User8657_4_t San Diego Real Estate Voice authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-PRO
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Once the seller has prepared the property for market, there is still one critical thing you can do that will make a big difference in the the co-operating agents' and their Buyers experience of the property.

I prepare a Welcome Letter in larger than normal print size that covers some of the important things in tthat he home as well as invites the Buer's ( As Guests) to enjoy their home and provides a few extra things that will be welcome.

This Welcome Letter is put on a cleared table or console at the entry so it is not missed. The letter is mounted on a stand-up card backing next to the property Brochure.

The table is important as the Agent and Guests (as the Buyers will be referred to) are invited to lay keys, notebooks, papers on it while they tour the home. If the home is a " Remove shoes " residence,  shoe covers are also there along with a chair sitting along side the table to assist the Agent and the guests be comfortable.

The Letter is all important because it covers so many really important things. It invites the Guests and Agent to use the Guest Facilities if needed and  to find beverages ( iced tee, colas and water) in the refrigerator. On the table is also placed a bowl of candies ( individually wrapped chocolates or mints) for the Sellers guests. Comment cards and a nice pen are also placed there inviting comments on the home. Many of thees things when not spoken about can create awkward moments. By giving permission in advance the Guests and Agent always feel more comfortable.

This letter also has special instructions about details in the house that the Seller wants to remind the REALTOR  or Guests about. An example of that is to leave the lights and music on, to be careful on the steps ( up and down )and lock exit doors, turn off ceiling fans, etc.

In the Powder Room or Guest Bath or whichever one is to be used, special hand towels and soaps are provided with a note that they are there for the guests. This clears up the mystery of wondering if these items are OK to use.

If there are items that don't convey such as a favorite light fixture or heirloom , they can be pointed out.

Throughout the home , special cards are attached to items that might be conveyed, such as built-in bookcases, vanities , etc.

On the inside of the front Entrance Door. a THANK YOU for visiting the seller's home, signed in the owners handwriting. This personalized way of directing the showing makes the Agent and Guests feel welcome. It also goes a long way to to make the Guests and Agent feel welcome.

The Comment Cards title is " YOUR COMMENTS are WELCOME and APPRECIATED".

 

 

6 Comments on This little extra consideration when preparing a home....A Welcome Letter

Wow!  These are all great ideas.  I am certain it sets you apart as the professional.  I know your sellers appreciate you going that extra mile

05/20/2007 06:03 PM by Anne-Marie Castillo (Keller Williams Realty)


I would love to see a picture of how you have this set up. About the notes attached to certain items throughout the house- not just sticky notes I assume?

05/20/2007 06:10 PM by Sarah Nopp, REALTOR(R), CRS. RE/MAX Four Seasons, Olympia WA (RE/MAX Four Seasons)


Any nice stationary will do. You can buy decorative Border papers from Office Club, Staples, any good paper or office supply store. Print in larger fonts, decorative and colorful works best.

 

The cards are just printed anouncments on 8.5 x 11 card stock, then cut down so that several can be done at one time. If your printer can't print on card stock, use paper, cut and paste on a card. Then are set them around on shelves or surfacs that are available. The card for the bath sets on the vanity-I have also mounted  it directly on a mirror for a pedestal sink. It is pretty easy and this really works well. I have agents tell me it felt great to know that it was ok to use the bathroom and the beverages were great. kept the Buyers in the house longer.

Mounting stand up boards are inexpensive and picture framer shops are a good source.  3M mastic the letter on and you are done.

05/20/2007 07:57 PM by San Diego Real Estate Voice authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-PRO (RE/MAX Associates)


I like the idea of a Welcome Letter....a lot.  Your sellers must LOVE you.  Thanks for sharing this great tip!

05/20/2007 08:11 PM by Peggy Edwards, REALTORĀ®, Green Designation, Tampa, FL (Coldwell Banker)


Awesome ides!!  Gets people to stay and feel welcome with the little extras. thanks for sharing!!

05/20/2007 08:46 PM by Melanie Ross, GRI Benicia Ca & Vallejo Ca Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Solano Pacific)


Dear Peggy and Melanie,

Thanks so much for the comments. Try this and I think you will also impress your clients. Many times its the little things that make all the difference.

All the Best!

Sincerely,

William

05/21/2007 12:18 AM by San Diego Real Estate Voice authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-PRO (RE/MAX Associates)


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Real Estate Agent: San Diego Real Estate Voice authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-PRO (RE/MAX Associates)
San Diego Real Estate Voice authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-PRO
San Diego, CA
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Real Estate blogs Disclaimer: The information contained in any post written by William Johnson is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and the opinions expressed in these are writings are my own. I disclaim any liability for any damages or loses direct or indirect that may result from use of, or reliance upon any information contained in this blog or for the accuracy of comments or opinions expressed by others. You are advised not to rely any information contained herein without your  own verification of the information.