March 01, 2026 No matter how frustrated you may be, remain professional, stick to facts, and follow all laws and the Code of Ethics. If a deal falls apart and a complaint or lawsuit is filed, your actions may be subject to scrutiny.

Not every REALTOR® possesses the same level of knowledge or experience. Sometimes you end up across the table from agents who struggle to keep the deal moving smoothly toward closing. Here are ways to protect your client without doing the other agent’s job.

Document Communications

Move substantive communication to email to more easily create a paper trail. If the other agent texts or calls you about transaction details, recap that information in an email. For example, “Per our conversation 2/16/26, you and your client acknowledge that the option fee is due on 2/18/26.”

Help With the Timeline

Refer the other agent to the Residential Contract Critical Date List (TXR 1958). This new form from Texas REALTORS® helps track important transaction deadlines. You can also independently track deadlines and gently remind the other agent of what could happen due to a blown deadline.

Loop in Others

At the first sign of a problem, ask your broker for guidance. You and your broker may also want to request that the other broker be brought up to speed and included in communications. Explain to your client what’s going on and ask your client for guidance. For example, “It looks like the other party may not meet this deadline. Do you want to extend it?”

Remember Who You Work For

It’s tempting to take on the other agent’s duties to save a transaction. However, that might not be in your client’s best interest. It may also expose you to liability if, for example, you give the other client assistance or advice.