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If you want new clients, give this a try.

blackberry phone I took two new listings this week from brand new clients. I always like to ask how they found me and why they decided to go with me vs. any of the other thousands of real estate agents active in Boise, Idaho? In doing so I've discovered, re-discovered, and confirmed the largest return on investment of all the things I do to generate new clients.

The answer to the first part of the question is somewhat predictable, they found me on the internet, usually Google. That's to be expected, it means what I'm doing online with my websites and Active Rain is working.

The second part always surprises me. When asked why did you pick me? The overwhelming response is "you answered your phone." I know for a fact that in one instance I was the third agent they had called. It's sad but true that one of the easiest ways to differentiate yourself in the market place is to make yourself accessible.

I spend a lot of time online working on websites and my blog and I've come to realize that if you're not accessible you can have all the visitors, inquires, and blog subscribers in the world, if you don't respond, they move on and in one instance this week very quickly.

Jokingly, when one of the buyer's agents on my team that I can never get hold of asks me where all the leads are, I simply hold up my phone and say "on the other end of this thing."

Posted by Brian Brumpton, Boise Idaho Real Estate on 10/08/2009 07:09 PM

Comments (157)

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157 Comments on If you want new clients, give this a try.

OCT

2009

Very True. I am a new REALTOR but I am also a business owner who owns two gyms and is building a third. I am busier than most but I always answer my phone and if for some odd reason I am not available I call back right away.

Brian,

This is oh so true and a lesson for us all.

Sharon

Good post. I too get business from the internet and I always ask the "How did you find me" question but I never thought to ask the "Why did you select me" question. I will ask in the future. Thanks.

Its amazing how many agents don't answer their phone. We have to be accessible to answer our clients questions!

Joshua - Holly cow, you get a pass if you don't pick up on the first ring.

Team Knowles - I think it's especially critical with people who find you on the net. You can bet they have a long list of search results at their fingertips, and when people on the net actually decide to place a call, they are ready to go.

In addition to answering, you should do it with the sound of a smile in your voice.

We hear the same thing. It's just mind boggling to me how so many seem to neglect to just pick up the phone (or call back asap). ~Rita

If I am unable to answer because I am on another line, I call back immediately. Great reminder and post Brian!

Glad it works for you. I don't have my direct number on ANY marketing because there are too many crazies and psychos out there. THey must either leave me a message in which I usually call back within a minute, or my VM says to email me. Putting my direct number out for anyone to know is not the smartest thing, in my book, and I know many others disagree.

Brian, This is a great reminder to all of us. There were a few agents in my office that always wondered why they didn't get very many leads. I observed them for about a week. Their phones rang often, but they were too busy talking with each other to answer. Usually, later in the day they would return the call, but many time the client had moved on to someone more willing to take care of business. Needless to say, they are both out of the business now, which is good for us.

Here, here Brian. I've done blog posts myself about agents not answering their phones. And I actually got responses back from agents defending themselves for not answering their phones, ie. "if I answered my phone every time it rang I wouldn't get anything done". Can you believe that? Great post and best of luck to you.

Brian, we know this is true because alot of clients say 'thanks for returning my call', we can't believe some Agents don't return calls.!!!! Loved your response to your buyer Agent about where the leads are, we have one like that! Just may use your line!

I've heard that from people too. They call until they get an agent that answers the phone because in todays high paced atmosphere, no one wants to wait.

You know this is one of those catch 22's. I don't pick up the phone during client consultations/outings. I think it is rude to the client I am talking with: they deserve my full attention. I pick up when I can, but current clients deserve respect. If someone doesn't hire me because I respect my current clients...they probably aren't the right client for me.

Hi Brian ~ It is mind boggling that the same agents who spend a fortune on marketing don't pick up the phone or answer their emails in a timely manner. You're preaching to the converted though I'm afraid. Those who respond promptly will continue to do so and those who don't will continue with their bad habits too, (as I'm sure you know from the buyer agent you mention in your post).

Denise

So many agents you can't get a hold of for many hours or days at the time. I guess it is natural that people want to talk to somebody that will pick up the phone and answer the question immediately.

YEP- I agree. QWuick response is #1 and answering the phone. Pretty easy isn't it.

I fall in the same category as Melina. I stopped using a home inspector because he answered his phone during the inspection process. My clients were paying him for his time and mine was being wasted as well. He may have picked up a few new transactions, but he lost all my future referrals.

I totally get your point though. Some agents never, ever answer their phone, those who do are more likely to get that buyer who is ready to work with someone now.

