20 Funny, Yet True, Downsides of Being a Realtor by Wyatt Poindexter
Ah, real estate—a career full of glamour, wealth, and an endless supply of headaches. Over the past 30 years, I’ve seen it all. While I wouldn’t trade this career for anything, it’s not all sunshine and champagne closings. People often ask, “What are the downsides of being a Realtor?” So, I made a list. Spoiler: it’s funny, frustrating, and ridiculously real.
If you’re considering joining the world of real estate, buckle up for a humorous look at the challenges that come with the territory.
- The Vacation Curse
The moment you plan a vacation, your phone explodes. Showings, inspection issues, last-minute emails—it’s like the universe knows you’re trying to relax. Want to boost your income? Book a week-long trip. You’ll never enjoy it, but at least business will boom. - The “Waste My Time” Friend
We all have that one friend who endlessly asks for advice about buying or selling but uses someone else when the time comes. Thanks for the free consulting, pal. - Brokerage Break-Up Drama
Switching brokerages is like a bad high school breakup. Gossip, rumors, and drama will follow you like a shadow. Suddenly, you’re public enemy #1 at your old office. - The 5 a.m. Texts
Clients, Realtors, and lenders seem to forget normal business hours. Family dinner? Sleeping? Irrelevant. They need answers, and they need them now. - Realtor Rivalries
Success breeds jealousy. From nasty rumors to undercutting you with low commissions, other agents don’t always play nice. - Deals That Die at the Finish Line
You work for months, only to have a deal crumble the day before closing. Inspections fail, financing falls apart, or someone gets cold feet—and there goes your paycheck. - Feast or Famine
Real estate income is a rollercoaster. One month, you’re swimming in cash; the next, you’re wondering if anyone remembers you exist. - Client Personalities
You’ll meet every type of person imaginable. Some clients want perfection on a budget, while others will ask for advice on paint colors for a house they’ll never buy. - Unrealistic Sellers
Homeowners think their house is worth top dollar—even if it hasn’t been cleaned since Y2K. “But my neighbor’s house sold for more!” Sure, Karen, your neighbor also renovated their kitchen this century. - The Staging Struggle
Turning a cluttered home into something buyers love is an art form. Making it look like a magazine spread? That’s a miracle. - Fake Pre-Approvals
A disturbing trend: buyers showing up with fake pre-approval letters. Think cut-and-paste logos and bogus phone numbers. Great for wasting your time! - The Cost of Doing Business
Realtors shell out for licenses, dues, MLS fees, marketing, and more. Most of it comes out of your pocket upfront, whether you’re closing deals or not. - Missing Milestones
Buyers don’t care that it’s your kid’s birthday or championship soccer game. If they want to see a house, you’ll be there with the lockbox code instead of candles. - Low-Ball Offers
Some offers are so low they feel like a personal insult. “It’s just a starting point!” Sure, if the starting point is the bargain bin at a yard sale. - Demanding Builders
Builders want the world for less—reduced commissions, free marketing, and your firstborn child. But hey, the house is “almost finished!” - Social Media Pressure
Post a “SOLD!” photo and brace for judgment from colleagues. Stay quiet, and clients will assume you’ve vanished. Social media is a double-edged sword. - Rejection Everywhere
Clients ghost you, ditch you for a referral, or decide to rent instead. If you don’t have thick skin, this business will wear you down fast. - Burnout Is Real
Long hours, inconsistent pay, emotional clients, and zero holidays—it’s a recipe for exhaustion. Flexible schedule? More like a non-stop hustle. - Expensive Expiration
Spending thousands on a listing only to see it expire six months later feels like throwing a lavish party where nobody shows up. - Feedback Fiascos
Getting feedback after showings is rarer than spotting Bigfoot. When you share vague feedback with your sellers, they take it personally. “What do you mean the buyers ‘didn’t feel it’?!”
Despite all the challenges, I still love this job. Helping clients find their dream homes, negotiating deals, and building relationships are rewarding beyond words. But real estate isn’t for the faint of heart.
Thinking of joining this wild ride? Pack your sense of humor—and please, no 5 a.m. texts!
Wyatt Poindexter
The Agency
