Can I choose my own real estate agent in a corporate relocation?

The short answer: It depends on your employer’s relocation policy. Some employers or relocation companies assign or recommend an agent, and some let you request one. Ask your relocation team, in writing, before you list a home or make an offer.

Questions to ask your relocation team

May I choose my own agent, or must I use one from a recommended list?
If I choose my own, does that change any benefit in my policy?
Is there a form or a deadline for naming my agent?
Who pays for what, and what do I need to submit to be reimbursed?
Who is my contact if something changes?

If you can choose, what to look for

Local knowledge of the neighborhoods, not just the city: two areas a few streets apart can feel and price very differently.
A plan for searching from far away, like video tours and a short, focused visit.
Lending and real estate that work together, so the offer and the loan fit.
Honest tradeoffs, not just highlights.

What I will not do

I will not pressure you, and I will not promise a price or a result. I will tell you what I see, and you decide.

Rachel Dee Minyard

REALTOR®

CA DRE #02213398

Hi, I’m Rachel Dee Minyard, REALTOR® and Creative Director with Surroundings. I’m Sacramento born and raised, and I help people relocate here from across the country. Maggie, our broker, lines up the loan.

Not sure who to call? Call us(916) 633-6787

Work with whichever of us you’re most comfortable with. Either way, the whole Surroundings team is behind you.

Questions people ask

Can an agent I choose still work with my relocation company?

That is up to your employer’s policy and the relocation company’s process. Ask your relocation team what they require before you choose.

Will choosing my own agent cost me a benefit?

Policies differ. Ask your relocation team in writing whether choosing your own agent changes any benefit.

Planning a move?

Tell us where you are coming from or going to, and your timing.

Surroundings · CA DRE #02220140 · NMLS #2528307 · Equal Housing Opportunity · Equal Housing Lender. This page is general information, not tax, legal or relocation-benefits advice. Policies and prices change; check your company’s relocation policy and your own tax professional.