When to Bend the Rules in Real Estate: Setting Boundaries That Work
Boundaries are a key part of treating your real estate career like a true business. You can’t work 24/7—and the good news is you don’t have to. Clients will respect boundaries when you set and communicate them clearly. In this episode, we dive into how and when it’s okay to make exceptions without burning out or sacrificing your professionalism.
Mindset and Boundaries Go Hand-in-Hand
A strong boundary mindset is the foundation of a sustainable real estate business. Just like other professionals—your CPA, your dentist, or your doctor—you deserve defined work hours. We often feel pressure to respond immediately, but in truth, clients don’t expect you to be on-call around the clock. They just need clear communication.
Boundaries First, Then Exceptions
Before you can decide when to make an exception, you must have boundaries in place. Without them, everything becomes an exception. Boundaries look different for everyone, and they evolve with your season of life. But once you set them, stick to them—and don’t let someone else’s schedule override your well-being.
Urgent vs. It Can Wait
Learn to separate what’s truly urgent from what can wait. For example, if a buyer in a hot market needs to see a house that just listed, that might warrant bending your boundary. But answering a text at 10pm about a listing going live in three months? That can wait. Having systems—like templated emails and pre-set expectations—helps your clients understand the timeline and reduces urgency-based stress.
Communication Is Everything
Boundaries in real estate almost always relate to communication. When do you respond to texts? What hours are you available for calls? What’s your turnaround time for emails? Once clients know your communication rules, they’ll respect them. Setting expectations upfront is the easiest way to avoid issues later.
Is It a Season or a Habit?
If you’re working nonstop, ask yourself: Is this just a busy season or has this become a routine? If the exception becomes the norm, it’s time to reassess. Maybe you need help from an assistant or a showing partner. Or maybe it’s time to refer some business out. Protecting your time protects your energy and your business.
Pop-Tart Agents and Buyer Boundaries
New agents often feel pressure to “pop-tart” and meet a buyer the second they ask. But showing without proper vetting isn’t safe or sustainable. Instead, offer one free showing—preferably of a vacant house—and use that time to educate the buyer on next steps. Make it clear they need a pre-approval before seeing more homes. Clients will respect boundaries when you guide them like a professional.
When Breaking Your Rules Is Okay
Some exceptions make sense: a client in a time crunch, a rare listing, or an urgent negotiation. Maybe you’re in a unique season—like traveling or caring for a newborn—and have to work outside your usual hours. That’s fine as long as you communicate with everyone involved and don’t make it a habit.
Realtor-to-Realtor Boundaries
Boundaries also apply to how you work with other agents. Just because someone texts you at 10pm doesn’t mean you need to respond. Use email when possible and share clear timelines in your listings. And if you receive an offer? Yes, you need to relay it promptly—but you don’t need to have a full discussion at midnight.
You Don’t Have to Do It All
Real estate is a long game. You don’t have to say yes to every request or chase every lead. If someone pushes back because you won’t drop everything to meet them last minute, maybe they aren’t your ideal client. Being honest about your availability helps attract clients who trust and value your professionalism.
Final Thoughts
This episode is your permission slip to set boundaries that support your life and your business. Most importantly, remember: clients will respect boundaries when you set them early, communicate them clearly, and lead with confidence.
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