09/04/2026
After recently overhearing a conversation, I felt compelled to share this—not only to help educate the public, but also to stand up for my fellow Realtors® and shed light on the time, money, and dedication we invest in every listing.
Before a home ever sells—and before the Realtor earns a commission—we invest our own time, money, experience, and resources into marketing and managing the property. Depending on the listing, that investment may include:
📸 Professional photography and video
📣 Online and social-media advertising
🪧 Signs, flyers, and printed materials
🏠 Staging and preparation advice
📊 Pricing research and market analysis
📱 Responding to inquiries and coordinating showings
💬 Gathering feedback and communicating with the seller
📝 Reviewing offers, negotiating terms, and managing paperwork
🔑 Coordinating inspections, repairs, appraisals, and closing details
There are also countless hours spent behind the scenes solving problems, following up with agents and buyers, monitoring the market, and keeping the transaction moving forward.
Realtors are independent contractors. We pay for all of our own business and marketing expenses, and we are not paid unless the property successfully closes. That investment does not come from their company.
A good Realtor doesn’t simply “list” your home—we invest in it, advocate for it, protect your interests, and guide the transaction from beginning to end.
I know that every listing deserves commitment, thoughtful marketing, honest communication, and personal attention. That is the value of having an experienced professional working on your behalf.
With the rates as they are and all the negativity on the news just know the following:
Realtors are responsible for the marketing of your home.
Realtors are not responsible for the market. 😉
Brian Stewart, REALTOR
Benchmark Realty
931-320-0510 Cell
Bonnie Stevens, REALTOR
Benchmark Realty
617-817-6108
615-991-4949 Office
