I’ve been reading a number of blog articles lately from other real estate agents who promote themselves as though they’re the cure for cancer. They proceed to explain why potential clients should select them as their agent. They all use many of the same descriptive terms - ‘Honest’ or ‘Ethical’ or ‘Hard-working.’ And it just makes you scratch your head and wonder, if all of them are so honest, ethical, and hard-working, why is the general public’s perception/approval rating of real estate agents so low?
Many of the agents I know respond to Seller inquiries rather agressively. This isn’t bad, in and of itself. Being confident in one’s abilities is a good trait, as long as it doesn’t supersede or overshadow the best interests of the potential client.
But ‘One Size’ doesn’t fit All. Let me explain…
Whenever I become engaged in conversation with a potential client, I let them know up front, that while they’re interviewing me, I am interviewing them as well. There are so many dynamics and variables that exist from one client to the next, I just never assume that I will work/partner with everyone who asks.
I’m not being rude or arrogant in this approach. The working relationship between a real estate professional and their client is crucial to achieving success. In a slow market like we are experiencing right now, with high levels of inventory and highly selective Buyers, it is imperative that a home be priced agressively and the necessary steps be taken to ensure that the home is adequately prepared for market.
Quite honestly, there are some instances where I feel customers can be served better through other means:
With all the recent foreclosures, short sales are becoming increasingly common. This area is not one of my strong suits, so I would probably refer it to another agent, one that I know has proven ability.
If someone is ‘upside down’ (owes more on the house than they could sell it for), or lacks equity, it may be better for them to consider using a ‘limited-service’ agency - a ‘per menu’ provider that will place their home in the local MLS for a flat fee. Typically these agencies will only put up a yard sign, fill up the flyer box, and enter the home in the MLS. They typically don’t help counsel you or negotiate any offers that come in. You’re on your own there. But that might be a better situation for some, as opposed to using a ‘full-service’ agent. 
What are the specific, current market dynamics in the area of the subject property? What are the inventory levels of comparably priced homes? What are the Seller’s goals or timeframes for selling? These are just some of the nuances that vary with each situation.
So while I like to think I’m a pretty good agent, I realize that I can’t be all things to all people.
That’s one of the many benefits of blogging. It allows me to share insights into who and what I am. Through my writing, I can convey my unique perspective, my passions, and my personality. Prospective clients can determine whether we would be a good fit without ever having met in person. How cool is that?
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