Love your blog, very nicely put together!

Hi Brian...I also make sure I am notified on my phone when I receive an e-mail. That way if it is a prospect or one of my clients I can respond quickly often by phone.

Kate

That is very true, the phone is vital for this business. I have had two referrals from Realtors in other states because they found me on Realtor.com or Google and I answered the phone when they call me, and one more thing always answer with the smile they don't see it, but they feel it.

most of the successful secrets of Real Estate are actually Common Sense

This is a great post! Not only do agents not answer their phone and let the voicemail sit there, a lot do not answer emails either. Both are vital in this day and age!

Brian, wow 2 leads from your site in one week. that's awesome and I agree we must answer our phone by the 2nd ring or call back within minutes before they move on to someone else.

Donna,

I understand your reservation about posting your number on marketing materials and you clearly make yourself available by providing an email address.

Melina,

When I'm with clients, I don't answer my phone either. On listing appointments, I leave it in the car. I'm not advocating that it's not OK to let people go to voice mail. I'm talking about agents that gripe about not having anything going and when you call them, you always get voice mail.

Of course at times it's impossible to answer EVERY phone call, but I try to answer each and every one. I've also been told by clients that I was the only person to answer their phone or call them back.

Colleen,

Thank you. And I agree with you. I don't and nor would I tolerate others answering phone calls in the middle of an appointment. When I first got licensed I didn't go to work with the brokerage I planned to work for because the guy I interviewed with kept taking calls.

I was put off because he didn't think it was important enough to give me a half hour of his undivided attention.

But if you're not with a client why wouldn't you pick up your phone?

What a concept, answering the phone I'll try that sometime;)

That is so very important. The could never make a lot of the agents that don't answer their phone understand that. They just can't see it. But all the more clients for you!

When someone is ready to buy or list a house, they usually don't want to wait to have a phone call returned, they want to talk like right now!

Heather - Juding from the picture you have your hands full. You get a pass.

Absolutely true. Response time is everything to today's consumers. I can't always answer my phone because I might be on the other line when I get a call, but you can bet I return that voice mail right away.

You nailed it. I find people so grateful that I answered the phone or returned a call. How do you NOT if you want business? Donna, you're right, the world is full of crazies, but even if they have your phone NUMBER they can't get to YOU....

That is too funny, I answer from 9 am to 6 pm and it goes to answering machine after that. But I work em as hard as I can but at my age 24/7 isn't where it's at.

I agree.. getting back to people is inportant. Some times we can't answer right away fro different reasons. Calling back ASAP can be vital in getting the lead

I don't answer when I'm in the bathroom. I can't answer if I've laid my phone down in another room (getting older -- can't dash like I used to). I don't answer when I'm with another customer. Other than that I'm accessible.

Even then I don't bat 1000.

I have heard this many times, and it makes sense! It's just like when we call other companies; you just want to speak to a real person, not recordings. Nice job!

Brian, this is so very true. It is one of my biggest complaints as well and so frustrating when trying to get some one.

It always amazes me how many Agents don't answer or return their phone calls. This is their lifeline to their business...

Also, many agents are now holding full time jobs and it's very difficult to get them on the phone during "business hours". They check their messages once they get off work, which is usually in the evening.

I would love to say that all agents answer or - at least - return the calls but it would not be true. I wish some of them don't answer only the other agents' calls. I wish their clients were more lucky.

With some patience and persistency you will get what you need but shall all the potential clients be so patient?!!

I have seen this mentioned several times about the need to answer your phone when it seems like it would be a no-brainer. Good for you, Brian, for answering that call.

I'm with you...I always answer my phone. Unless, I'm with a client.

I got a new lead this week too that found us online and I answered my phone. I have an unwritten rule with all of my clients that unless I am in a close or with my family that I always answer my phone.

You are so correct! I have Google voice and I am in the process of changing all my marketing to that number - I have 3 numbers that it rings on so 3 phones that go off! I of course never answer when with clients - that is just a given.

A video I watched that talked about to be a better real estate agent said something similar which has stuck with me. The guy said if you can't be good at least be there. I think he was trying to be comical but it is still good advice. In other words show up on time, answer your phone, respond to emails. One the most important parts of our job is being available.

Thanks for the reminder that sometimes the most important things are the easiest to accomplish.

I would just like to add that while I'm on a listing appointment or showing properties to Buyers - I remind them that I'm not taking calls while I'm working with them and giving them my FULL attention. AND I assure them that if they leave me a message in the future, I am likely working with another client and I will promptly return their call (and I do). That prepares them to get a little less annoyed should they get my voice mail in the future.

