Challenges real estate agents are facing in 2021

The pandemic has brought about many challenges for many industries and has taken a strain on the way that companies and businesses operate on a day-to-day basis. One industry that was hit hard by the impacts of COVID-19 was the real estate industry. Despite figuring out ways to have a virtual option for various services, many real estate agents were frustrated with the professional outcomes of the pandemic. Through recovery in the past year, adjustments have been made to keep both agents and customers safe. Regardless, this year has brought about challenges for agents that we will be talking about today.

First off when it comes to home viewings, many have been halted, rescheduled, or switched to virtual options depending on where you live. If you are in some form of lockdown a great option has been to have viewings online, but many have said there is a lack of spatial awareness when you are not able to see a home in person. As an agent this can be challenging as the restrictions that exist in your area are rules that you cannot break. Make sure as an agent you are reassuring you clients about the home and letting them know that the situation at hand must fit with guidelines.

Going along with this, there is the lack of interpersonal connections that can be built with clients through a virtual tour in comparison to in-person. Buyers and sellers like to know that their needs are being met by someone who genuinely cares to find them their dream home. This lack of interaction can create a more isolated relationship with the agent.

Another challenge has been the influx of agents interested in the career path. The real estate industry is a booming industry that has been growing quickly. This has led many to become interested in pursuing the field however, with the pandemic still lingering there is the challenge of not have enough inventory available to every agent at every moment. Also, the industry grows and changes every single day and so it is a competitive market. If you want to be an agent, you must act fast because people are willing to invest in those properties within the first 24 hours of the posting.

On top of that, we exist in a seller’s market. There is currently a difference in the balance between buyers and sellers as there have been a lot more sales than buys. As a real estate agent, you need to make sure you are aware of the type of markets you are in and if it is worth it for you.

If you are an agent out there, we wish you the best of luck and a successful year ahead!