Yesterday a friend in real estate asked me to stop by as he wanted to chat so I did.

He'd listed an Open House for REALTORS, one of many.  As usual, no one showed up to view the product.  George was discouraged.

 We spoke for well over an hour about the lack of focus most REALTORS have on learning the product.  He just doesn't understand how or why his fellow professionals in the business don't go on tour to see the product (houses, condominiums, etc.) even when it is made easy and welcoming like the way George does it.  George always has a welcoming attitude.  George is thankful that you came and if you would like a warm cookie or some M&Ms (yes, peanut ones too), he has those also.

 We spoke about his past life when he was a trainer for the "newbees".  He spoke about how important product knowledge is to succeed.  George continued to vent and then he said something that really stuck with me.  George said, "But they all took a Pledge."  He was speaking of the REALTOR Pledge all REALTORS take before they are inducted into the Board of REALTORS.

 The idea of this Pledge made me pause and think and my conclusion was this is a thing of the past.   I thought how fortunate I was to be with a REALTOR who adheres to this daily AND believes in it with a passion.

 When you choose a REALTOR whom to work with, ask them when was the last time they toured the "product".  And I caution you, choose only a REALTOR who does because...if you are a Seller, that REALTOR will be strong and educated enough to guide you to correct pricing (no matter what the market is) and therefore a timely sale.  If you are a Buyer, you'll be dealing with a REALTOR who can give you good product knowledge, help you submit a fair and reasonable Offer to Purchase which will be accepted, and still get the property for a good price.

 There are tons of REALTORS from which to choose.  Choose one like George, a man of principals.