Most real estate agents also have zero knowledge about the mechanical/engineering aspects of a property. Whenever I ask them about the insulation, electrical wiring, HVAC, or plumbing they just give me a blank face and try to redirect me to how good the kitchen appliances and cabinets look. :(
When touring a house once I asked the seller's agent if the fireplace was functional and operational. She said "I don't live here, so I don't know." I mean, a fireplace is a main feature and some are just ornamental so you'd think she'd think to ask the sellers about it. And if she really didn't know why not answer "I'll ask the sellers and get back to you on that one." Nope, just left it at shrug. Half the times when I've toured properties I got the impression it was the first time the seller's agent had even been in the house.
Many only know how to parrot "factoids" they've heard somewhere. "Don't buy and living in 100 year old houses" is one such example. Maybe they just don't like that older homes are cheaper and they are trying to maximize their commission.
