The real estate industry is supported by a diverse group of professionals, each playing a critical and specialized role in facilitating property transactions, development, and management.

Agency and Sales Roles

These professionals focus on the buying and selling process, acting as intermediaries between clients.

Real estate agents and brokers are licensed professionals who facilitate property transactions. Agents must work under a licensed broker.

• Seller's Agent (Listing Agent): Represents the interests of the seller in a transaction, aiming to get the highest possible price for the property.
• Buyer's Agent: Represents the interests of the buyer, helping them find a suitable property and negotiate the best purchase price and terms.
• Dual Agent: Represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction (rules vary by location).

A property manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of real estate properties, typically rentals, on behalf of the owner. Their duties often include:

• Setting and collecting rent
• Handling maintenance and repairs
• Managing tenant relations and evictions
• Preparing financial reports

Consultants provide expert advice on real estate matters. Unlike agents, they typically do not represent a party in a transaction but offer guidance on market trends, investment strategies, and property valuation.

These professionals manage the monetary and legal aspects of real estate transactions.

These individuals help buyers secure financing for their real estate purchases.

• Mortgage Broker: Acts as an intermediary, connecting borrowers with multiple lenders.
• Loan Officer: Works directly for a specific lending institution (e.g., a bank) and offers that institution's products.

Appraisers provide an unbiased, professional opinion of a property's fair market value. This valuation is essential for lenders to ensure the property value supports the loan amount.

Attorneys specialize in real estate law and can represent clients in various capacities:

• Drafting and reviewing contracts
• Conducting title searches and ensuring clear ownership
• Representing clients in disputes and closings (where legally required)

These roles are crucial for the development, maintenance, and inspection of properties.

A home inspector assesses the condition of a property, identifying potential issues with the structure, systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), and major components before a sale is finalized.

Developers coordinate all activities necessary to turn an idea for a new property into a finished project. This includes:

• Acquiring land
• Securing financing
• Overseeing construction
• Marketing the finished product

The title company or closing agent handles the final procedures of the property transaction.