Also, if the seller agrees to any repairs, the broker or agent must see they are made. Increasingly, brokers and agents handle environmental problems by making sure the properties they sell meet environmental regulations. For example, they may be responsible for dealing with problems such as lead paint on the walls. While loan officers, attorneys, or other persons handle many details, the agent must check to make sure that they are completed. They often work evenings and weekends, and are always on call to suit the needs of clients.
Business is usually slower during the winter season.
Although the hours are long and often irregular, most agents and brokers also have the freedom to determine their own schedule. Consequently, they can arrange their work so they can have time off when they want it. Many worked part time, combining their real estate activities with other careers. Real estate is sold in all areas, but employment is concentrated in large urban areas and in smaller, but rapidly growing communities. Some large real estate firms have several hundred agents operating out of many branch offices.