The Real Estate Dos and Don’ts Every Professional Should Know: Why Collaboration Matters More Than Competition
The real estate industry is built on relationships, service, and trust—but too often, Realtors view each other as competitors instead of colleagues working toward the same goal. As Mauricio Umansky has emphasized many times, the most successful agents understand that cooperation, not conflict, produces the best outcomes for clients and for the industry as a whole. After 31 years in this business, I couldn’t agree more.
Unfortunately, the reality is that many Realtors deal with unnecessary drama week after week. I see cut-throat tactics, dishonesty, manipulation, agents talking poorly about others, and even attempts to steal clients or interfere in transactions. Not only is this unprofessional, but it damages the reputation of our entire industry. None of these behaviors help clients. None of them move deals forward. None of them reflect the professionalism that buyers and sellers expect.
This can change. And it starts with us.
Let’s choose to be better. Let’s raise the standard.
Let’s always put the needs of our clients first, and that way everyone wins.
Below are essential dos and don’ts that every Realtor should follow to elevate our profession and restore integrity to this business.
The Do's of Being a Professional Realtor
1. Treat Fellow Realtors as Colleagues, Not Competition
Two agents working together create a smoother, faster, more successful outcome than two agents working against each other. Respect across the board leads to better results for everyone involved.
2. Communicate Clearly, Truthfully, and Consistently
Clients expect accuracy, timeliness, and transparency. So do other agents. When communication breaks down, frustration grows and deals fall apart.
3. Keep Emotions and Ego Out of the Transaction
Real estate can be emotional, but agents must remain steady. Negotiations should be strategic and solution-focused—not personal battles or power struggles.
4. Prioritize the Client’s Best Interest
This business is not about winning arguments. It’s not about proving a point. It’s not about showing dominance over another agent. Our only job is to represent, protect, and guide the client with integrity.
5. Continue Professional Education
Market trends change. Contract law changes. Technology shifts. Great Realtors stay knowledgeable so clients receive the most current guidance.
6. Build Strong, Honest Relationships With Industry Professionals
Lenders, inspectors, appraisers, title companies, and contractors all play a role in a successful closing. Treat them—and your fellow agents—with respect.
7. Present Yourself With Professionalism at All Times
Your behavior, your language, your marketing, and the way you treat others all reflect your reputation. Protect it.
The Don’ts of Being a Realtor
1. Don’t Lie, Manipulate, or Misrepresent Information
It breaks trust and destroys credibility. Once your reputation is questioned, it’s very hard to repair.
2. Don’t Talk Badly About Fellow Agents
This is unprofessional, damaging, and unnecessary. Clients notice this behavior—and it reflects poorly on the person doing it, not the person being targeted.
3. Don’t Steal Clients or Interfere in Other Agents’ Deals
Interference, poaching leads, or undermining another agent is unethical and violates code of conduct standards. Respect existing relationships.
4. Don’t Let Ego Drive the Negotiation
Your job is not to “win.” Your job is to close successfully, ethically, and with your client’s best interest at heart.
5. Don’t Spread Drama, Gossip, or False Information
Real estate is a small industry. Word travels fast. Protect your reputation and the reputation of your brokerage.
6. Don’t Overpromise or Mislead Your Client
Honesty builds trust. Overpromising sets unrealistic expectations and damages the client relationship.
7. Don’t Be Uncooperative or Difficult
A lack of cooperation helps no one—not your client, not the other side, not your brokerage, and certainly not your reputation. Stay solution-oriented.
Closing Statement
Real estate is not a battlefield—it is a collaborative profession built on professionalism, integrity, and service. When Realtors choose honesty over ego, communication over conflict, and collaboration over competition, the entire industry elevates. Deals close smoother. Clients feel supported. Agents build stronger relationships. And everyone wins.
This is the culture we believe in at The Agency. Built on a foundation of collaboration, respect, and shared success, The Agency has redefined what it means to work together in real estate. Our global network, unmatched marketing, and commitment to excellence allow us to serve clients at the highest level—while supporting one another every step of the way.
If you are looking to buy or sell a luxury home, estate, ranch, or lake property in Oklahoma, I would be honored to represent you with professionalism, honesty, and world-class marketing.
Wyatt Poindexter
Managing Partner, The Agency Oklahoma
405-417-5466
[email protected]
www.WyattPoindexter.com
www.TheAgencyRE.com
