Here’s a clear step-by-step breakdown of a typical real estate transaction from offer accepted → closing, showing who does what between the Real Estate Agent and Transaction Coordinator (TC).
🏠 Real Estate Transaction Workflow
1. Offer Accepted
✅ Agent:
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Notifies the buyer or seller that the offer has been accepted.
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Ensures both parties have a fully executed purchase agreement.
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Submits the contract to the brokerage and opens escrow.
🗂️ Transaction Coordinator:
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Receives the executed contract from the agent.
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Creates a transaction file (digital or physical).
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Reviews for missing signatures or documents.
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Inputs all key dates (inspection, appraisal, loan, closing) into a tracking system.
2. Opening Escrow & Initial Paperwork
✅ Agent:
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Introduces the client to escrow and title contacts.
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Helps the client deliver the earnest money deposit.
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Answers client questions about next steps.
🗂️ TC:
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Confirms escrow is open and deposit received.
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Distributes copies of the contract to all parties (lender, title, escrow, etc.).
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Requests and tracks disclosures and brokerage compliance forms.
3. Inspections & Appraisals
✅ Agent:
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Schedules and attends inspections.
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Negotiates repairs or credits if issues arise.
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Communicates updates to the client and other agent.
🗂️ TC:
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Tracks inspection and appraisal deadlines.
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Files inspection reports and appraisal documents.
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Updates all parties on receipt of completed items.
4. Loan & Contingencies
✅ Agent:
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Works with the buyer’s lender to ensure loan progress.
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Advises the client on removing contingencies or requesting extensions.
🗂️ TC:
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Monitors contingency removal dates.
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Collects signed contingency removal forms.
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Sends reminders about upcoming deadlines.
5. Final Walkthrough & Closing Preparation
✅ Agent:
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Schedules final walkthrough with the buyer.
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Reviews closing disclosure with the client.
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Prepares the client for signing and closing day.
🗂️ TC:
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Confirms all documents are complete and compliant.
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Coordinates with title, escrow, and lender to ensure closing package is ready.
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Confirms closing date/time with all parties.
6. Closing Day
✅ Agent:
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Attends the closing (if customary).
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Congratulates the client and hands over keys.
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Wraps up any post-closing items (e.g., reviews, referrals).
🗂️ TC:
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Ensures the final closing statement and commission disbursement are correct.
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Uploads all signed documents to the broker’s system for recordkeeping.
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Marks the file as “closed” and sends copies to the agent and client.
| Stage | Real Estate Agent | Transaction Coordinator |
|---|---|---|
| Offer to Acceptance | Negotiates, advises client | Prepares initial file |
| Escrow Opening | Guides client, submits documents | Tracks deadlines & distributes paperwork |
| Inspections/Appraisal | Attends & negotiates | Organizes reports & updates |
| Loan/Contingencies | Advises, negotiates extensions | Tracks & manages forms |
| Closing | Final walkthrough, client communication | Ensures compliance & closes file |