What buyers want from real estate agents. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner seeking your next chapter, your needs from a real estate agent aren’t always the same.
A recent national survey reveals fascinating differences in what buyers want most — and those preferences shift significantly with age.
From negotiating terms to handling paperwork, here’s a closer look at what buyers want from real estate agents, and what really matters to today’s buyers.
Key Findings: What Matters Most to Buyers.
Across all age groups, helping buyers find the right home remains the top priority — but it gets even more important as buyers age.
According to the study:
- 62% of buyers aged 78–98 said finding the right home was their top need from an agent — compared to just 45% of buyers aged 34–43.
- This likely reflects lifestyle changes later in life: buyers in retirement may be downsizing, relocating to be near family, or choosing homes with specific accessibility features.
Other top needs include:
Negotiating the terms of sale (especially important to younger buyers, with 15% of 25–33-year-olds marking it as top priority).
- Price negotiations matter most to those aged 34–58, with percentages as high as 14%.
Buyers in their 20s and 30s were more likely to want help with:
- Paperwork (8%)
- Financing (4%)
- Understanding how much they can afford (5%)
By contrast, older buyers (59+) put less emphasis on these transactional elements — likely because they’re using equity from previous sales or buying with cash.
Why It Matters for You.
If you’re planning to buy:
Older buyers (59+): Your focus may be on lifestyle and location. Hem-young listens deeply and helps you identify the right long-term fit, not just the best deal.
Younger buyers (25–43): Don’t hesitate to ask her for extra guidance with negotiations, loan options, and paperwork — that’s part of her job.
Understanding what buyers want from real estate agents can significantly impact the buying experience, ensuring that their needs are met effectively. And she knows What buyers want from real estate agents.
As your trusted advisors, Hem-young understands how to tailor our support depending on your stage of life. Whether you’re navigating a first purchase or your last, we’re here to guide the journey.
One Extra Insight: Neighborhood Knowledge Still Matters.
Only 3% of all buyers said learning about neighborhoods was their top need. But don’t let that fool you — it may just mean they don’t realize how valuable that knowledge can be.
Restaurants, parks, walkability, and transportation options can make or break your day-to-day life. We know the streets, not just the listings.
Looking Ahead.
Next week: we’ll flip the lens to look at what sellers want most from their real estate agent — and why those expectations also change with age.
Priced to Sell — 748 Locust #403 Pasadena. Call for price!
Priced to sell—seller has purchased another home and is ready to move forward.
Rarely available corner residence at The Hudson, a boutique luxury building designed by renowned architect William Hefner.
Unit 403 offers over 2,000 sq ft of single-level living, including terraces, with a private elevator opening directly into the unit’s own foyer—no shared hallways. The open layout features abundant natural light, oversized windows, and skylights throughout.
Three spacious bedrooms and three full bathrooms, including a light-filled primary suite. The chef’s kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and generous prep space.
Recently upgraded to meet 2025 standards, with newer HVAC, recessed lighting, and smart-system readiness.
Expansive terrace with shaded seating and tree-lined city views.
Private 4-car garage with independent, fully enclosed bays and remote-controlled garage doors—not open stalls.
Quiet 24-unit building just blocks from Lake Ave, Vroman’s, Trader Joe’s, and the Gold Line.
Call to Action:
Have questions about buying this home in Greater Pasadena? Let’s talk. We’ve helped over 600 clients make confident decisions — and we’re here to help you, too.
- NAR – National Association of Realtors
