Over the years, we have come to know and work with many realtors. In that time, our conversations have frequently turned to the challenges we face trying to advance our profession. Here’s what the best agents would like you to know:
1. We’re NOT all the same. The best of us devote time each week to evaluating the inventory and seeing it first-hand, attending classes or webinars so we can remain informed and relevant, and networking with others so we can provide a better experience and outcome for you. We have committed to competency around technology, social media, and digital prospecting — because it matters. Ask the next agent you meet what makes them unique in their market. The best can answer you without hesitation.
2. We’d like to get to know you. Really, we would! So when you call and want to see a house and we ask you to come to the office first, that’s why. We would like to better understand your needs, consult with you regarding the process, and offer an effective course of action. Oh, and by the way — we’d like to stay safe. Meeting a stranger at a home is never a good idea. You certainly understand that, don’t you?
3. We work in our client’s best interests. Have you ever wondered why you have been asked to sign-in at an open house? (Because the seller would like to know who has been there and they have instructed us to do so!) Why you have been requested to obtain mortgage pre-approval? (Your time could be completely wasted looking at the wrong type or price of home.) Or why you’ve been told you need to list your current home before shopping for the next one? (In certain markets, an offer with a home sale contingency could make it extremely difficult for you to purchase your home of choice.) We’re not trying to make things more difficult, really. We’re trying to honor our clients by respecting their wishes, setting them up to achieve their goals, and helping them avoid a loss – of time, money, opportunity. We’ve seen what can happen and we’re looking to avoid any bumps in the road.
4. We’re not all rolling in the dough. Agents have often shared that they feel they must defend their compensation, and it’s largely because the public generally doesn’t understand how we work. We are small business owners with fixed and variable expenses, and net only a fraction of our gross income. The best agents invest significant money and time in marketing their listings, and because they do, they attract more interest and offers. Consider “what will I NET?” over “what will I SPEND” — and give greater consideration to the agent who can show you the difference.
And finally:
5. We’re worthy of your respect. You trust us to help you make BIG — hundreds of thousands and sometimes multi-million dollar — decisions. We advocate, we advise, we negotiate. We pledge our loyalty and discretion while working hard on your behalf with no guarantee of compensation. We care about your experience and sometimes set aside our own personal and family obligations to put you first. We promise to respect you – will you do the same?