Firstly, I just got the Storm, and I love it. Secondly, I believe it's Mike Ferry who tells his students to leave a message on their phone say that they will get back to the caller at two specific times in the day. That boggles my mind. I am trying to get hold of an agent who is going to give me the courtesy of calling me back at 6:00 p.m. For sure I am going to sit around and wait anxiously for that call. Not. I am off to someone who picks up the phone and answers my question.

Congrtulations on the two new clients. You deserve them.

I agree and funny how the basics of customer service are often forgotten. Many times I get comments from my clients regarding how easy I am at get in touch with when they need my help. I just treat people the way I would want to me treated...the golden rule you know.

OCT

2009

Brian, I agree with you. Accessibility is very important in today's market place.

Brian - Like Melina and Elizabeth, I physically can't answer every phone call because sometimes I'm on the other line with a client and I refuse to put a client on hold while I answer another line. I also don't answer calls when I am meeting with a client, that too would be rude and unprofessional to the client in front of me. I do, however, return my calls as quickly as possible.

Just today, I was on the phone with a client when my other line rang. I was on with the client for nearly 30 minutes. As soon as I finished my call, I checked my messages and I had a call from a prospect that said she found me on the internet and wanted to talk about a loan program she read about on my blog.

I immediately called her back. Her first response, "WOW, I didn't expect a call back so fast". REALLY? It's almost as if she didn't expect anyone to call her back. That's really a sad impression of someone has about my industry. Hopefully, the really great conversation we had and my follow-up email with the additional info she requested will give her a better impression of my industry.

Hi Brian,

Does it work if you text them back that you are with a client and will get back to them as soon as you are available? Shannon Coe Keller Williams Brentwood Ca

Reach out and touch someone. Definitely, answer that phone unless you are currently serving a different valued client.

Blackberry should appreciate your non-compensated endorsement.

What a concept! . Answering the phone has suddenly become a premium service

Brian It is old fashioned courtesy that makes good business sense Karen

Linda,

I have to say, I love my Blackberry and I sure hope they do.

That's why voice mail is so often followed by the word "hell."

It's great to surprise the heak out of people and actually pick up the calls right away - with enthusiasum or call them back FAST.

Brian,

Right on!!!! I have gained new listings and buyer clients simply by answering my phone. More than once on a Saturday I have answered my phone and in the course of the conversation the potential buyer says, "You are the only one who answered your phone!" How sad that such a basic thing would be neglected.

Accessibility is absolutely key. It's one thing to get yourself on Google, but you need to answer the phone.

Shannon,

For the most part I don't take calls or text when I'm with a client unless I know it's an emergency. You can't always answer your phone every time but you should do it more often than not.

Common sense always prevails! ;)

Brian, Great reminder! It's the long distance numbers that I tend to not answer due to the stinking sales trolls!

The basics -- answer your phone and respond to your emails quickly -- those that respond first will win and you are speding all those dollars trying to get the emails and phone calls

This is great information, thanks for getting it out to us today on AR.

Patricia/Seacoast NH

It is hard for those selling undies at Macy's or flipping burgers to grab the phone at all times. Part-timers are hurting their client, their agency, and the profession.

Yes, answering your phone and responding to email is a essential ingredient. The other day I was speaking with a client and ask if I could put them on hold while, I went to answer the other call that was coming in and my client --- responded with no I do not want to be put on hold and she went further to tell me that I was being rude and practicing bad phone etiquette, I should let the other call go into my voice mail. So, sometimes your in a no win situation.

"I never heard back". So many agents spend lots of money for leads, but the leads never hear back.

So Very true. It sometimes take an online buyer many searches on the web to finally pick up the phone to call an agent and then we disappoint them by not answering the phone. Good reminder to all us busy agents

This is definitely the tool of the trade. I find myself asking the same questions as well and get same responses.

Kudos!

Diego Jaramillo
Keller Williams Realty
Houston, TX

It's always amazing to hear this, that people don't get a response. Congrats on your new listings. We always pick up unless we're with a client. In that case, we'll call back asap.

"People buy people before they buy a product." You can be as tech savvy as you want, but if you don't answer your phone, you are leaving too much on the table for those who DO answer their phone. Our national lead network is based on the concept of "warm transfer." If you don't answer the phone, you don't get the lead.

We mentor new agents in the office when asked. Their question always is, "How can I be successful like you"?"

It's easy - Our first piece of advice - Return people's calls/emails the same day! Second, Do what you say you are going to do and do it quickly. If something gets in your way, let the person know you will be delayed.

