7 Habits That Can Undermine Your Superpowers as an Agent

Even some of Marvel’s greatest heroes know that overcoming their flaws can be part of saving the day. As an agent, you always try to guide clients to a good outcome, but even the best can make mistakes. Inspired by the resilient heroes from Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps, here are seven tips from Zillow partner agents that you can use to clobber your personal villains and emerge as a fantastic partner to your clients.

1. Withholding information about a listing

Omitting details about a home — or deciding for your client what they “should” know — erodes trust and can even violate laws. Today’s clients expect full transparency, and with so much information available online, they’ll likely find out anyway. Share all relevant details openly so they feel informed and respected.

Superhero wisdom: Knowledge is power and transparency is key.

2. Delaying bad news

In real estate, bad news is inevitable during many transactions. Some bad news will require a decision right away from the client. Other news requires your own immediate action after you inform the client. Either way, delivering bad news with urgency, and respecting your clients enough to do it in person if you can, makes you look compassionate, proactive, and on the ball.

Superhero wisdom: Don’t let problems flare up, address them before they ignite.

3. Being careless with paperwork

From inspection deadlines to loan documents, clients depend on you to keep everything on track. Missed deadlines, sloppy contracts, or error-filled emails reflect poorly on your professionalism. Another common culprit: Always remember to include attachments if you reference any in emails. Your attention to detail protects both your clients and your reputation.

Superhero wisdom: Details are your force field; don’t let cracks show.

4. Ignoring clients or being unavailable

Clients need to feel that you’re in their corner and ready when they need you. They expect prompt responses and clear communication. Even if you can’t reply immediately, let them know when you’ll follow up. Also, let your clients know your regular schedule, when you are available, and how they can reach you if you’re away on vacation or for an extended period of time).

Superhero wisdom: Stay present. Your clients need their hero to answer the call.

5. Keeping clients in the dark about your strategy

Clients want to feel involved in the process, not left guessing. Explain your marketing or negotiation strategy upfront. Give them visibility into all the legwork you’re doing on their behalf so they know you are dedicated to helping them and have forged a pathway to success.

Superhero wisdom: A good plan beats a secret plan every time.

6. Appearing disinterested or uninformed

Listening is crucial, as is knowing your market. Recommending homes outside their budget, being vague about pricing, or lacking insight into neighborhoods makes you appear unprepared. Like any hero facing a challenge, you need to do your training before the battle begins.

Superhero wisdom: Heroes do their homework before battle.

7. Failing to manage expectations

Overpromising or being vague about timelines, outcomes, or responsibilities can leave clients feeling disappointed or misled. Clear, honest expectations build confidence and reduce frustration. Following through on your shared expectations is also a great way to earn a positive review.

Superhero wisdom: Set clear expectations and deliver on them.

Note: The content in this article is for informational purposes only and intended to contain best practices - results will vary; you are not required to use them in order to use any of Zillow’s products and nothing in this guide is intended to be legal or professional advice. You are responsible for ensuring your own compliance with applicable laws. For specific questions about any duties or obligations arising out of a real estate transaction, check your local and state licensing laws and regulations.