Here is the scenario: Two guys show up for a job interview where their is only one position available.
The first applicant arrives 10-minutes early with a perfect resume in hand,impeccable dress, a smile, firm handshake and positive attitude.
The second applicant arrives a couple of minutes prior to the scheduled appointment, spilled coffee on their clothing, no resume, and smelling of cigarette smoke.
Who gets the job? You don’t have to be a human resources expert to figure that one out but my guess is the first impression will go a long way toward this decision.
Now consider how this mirrors selling your house or condo? Your buyer shows up and either your house is prepared or not. Ready or not, your buyer prospects are out front!
Like a job interview, your first 10 seconds will determine the mental decision on whether you are a contender or dismissed!
Take the time to be prepared on day one as you only get one chance.
Overcoming a negative first impression is almost always impossible! And if you do overcome the negative start, it will likely cost you in a lower offer!
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.
Whether your interest lies in a 55+ community such as Heritage Isle, a golf course community such as Baytree National Golf Links or water front, give me a call!
Read my blog Florida Homes for Sale, Moving to Brevard County, Florida, and Brevard County Florida Real Estate Information.
You never get a second chance to make a good first impression! I like this analgoy a lot. And what difference in makes in a house. IF they have taken the time to spruce up the front porch...or the entry way it will go a long ways!
Deborah - Thanks. Amazing how we as real estate people understand this concept but sellers often don't catch on!
I agree with you 100%. Most customers, who are really interested in selling their home, understand this concept. If not, I explain it to them.
Lois - You hit right on it - really interested in selling. Thanks.
Gary, great post. It is important to invest your time and money into the house appearance. I always tell my clients that they wold invest into nice set of close if they are going to the job interview so they should really INVEST into their house when it's on the market. Ideally before.
I also say that keeping your house tight when it's on the market is like wearing hills at you best friend's wedding. You know that you will get home soon and take them off but you must look beautiful now. Same with the house. And better it looks - less time on the market.
Anna - Great point on investing in clothes. Appropriate preparation does bring the right results.
I don't know Gary. What if the job is at Starbucks, or Marlboro? LOL.
You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Gary, I really like your metaphor! I thought this was going to go in another direction!
I'm going to use this analogy, Gary. Perhaps, just perhaps, it will finally sink in with some sellers!
Russel - Starbucks? At least the coffee is free I hope. Thanks.
Patricia - Thanks. I almost went to the listing presentation approach as the interview but it was too logical.
Irene - Thanks, Irene. Good luck.
Well put Gary! Great analogy and one that anyone can understand. It's so so true isn't it?
Al & Peggy - Very true. Thanks.
Loved your post..... Great way to have seller relate...
Kellie
Denver Colorado
Great Post. If more people realized this selling their homes would be much easier.
Indeed a great post - that fist impression can make or break a relationship!
Gary, love #1 comment - first impressions are lasting and when a house gets a bad rap, the word gets around the real estate community. Love the analogy.
Kellie - Thanks.
Lesley - Sometimes they just will not listen, imagine that! Thanks
Barbara-Jo - First impressions have failed me many times..but have been good too!
Sharon - Thanks...The word does get around when a house is just not worth the price and your time!
Gary- first thank you to Patricia Kennedy for including your post in her weekly Review! I loved your analogy, and unfortunately some of the homes I've seen fit the description of your second applicant. Jobs are scarce as are buyers and an applicant/seller needs to make a good first impression. Some people get this but unfortunately some still don't.
I showed one of my new listings today and the seller did each and every thing that I recommended! I just gave her a hug to show my appreciation. The buyer seemed to like the house!
Margaret
Kathy - Thanks. Margaret's comment shows one who does get it!
Margaret - Thanks. Nice to have one of them happy moments!
Both of you have a great week!
Gary, I agree with the others on the imortance of the first few minutes or really seconds when you meet someone for the first time.
Remember that your car is often the first impression when the prospect is standing at the window watching for you to drive up.