OAKLAND COUNTY REAL ESTATE GUIDE
What a Real Estate Agent Does Each Day
See how agents support a search, a sale and the steps to closing.
Compare listings and closed sales
Confirm services and compensation in writing
Track decisions from offer to closing
TL;DR: Agents can research prices, arrange tours, market homes, explain offer terms and coordinate transaction deadlines. Ask who the agent represents, which services are included and how fees work before committing.
How Tom structures a workday
Tom says he starts by checking the MLS for new listings and price changes, then follows up with clients and reviews contract deadlines before appointments. Showings, inspections and client decisions can shift that schedule. He describes this as his routine after 24 years working with Oakland County buyers and sellers.
The MLS is a shared listing system. Ask what listings the agent can access and how they verify current status, listing details and comparable sales. NAR’s 2025 national survey reported that 88% of buyers purchased through an agent or broker. That measures completed purchases nationally. The original local price and timing claims lacked a matched report. NAR survey summary.
What a listing agent can do
- Compare recent sales and competing listings, then explain the proposed asking price.
- Agree on preparation, photography, showings and marketing. Tom describes using the MLS, social channels, digital ads, open houses and 15+ platforms where appropriate. Ask which services are included for your listing.
- Compare offers by expected net proceeds, financing, contingencies, closing date and possession terms.
"A well-priced, beautifully marketed home in Oakland County does not just attract buyers. It creates competition among buyers — and that competition is exactly what puts more money in a seller's pocket."
Tom’s quote reflects his view of pricing and marketing. Offers and proceeds depend on the property, market and agreed terms.
What a buyer’s agent can do
Discuss budget, timing and property needs. Review listings, tour homes and compare closed sales. An agent can help you identify questions for the seller, lender or inspector and explain how the proposed offer handles financing, inspection, appraisal and possession. The work involved varies by search and transaction.
Clarify representation and compensation
Michigan’s agency disclosure law requires licensees to disclose agency relationships and their duties before a potential buyer or seller shares confidential information specific to them. Ask who the agent represents and read the disclosure and service agreement separately.
NAR’s buyer agreement guide describes the written agreement required before a home tour when an MLS participant is working with a buyer under the applicable policy. Review scope, duration, cancellation and compensation. Broker fees are negotiable. Ask who may pay the fee and whether you could owe a balance.
From accepted offer to closing
Track inspection and financing deadlines, share documents with the appropriate parties and confirm the closing and possession arrangements. Inspectors, appraisers, lenders, title professionals and attorneys handle their respective work. Ask for a clear division of responsibilities.
"After 24 years in Oakland County real estate I can tell you the agents who consistently win for their clients are not the ones who work the hardest in general. They are the ones who protect the right hours for the right work — every single day without exception."
Key takeaways
- Ask how the agent verifies listings and supports pricing decisions.
- Review agency, service scope and fees before committing.
- Keep a written record of contingencies, deadlines and next steps.
Frequently asked questions
What does a buyer’s agent do?
A buyer’s agent can help define the search, compare listings and closed sales, arrange tours, explain offer terms and track agreed deadlines. Review the written scope.
What does a listing agent do?
A listing agent can help price and market a home, arrange showings, compare offers and coordinate deadlines through closing.
When should I ask who the agent represents?
Ask before sharing confidential information. Michigan requires disclosure of agency relationships and their duties before that disclosure.
Do buyers need a written agreement before touring?
Under NAR’s MLS policy, an MLS participant working with a buyer generally needs a written agreement before an in-person or live virtual tour. Ask how the policy applies to your situation.
Are broker fees set by law?
Broker fees are negotiable. Ask what services the fee covers, how it is calculated and when you would owe it.
Who handles inspections, appraisals and title?
The relevant professionals perform those services. Your agent can coordinate access and track deadlines under your agreement.
Recommended reading
About Tom Gilliam
Tom Gilliam | REALTOR® | RE/MAX Classic. Tom describes 24 years of experience, 700+ transactions, ABR and SRES designations, SFR certification, RE/MAX Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement recognition, and Top 1% Oakland County production.
Ask Tom what representation and services would look like for your Oakland County move.
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