I wrote this almost two years ago for one of my other blogs. I think it still holds true.
Look for results...not just the advertisement!
OK, this is probably - no, it is, written tongue-in-cheek.
When you are looking to "hire" a real state agent to sell your home, be cautious if you hear these words of "wisdom(?)".
- You want to list your house at that price? That is way too low for this market!
- Don't worry about the yard...buyers only want to see what is inside!
- For you I will reduce my real estate commission
- Advertise on the Internet? Why? I only advertise in newspapers.
- Oh, a sign out front is really all we need.
- I only return calls in the evening.
- I don't work weekends.
- Staging a home in this market is not really required.
- A lockbox is not required. We can have all showings scheduled when you can be home!
- I will try....
What do I say? For a further explanation of these responses, please feel free to contact me.
- Price it right;
- Enhance the curb appeal;
- This is my living;
- Most clients come from Internet promotion. Newspaper ads are nice for open houses;
- A sign out front is only the first step;
- I return calls at my earliest convenience - several times a day;
- I work every weekend;
- Staging is critical;
- Ease of showing is a critical marketing step;
- I do. If I can't do more than "will try" then I don't take on the task!
Gary L. Waters PLLC, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Rockledge, Florida serving Florida's Space Coast including the cities and communities of Melbourne, Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach and the surrounding region.
Read my blogs Florida Homes for Sale, Moving to Brevard County, Florida, and Brevard County Florida Real Estate Information.
Hi Gary, I like the way you phrased #9, about the ease of showing.
#11 Not to worry, your home will sell in _________ days
#12 If I double end it, I'll charge you half!
Ty
Thanks for the article. We learn a lot from Active Rain Blogs. Best Regards,
I hate to admit it, but I have a friend that really struggles with number one. It's easier said than done. It's difficult to tell someone who has lived in their house for 15 years that their house is only worth $150K, even though they paid close to that when they bought it and a neighbor down the street sold there house for $220K. He would never be intentionaly deceitful with a homeowner, but good intentions or not, it is a misrepresentation if you know the value to be something different than what you indicate to the homeowner.
Liz - Thanks, you can't sell if you can't show!
Edward & Celia - Thanks.
Ty - A couple of good additions. Thanks.
Daniel - I think it is a a challenge for many of us. Thanks.
Gary I like the way you gave the statements agents should not make; but then showed the proper way to phrase the answers.
Jenniefer - Thanks, sometimes it is as simple as sayingit with the right words!
So true! Brings to mind two sayings: "You get what you pay for" and "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."
Sharon - Those two sayings should be on every birth certificate! Thanks.
I must be naive, do agents really say this stuff and think they are professionals? Your comments show you know your trade, you will work hard for your customers and you know your worth.
Lois - Thanks so much fro the kind words. I have heard agents say these things!
Hey Stranger,
Thanks for the reminder of Home Staging is a must! And, Happy New Year too!
2010..yes, happy to be along for the ride,
Nora Marek
Nora - Long time no hear from! Hope all is well. And staging is critical!