Couple Stunned by What Real Estate Agent Says Post-Closing: "Did We Do Something Wrong?"

Newsweek

2 days ago

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A couple was left stunned when their real estate agent, who earned around $30,000 from helping them both sell and buy a home, offered no form of thanks on closing day.
The original poster (OP), user eg332398, shared their bewilderment on Reddit, explaining that they had used the same realtor for their sale and purchase and thought they had been a "pretty easy" client.
"Our house went under contract after 1 afternoon of showings and 1 open house," they noted. "We only put in 2 offers, and the second one is the house we ended up buying."
However, when closing day came around, they were shocked when the realtor didn't offer so much as a thank you, despite earning around $30,000 from both transactions.
Stock image of a couple receiving keys from a woman while standing outside a home with a "for sale/sold" sign.
Stock image of a couple receiving keys from a woman while standing outside a home with a "for sale/sold" sign.
"Our agent did nothing for us - not a card, bottle of champagne, even a verbal thank you," the OP wrote. "Did we do something wrong?
"We weren't expecting anything or certainly anything extravagant, but after a 30k paycheck, we were hoping for at least a little thank you?"
Their post prompted hundreds of responses, with many users sharing similar experiences.
One wrote, "Upon closing, our realtor immediately asked for stuff that the seller was leaving behind in the house! She specifically wanted one of the lamps for her daughter.
"So not only did she not give us anything, she wanted to take stuff away. Count yourself lucky."
Another described receiving wine despite being pregnant, while a third recalled being given champagne, though they didn't drink.
Meanwhile, others mentioned receiving useful items like a Ring camera, cutting boards, gift cards, or even professional cleaning services. Another pointed out that their former agent still invites them to holiday events years after closing.
Small Gestures Breed Loyalty
While some commenters viewed thank-you gestures as unnecessary, others said they serve as a basic expression of gratitude and a foundation for referrals.
According to The New Agent's Guide to Becoming a Kickass Realtor, successful agents grow by focusing on customer service and building relationships that last beyond a transaction.
The guide advises agents to create standout experiences, like delivering food on moving day or marking loan approvals with celebration gifts, arguing that small gestures can cement long-term loyalty.
'Clients want and deserve to feel valued'
Realtor Jessica Winns agrees, telling Newsweek, "In real estate, the relationship shouldn't end at closing, it's just the beginning of long-term client trust.
"A simple thank you, whether it's a handwritten note, a thoughtful gift, or even just a follow-up call, can make all the difference in showing appreciation and professionalism.
"While gifts can be a nice touch, genuine communication is the real key. Clients want and deserve to feel valued, not just like another transaction.
"Make it a priority to check in post-closing, ensuring they're settled and know they can always reach out for guidance.
"It's about fostering lasting relationships, not just closing deals."
Newsweek has contacted eg332398 for comment via Reddit.
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