Who is a consumer in the context of real estate?

In the context of real estate, a consumer is defined as an individual or entity that seeks to obtain goods or services. This definition applies to buyers or renters who engage in real estate transactions to purchase or lease property. Consumers are typically looking for housing solutions, and they rely on real estate professionals, such as brokers or agents, to facilitate these transactions.

The focus here is on the role of buyers and renters, who are actively seeking properties that meet their needs. They are the ones who engage with the market and directly utilize the services offered by real estate agents, making them the primary consumers in this industry. It is through their demands and preferences that the real estate market functions and evolves.

The other entities mentioned, like brokers, government agencies, or property owners refusing to sell, do not fit the definition of consumers in this context. Brokers are service providers rather than consumers of real estate, while government agencies may regulate or oversee real estate transactions but are not involved as purchasers or renters in the market. Similarly, a property owner who is not actively selling does not engage in the consumption of real estate services. Thus, the correct identification of a consumer is crucial for understanding the dynamics of real estate transactions.