Just treat others the way you want to be treated. It really is that simple.

Lastly stay educated!!! There are new trends and new people coming into the business everyday with new ideas. Stay ahead of them. Joy

Brian,

Right on! I have often thought that a plumber of contractor that actually answered their phone would be the busiest business on earth. Same goes for Realtors, ring ring.

Brian,
Good post - very true - obviously there are different levels of imlementation.

Jane,
I personally do not care for that, especially when I have something urgent going on, it's a big turnoff - I like his son better anyway. :-)

Lorraine,
Putting people on hold is right there with not answering your phone, do that to me, and I will hang up on you - and I don't call back. I suspect I am not the only one out there. That hold button should be reserved for very special times.

Great post Brian! Imagine, business actually CALLING YOU! I am the same way as the person in your post. If I am searching for a service provider I will call until I find someone to answer their phone. I have learned from years of experience that often times leaving a message may not always get a return call. For me, I set aside times of the day that I need to get something accomplished and getting a call back 3 days later? I have moved on and now you are in my time I have scheduled for something else and am unable to devote the time I need to discuss why I have called! I have to think most people are the same! We live in a time where things are moving a mile a minute and if we as Real Estate Professionals do not make the time for our clients or potential clients, they will move on!

Brian,

So true....think about how you react yourself when you call a co-broke and get voice mail or they take forever to get back to you.....VERY IMPORTANT TO ANSWER THAT PHONE or at least call back immediately...

So true...I got a new client looking for a house off my sign just yestedat. She said not only did I answer the phone but I took the time to show her my listing 2 times in the same day...she could not get any other listing agents to show her their homes even once. Be available- it doesn't pay off everytime but eventually it will.

I added to my voicemail a message that says I may be with another client or in a meeting and unable to answer right away but you can text me for a quicker response. This may rub some of you the wrong way who think texting is very impersonal but sometimes I find people appreciate having another means available to contact me in a hurry. (sometimes you can text and let them know you are with someone but will call them soon). Works for me.

Golly Brian, now you're giving away one of my "secrets"! I have got more business because I was the first to respond!

Do you know how many times I have heard :"Thank you for calling me, I emailed (or submitted something online" and you were the first to call me!"? Cha-ching!

Enjoy your day!

So, in conclusion, your advice is to answer your phone and write blog posts. That's not too hard. I can handle that! (Hard to believe that others cannot)

Brian,

What a great post!!

It amazes me when I hear Agents/Realtors say "I can't believe I lost another Client/Customer" and my answer is, answer your phone! If they don't get you, they will call someone else that just may answer their phone.

I have my phone with me wherever I go (and I mean wherever) except for bed and I have a back-up Accessline that I check quite frequently.

Whether you are taking a walk or shopping, you should answer your phone (say you are in a meeting, with another Client/Customer) just acknowledge them so they will wait for your call back..otherwise you just may lose them all together.

Jo Porter (Re/Max Prestige)

So many RE related marketers have my cell number, sometimes I cringe when it rings, lol.

Being available is important but if you're too available it can signal you don't have any business.

Have you heard of click to call? You can add a widget to all your online stuff that doesn't give your number. Click to Call

LOL.... I picked up a Realtor as a referral source for answering on a Saturday

It is surprising how many agents do not call people back, or pick up at all. I have been guilty before, don't get me wrong. However, it seems each time I return a voice mail, the people are shocked. It just goes to show the little things (that ofter go unnoticed) are most important.

It's a funny thing. every time I call an agent to check on a property I am caught by surprise when they answer their phone. Here in Temecula, CA, maybe 10% answer, soooo frustrating. I am happy that you got them, maybe some will learn a lesson from this!

Melisa,

That's the secret sauce right there!

Brian... I too never cease to be amazed how many times I'm told that other agents won't answer their phones of return calls. But it becomes really evident when I call about a showing or for info, and the agents won't even answer of call me back! That's why I answer immeidately, call back immediately if I'm busy, and have my emails coming in to my Blackberry so I can hop right on them and give my clients and potentials an immediate response. It's the ONLY way to do business!

Wow, I didn't see that coming. But it is so true. I have the same problem sometimes contacting agents. It's all about being accessible.

Marian

Brian: I have gotten a lot of business over the years ~ just from answering my phone. I really don't know why agents spend money on advertising ~ then don't respond when the phone rings.

Brian: You hit the nail on the head. Being accessible to clients is essential, but many Brokers are guilty of not returning calls to fellow Brokers.

