How I Stay Connected and Aligned With My Agents as a TC
Hi fellow TCs! When I first started working as a TC, one of the hardest things for me was feeling like I was constantly playing catch-up. My agents would be three steps ahead, and I’d be scrambling to figure out what was going on. It felt like I was just “the paperwork person,” not really part of the team.
That all changed after one particular transaction. My agent had been emailing back and forth with the lender about an appraisal issue, but I wasn’t copied on any of it. By the time I found out, deadlines were shifting and the client was already frustrated. I remember thinking, “If only I’d been looped in earlier, I could’ve helped prevent this mess.”
That deal taught me a huge lesson: the more connected I am with my agents, the smoother things go for everyone. Since then, I’ve been intentional about showing up as part of the team—not just as a contractor. Here are some of the things I now do that have made a big difference:
1. Speak as a team, not just yourself
When I communicate with lenders, escrow, or anyone else, I make it a habit to say “we” instead of “I.” For example: “We’ll review and get back to you.” It’s such a small change, but it makes my agent and I look aligned and on the same page—which we are.
2. Ask to be copied on everything
That appraisal fiasco I mentioned earlier? It happened because I wasn’t in the loop. Ever since, I’ve told my agents: “Please copy me on everything, even if you don’t think it’s relevant.” Seeing the full picture helps me anticipate problems, tailor communication, and support the client better.
3. Get the “heads up” at the start
I always ask: “Is there anything unusual about this deal I should know about upfront?” You’d be surprised how often there are little details—like a divorce, a trust, or a client who prefers to be called by a nickname. Having that information from day one makes us look aligned and keeps things from slipping through the cracks.
4. Build rapport before the first deadline
I’m big on doing intro calls when I start with a new agent. If we can do video, even better. Putting a face to the name builds trust fast, and it helps me learn how they like to work before we hit our first big deadline.
5. Set regular check-ins
Some of my agents like a quick weekly or bi-weekly call. Even a 15-minute touch base helps us stay aligned, catch little things they might not think to email me about, and strengthen our working relationship.
Final Thought
The longer I’ve been in this role, the more I’ve learned that being seen as “part of the team” comes down to two things: trust and communication. The more informed I am, the better I can serve both my agents and their clients.
And honestly? It just feels better. I’m not sitting on the sidelines—I’m in the game with them.
If you’re a fellow TC and you’ve been feeling a little out of sync with your agents, try one of these tips this week. You might be surprised at how quickly the dynamic shifts when you start showing up as part of the team.
