‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,’ according to the film classic The Shining. But, if you’re a movie-loving estate agent, then you could combine the two. So, here are the top 10 real estate movies that every agent must watch with their latest ratings on the IMDB movie database.
Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)
IMDb 7.7/10
Glengarry Glen Ross covers the cut-throat world of real estate. With a cast including Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon and Alec Baldwin, the film documents two days in the lives of several salesmen and their questionable tactics to sell property in Chicago. The film is an adaptation from the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name. It is regularly used as a training aid in the business – including how to sell and how not to sell.
99 Homes (2014)
IMDb 7.1/10
99 Homes focuses on the housing market crisis in Florida after the crash of 2007-2008 from a homeowner’s perspective. The film delves into the life of Dennis Nash (played by Andrew Garfield) who gets evicted from his childhood home by a real estate broker called Rick Carver (Michael Shannon). Nash ultimately ends up working for Carver, evicting others from their homes
Hollywood Homicide (2003)
IMDb 5.3/10
This movie focuses on an investigation into a string of murders in Hollywood. But the real estate-based twist in the tale is that one of the investigating officers is also moonlighting as a broker. It’s an interesting take on the world of real estate with some impressive multi-tasking from the officer in question.
American Beauty (1999)
IMDb 8.3/10
American Beauty may not instantly leap out as a real estate movie. However, the real estate industry provides a constant backdrop for this classic film thanks to Annette Bening’s (somewhat chilling) portrayal of a real estate professional.
Adult World (2013)
IMDb 6.1/10
Adult World focuses on a millennial called Amy (played by Emma Roberts) who is trapped by her delusions of grandeur and lack of money. For those real estate agents struggling to understand this generation, it’s an interesting insight into their priorities – and why buying a house isn’t always top of many millennials’ agendas.
Revolutionary Road (2008)
IMDb 7.3/10
Revolutionary Road focuses on a young couple who are struggling to deal with their personal problems and raise a family. When it comes to real estate films, it’s an interesting look into the city versus suburban living debate. Despite being set in the 1950s Connecticut suburbia, many of the issues are relatable to today’s market.
The Money Pit (1986)
IMDb 6.4/10
If you fancy something a little more light-hearted, The Money Pit chronicles a young couple struggling to repair their hopelessly dilapidated home. Starring Tom Hanks and Shelley Long, it’s a cautionary tale of why any prospective homeowner should not get seduced by the original owner’s moving (and, in this case, untrue) story of the house. For real estate agents, it’s a great example of how storytelling can help you make a sale!
The Big Short (2015)
IMDb 7.8/10
The housing and financial crash of 2007-2008 is well documented – but it’s not always the most entertaining topic. The Big Short rectifies this problem, uncovering all of the reasons and repercussions of the crash through the eyes of protagonist Michael Burry, played by Christian Bale.
Closing Escrow (2007)
IMDb 5.5/10
Closing Escrow follows the lives of three couples who are looking for their dream home. Filmed as a documentary, it highlights some of the key problems with the real estate industry, including last-minute buys, indecisive clients and questionable realtors.
I Love You, Man (2009)
IMDb 7.0/10
I Love You, Man focuses on the life of realtor Peter Klaven (Paul Rudd) who has no friends – but needs to find the best man for his upcoming wedding. It’s a funny film with some touching moments, demonstrating the importance of self-confidence to become a successful realtor.
