Old-School vs Modern Real Estate Agent

Short answer: An “old-school” approach relies mostly on the MLS, a sign and an open house. A modern real estate agent adds video, search-optimised local websites, a well-run Google Business Profile, targeted online advertising and AI tools that help with research and round-the-clock responses. More reach and better presentation can help attract more qualified buyers, which is where the bottom line comes in. The only way to know which approach you’re getting is to interview agents and ask.

This isn’t about age, and it isn’t about any particular agent. Plenty of long-time agents are sharp with technology, and plenty of new ones aren’t. It’s about methods. I spent roughly 40 years in technology before I became a REALTOR, so I tend to notice the gap between what’s possible now and what many sellers are still being offered.

What does an old-school marketing plan look like?

You’ll probably recognise it:

List on the MLS and let the syndication sites pick it up
Put a sign on the lawn
Take photos (sometimes professional, sometimes not)
Hold an open house or two
Wait for the phone to ring during business hours

None of that is wrong. The MLS is still the backbone of the market, and signs and open houses still work. The problem is that it’s the same plan every other listing gets, so your home looks like every other listing.

What does a modern real estate agent do differently?

Video that buyers actually watch.

Many buyers, especially people relocating to the Okanagan from Alberta, the Lower Mainland or further away, can’t pop by for a showing. A good video walk-through, plus a look at the neighbourhood, helps them decide if the home is worth the trip. I publish on my YouTube channel (@ChaletSean), and I also use AI avatar video for some explainer content, clearly labelled as AI.

Hyper-local websites that rank on Google.

When someone searches “homes near Okanagan Landing Elementary” or “Coldstream homes for sale,” the agent with a well-built page on that exact topic has a better chance of being found. That’s why I’ve built pages for individual neighbourhoods and school catchments, like my Vernon and Coldstream schools guide and neighbourhood pages. When I list a home in one of those areas, it can be shown to people who are already searching for it.

A Google Business Profile that works.

Your agent’s Google Business Profile is often the first thing people see. Reviews, photos, posts and accurate information make it easier for local buyers and sellers to find and trust them.

AI tools, used carefully.

AI can help an agent draft descriptions, summarise market data, prepare comparisons and respond faster. It is not a replacement for judgement. BC’s regulator has an artificial intelligence guideline that asks agents to review AI output, protect client privacy, label altered images, and tell people when they’re dealing with AI. Ask any agent how they follow it.

Being reachable 24/7.

Buyers browse at night and on weekends. I set up Sarah, an AI info line at 604-227-4810, so people can get basic property and area information any time. Sarah is an AI assistant, not a person, and I follow up personally on anything that needs a real conversation.

Why does the approach affect your bottom line?

Your sale price depends on the market, your home and its condition, and your pricing. No agent can guarantee a result. But marketing affects how many of the right buyers see your home, and how well it’s presented when they do. More qualified interest can help create competition, and competition is what tends to support a stronger price.

There’s also the cost side. If a listing sits, the carrying costs keep running: mortgage, property taxes, insurance, utilities, and in some cases double housing costs if you’ve already bought. A plan that helps reach buyers sooner can help reduce those costs.

For a detailed look at what you’re paying for, see what does your realtor’s commission actually pay for.

How can you tell which kind of agent you’re talking to?

Ask them to show you, not tell you:

“Can I see a recent listing video you made?”
“Which local pages or search terms do you rank for?”
“Show me your Google Business Profile and recent reviews.”
“How do you use AI, and how do you protect my information?”
“What happens when a buyer calls at 9 p.m. on a Saturday?”

My how to interview a realtor post has 15 questions in total.

What if you already have an agent?

If you’re in a listing or buyer agency agreement, respect it. Read it, and talk openly with your agent about marketing. Ask for video, ask about online advertising, ask how your home is showing up in search. A good agent will welcome the conversation.

If your agreement is coming up for renewal or has expired, that’s the natural time to interview a few agents and compare approaches. I cover this in why you should interview agents before you sign or renew. If you’re unsure about your obligations under a contract, a lawyer can review it with you.

Where to start

If you’re thinking about selling in Vernon, Coldstream or the North Okanagan, my selling your home page explains how I market listings, and my about page tells you a bit more about my background. I’m always happy to walk you through my plan and let you compare.

Frequently asked questions

Is a modern realtor more expensive?

Not necessarily. Commissions in BC are negotiable and vary by agent and brokerage. The real question is what’s included for the fee, so ask for a written list.

Do old-school methods still work?

Yes. The MLS, signs and open houses still matter. Modern methods add to them rather than replace them.

Will video and AI guarantee my home sells faster?

No agent can guarantee timing or price. Better presentation and wider reach can help your home get in front of more of the right buyers.

Is it OK for an agent to use AI?

Yes, as long as they review what it produces, protect your privacy and are open about when AI is being used, as BCFSA’s guideline expects.

More Vernon guides

Questions about buying or selling in Vernon?

I’m Sean Phillips, a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Executives Realty in Vernon, BC. I live in Okanagan Landing, and I help buyers and sellers across Vernon, Coldstream, SilverStar and the North Okanagan.

Text or call Sean: 778-363-0542
Call or text Sarah, my 24/7 info line: 604-227-4810

This article is general information as of fall 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, fees and conditions change, so confirm details with the appropriate professional or authority before making a decision.

Featured photo by Nubelson Fernandes on Unsplash.

Old-School vs Modern Realtor: Why It Shows Up in Your Bottom Line