What Not to Tell Your Real Estate Agent (and When to Say It Instead)

By Maureen MahoodBuying, Charlotte Real Estate, Selling November 14, 2025

Here’s the truth: not every agent is working in your best interest.

And saying the wrong thing — even once — can cost you leverage, money, or time you’ll never get back.

I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across the Charlotte area sell their homes quickly, profitably, and without the drama. After more than a decade of doing this, I’ve seen a pattern — sellers often hurt their own results by oversharing too soon.

So, let’s talk about what you should never say too early when you’re choosing an agent.

Because yes, trust matters — but timing matters even more.

“I’m not in a hurry to sell.”

I get it. You don’t want pressure. You don’t want to sound desperate. But when you say this too early, your agent might take you literally.

Your listing slides down the priority list, your marketing gets delayed, and that sense of urgency disappears. And if buyers hear you’re “in no hurry,” they’ll wait for a price drop instead of making a strong offer.

Everyone loves a deal — don’t hand them one before you even start.

If you want to keep momentum, say:

“I’m ready to sell. What do you got for me?”

That’s the energy that keeps your listing top of mind.

“I think my house is worth X.”

I love when sellers do their homework — seriously. But here’s the problem: if you give your number before the agent’s done their market analysis, you’re giving up leverage.

A less ethical agent might agree with you — even if you’re too low, just to get a quick sale. Or too high, hoping to win the listing and talk you down later.

That’s called buying the listing, and it happens all the time.

Let your agent show you the data first. Review their comps. Ask questions. Then decide together what makes sense.

“You’re the only agent I’m interviewing.”

Even if you’re 99% sure — don’t say this yet.

When an agent knows there’s no competition, they can get comfortable. Their presentation might be a little less sharp.

You want their best effort. Interview at least two or three agents. You’ll learn how each one thinks, plans, and prices — and you’ll see who really knows your market.

“What’s the standard listing agreement length?”

Don’t ask this like there’s only one answer. You’re the seller — you set the terms.

Three months is typically fair: long enough to sell, short enough to pivot if things aren’t working.

If an agent insists on six months or more right out of the gate, that’s a red flag. A confident agent will earn your renewal, not demand it upfront.

“Is now a good time to sell?”

Every agent’s default answer is “Yes!”

But that’s not the right question. The better question is:

“Is now a good time for me to sell?”

A great agent won’t answer until they understand your goals, timeline, and situation.

Why do you need to sell? Are you relocating, downsizing, or just curious?

Don’t let market hype drive your decision. The right time to sell is when it fits your life — not just the headlines.

“You’ve got the listing — let’s skip the rest.”

Even if you’re ready to go, don’t skip the presentation.

Ask for the full marketing plan.
Confirm what’s included — staging, photos, videos — and get it in writing.

And if this is a friend or family member helping you list your home? Do this especially then.
Everyone means well, but this is your biggest asset. You deserve the same professional standard as anyone else.

“I’m just going to use the agent who sold me the house.”

That might be fine, but don’t assume they’re the right fit.

A lot of agents specialize in buyers or listings, and not both. Being a great buyer’s agent doesn’t automatically make someone a great listing agent.

Ask to see their listing track record, their marketing materials, and their recent results. This isn’t personal — it’s business. And your home deserves a pro who knows how to sell.

“Here’s my bottom-line number.”

Don’t share this too early.

Yes, you should know your minimum, but if your agent knows that number on day one, they might treat it like the target instead of the floor.

Have that conversation when trust is built — and when there’s an actual offer on the table. That’s when it matters.

The Real Bottom Line

This isn’t about hiding things from your agent — absolutely not.

They need to know everything about the home and your situation to do their job well.

It’s about timing.

Knowing when to share information keeps your leverage intact and your goals protected.

A great agent will earn your trust — and once they do, you’ll have open, honest, productive conversations that lead to real results.

You’re the seller. You’re in charge. Be smart, be strategic, and protect your sale from day one.

Thinking About Selling in Charlotte?

If you’re thinking about selling in the Charlotte area and you want straight answers from someone who’ll tell you the truth — to a fault — head over to SellYourHomeCharlotte.com.

Let’s be honest: nobody sells Charlotte like we do.

And yeah, this blog probably won’t make me any new real estate friends.
But that’s okay. I have enough friends.