect information, and ineffective negotiation skills. This lack of proficiency tarnishes the overall perception of the profession.

Why are realtors cold calling me? ›

Purpose of cold calling in real estate

Realtors use cold calling to generate new leads, meet people who may want to buy or sell their homes and schedule meetings with interested customers. After a brief conversation, a real estate agent can turn a complete stranger into a paying client.

What is unethical realtor behavior? ›

Unethical agents will often use fraudulent misrepresentation to win a listing, sell a property faster, or push for a property to sell faster. Such actions violate ethical standards and are illegal in many jurisdictions.

Is it smart to not use a realtor? ›

If you want to buy a home without a real estate agent, it won't necessarily save you any money. In most situations, a seller pays the commission for both the seller's and buyer's agents at closing. But there might be situations in which it works to your advantage to go it alone in the home buying process.

Why do people quit being a realtor? ›

Having false expectations in real estate can be catastrophic. It is the number one reason why people quit the business. It is important to keep a goal mindset and to get rid of any expectations you may have.

Do realtors make cold calls? ›

Cold calling is the second most effective prospecting method for realtors. 68 percent of real estate professionals are able to successfully follow up after a cold call.

Should real estate agents cold call? ›

Keeping your funnel full is key to a successful career in real estate. At the end of the day, real estate cold calling is a numbers game. The more cold calling you do, the more people you'll reach - which means more contacts, more leads, and eventually, more sales.

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