Real Estate Agents are Cut Throats Who Stab Each Other in the Back

That's the common perception anyway, thanks to a few bad apples - and reality television. The real reality, at least the way I practice it, is very different.

For example: yesterday, in search of insights on a certain co-op for a client, I called three agents who have recently done transactions there. Two were Compass colleagues, one worked for another firm, and all three were generous with their time and knowledge. I do the same when I receive similar calls. Why? Because collaboration with other agents is the secret sauce to getting deals done.

At some point every transaction hits a bump in the road that could derail it. By working together, we achieve the best outcome for both our sellers and our buyers. It doesn't mean we're soft when it comes to negotiation. The most successful negotiations occur when both parties respect one another, and don't dig in their heels out of pure emotion.

Besides, given a choice, people like to work with people they like; and who they know will join forces to get the job done. And that's how we best serve our clients.