If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “20% of realtors do 80% of the business,” you’ve heard of the 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle. While it applies to many industries, it’s especially true in real estate.
In Everett, WA, where the market is competitive and diverse, the 80/20 rule can be seen clearly. A small percentage of realtors consistently close the majority of transactions, while many agents handle only a few deals a year.
But what does this mean for you as a buyer or seller in Everett? Let’s break it down.
What Is the 80/20 Rule in Real Estate?
The 80/20 rule originated with economist Vilfredo Pareto, who noticed that 80% of Italy’s land was owned by 20% of the population. Today, it’s used to describe how output is often concentrated in the hands of a few.
In real estate, the 80/20 rule means:
- Around 20% of agents handle 80% of all transactions.
- The remaining 80% of agents share the leftover 20%.
In Everett, this pattern holds true. While there are hundreds of licensed agents, a smaller group consistently delivers results thanks to their experience, marketing skills, and community connections.
Why the 80/20 Rule Matters in Everett
1. Experience Counts
Top-performing realtors aren’t just lucky. They’ve built negotiation skills, market knowledge, and client trust over time.
2. Local Knowledge Is Unequal
Everett’s housing market isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each neighborhood has its own personality and price dynamics:
- Riverside is popular for historic Craftsman homes.
- Silver Lake draws families looking for waterfront living.
- Boulevard Bluffs attracts buyers seeking premium views and resale value.
Top 20% agents know these nuances inside and out. They can explain why a home in Forest Park might appreciate faster, or why North Everett is a hidden gem for first-time buyers.
3. Stronger Networks and Resources
Realtors in the top 20% often have access to:
- A wider buyer pool.
- Established lender and inspector relationships.
- Strong referral pipelines.
That network can mean quicker sales and earlier access to listings for buyers.
What the 80/20 Rule Means for Everett Buyers
If you’re buying in Everett, the realtor you choose matters. A top agent will:
- Alert you to new listings immediately, sometimes before they hit the MLS.
- Advise you on competitive bidding in neighborhoods like Bayside or View Ridge.
- Help you avoid overpaying by grounding offers in market data.
In a market where multiple offers are common, having an experienced Everett realtor can give you the edge.
What the 80/20 Rule Means for Everett Sellers
For sellers, the 80/20 rule highlights the value of working with a proven professional. A top Everett realtor can:
- Price your home strategically for neighborhoods like Lowell or Valley View.
- Use staging, professional photos, and SEO-driven marketing to attract buyers.
- Negotiate effectively to maximize your sale price.
When most buyers begin their search online, the ability to market your home well is what separates the top 20% from the rest.
How to Identify a Top 20% Realtor in Everett
1. Ask About Recent Sales
- How many homes have you sold in Everett in the past 12 months?
- Do you specialize in buyers, sellers, or both?
- What neighborhoods do you focus on?
2. Review Their Marketing Plan
Top agents don’t just list homes—they market them. Look for:
- Professional photography and video tours.
- SEO-optimized online listings.
- Targeted social media ads highlighting Everett-specific amenities.
3. Check Reviews and Testimonials
Read reviews on Google, Zillow, and Realtor.com. Pay attention to mentions of:
- Negotiation success.
- Communication speed.
- Local neighborhood expertise.
4. Evaluate Their Community Presence
Top agents often have strong ties in Everett—whether through sponsorships, volunteer work, or local events. Community connections often translate into more opportunities for clients.
Misconceptions About the 80/20 Rule
“The other 80% of agents are bad.” Not true. Many are newer agents still building experience. Some can still deliver excellent service, especially if mentored at a boutique firm.
“Big firms always have the top 20% agents.” Not necessarily. Many boutique firms in Everett outperform big brokerages locally because of their personalized strategies and community focus.
“It’s only about sales volume.” Volume matters, but so does service. The best realtors combine experience with client-first communication.
Choosing a Top Realtor in Everett
The 80/20 rule is a reminder that not all realtors are the same. In Everett, a smaller group of highly active agents consistently deliver the majority of results because of their experience, negotiation skills, and deep knowledge of the local market.
When you’re buying or selling a home, choosing a realtor in Everett isn’t just about finding someone with a license—it’s about finding someone proven to get results.
FAQs About the 80/20 Rule in Real Estate
The real estate market is competitive. Many agents work part-time or only handle a few transactions a year. The most successful realtors dedicate themselves full-time, continually sharpen their skills, and build strong referral networks, which keeps them in the top tier.
In most cases, yes, because experience often translates into smoother transactions and better results. However, newer agents working under a strong boutique firm can also deliver excellent service, especially if you want more one-on-one attention.
Look at how many homes they’ve closed in the past 12–18 months, their reviews, and their reputation in the community. Consistency is a key sign of a top performer.
Usually not. Commission rates are fairly standard across the industry, regardless of the agent. The difference lies in the results, marketing strategies, and negotiation skills you get from an experienced realtor.
At The Robinett Group, we bring boutique-level service with top-tier performance. Whether you’re searching for your first home or selling a property, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how our expertise can make your real estate journey seamless and successful!