True business etiquette has always been to respond to calls immediately, unless in a meeting or working with another client. It's rude to the people you are with to disrupt the time with them to get the next client. If you can't take the call, then as soon as you have the chance return the call and let them know exactly why you couldn't pick it up the first time. It definitely builds respect.

Brian: This is so true it is laughable. So many agents feel they are too important or too busy to pick up their phone … no clue what they are missing. The other side of the phone thing is to not answer it when we are with clients ….there is a balance. Great post … thanks!

Totally with you! Last Friday I received an email from a couple in Arizona, I replied via phone and email at 8:00 in the am- (they emailed at 4:00 am). Met them and showed them houses on Monday and they were under contract by Wednesday 8:00 am on a house in St. Louis with me. I asked them if they would like to to call some agents in the area where they would be selling their current home and they thought that was great- so now I have the commission on the house they are buying in St. Louis and a referral too.

While I was calling agents in Arizona... It took me four hours and 15 phone calls to find two agents that I would recommend. Many didn't answer their phones and when I asked how they advertise the listings- they didn't have an Internet presence... who is this day does not syndicate their listings online? Apparently many of them in Arizona do not... and it was really hard to find the two that do... Most responses I got were that they put it on their MLS systems and that was it... People really need to get with the times!

Excellent post!

It is great that other agents do not answer their phones. That is just more opportunity for me!

Justin - I hear you. It's a necessary evil I guess. I even have to answer the 800 numbers now because it may be the bank calling on a short sale.

Communication is still the key.....from the first call untill after the close of escrow. You will get more business with answering that phone call the first time and you will keep those people for life if you can proactively communicate with them during and after the transaction has closed.

One of my fellow agents is fond of saying" let it ring, there are no real estate emergencies!'. I say how do you know if you don't answer the phone?

You can't forget the basics!

What a concept! I just got a customer becasue I answered my phone on Saturday! No One Else Did! i'LL TAKE THAT $9,000.00 ... Thank You!

Hi Brian,

How true. Think of all the commissions agents lose by not answering their phones.

I also let people know they can text me too. Many 20 and 30-somethings prefer to text.

David Knox has a great video posted on answering the phone - we saw it in team meeting - I could point fingers!!!!!

This is so basic and many people do not do it. I only have my cell phone. No other business line.

Literally, a major key to success and longevity. I live by this same rule and it pays off in heaps and mounds!

Keepin' it moving!

JCT

Hello Brian,

Great post! I answer my phone too. Thank you for sharing. when a consumer have a real estate needs they will call until one agent answered their phone and if you are the one answering, you will be the agent they want to work with.

Back-to-basics..... answer your phone!

Thanks for the reminder!

Kathy Opatka

Brian, Great post. You can see by the number of responses that it is an important subject. I know that I have heard over and over that I was selected because I answered my phone.

When I started in the business 10+ yrs ago, I placed my cell phone number on my listings and actually answered the phone when people called. My fellow agents could not believe my success and accused me of stealing THEIR clients. How could a newbie be generating all the business? When people called into the office I made sure I was the one there to answer the call and offered my cell # to all I met. The long timers again accused me of stealing their customers. The soon learned my secret!! Answer the phone!! What a concept.

I'm struggling with e-mail responses for the last 2 days, in bed with the flu. I'm coughing less now, so I can type and get my dose of AR that will surely make me all better.

I've read 2 post so far today and they both had something to do with AR driving business to them. I guess I'm in the right place. I have my phone with me as well.

Duh! Why didn't I think of that. Answer the phone! Another example of the fact that you don't always have to pay for leads. They just might come if you answer the phone every once in awhile.

100% true! too many agents never answer the phone! We can all be amazed at the stupidity of it, but it's true!

I have gotten several clients this way. Continuing to answer your phone is also the way to keep them happy during the transaction.

Communicate, communicate, communicate!

Thank God for texting!!

What a simple concept that most don't get. I don't even look at the caller id, I answer in my usual happy tone on every call. If I miss the call (being in the powder room or on another call), I call back right away!

Oh.... I don't think it is very nice to put someone on hold for another call coming in. It tells the person who you are talking to that they are not as important as the call coming in. The other call might be Mr. Million Dollar buyer, but common courtesy to the current call is important (I know there are exceptions!).

Brian,

I get the same exact answers. I may not have been the first they called, but I was the first that answered the phone.

Most of the comments I get from my customer / clients is that at least you answer your phone or call right back. It always amazes me when they say that and that those in this business wouldn't want to reap the rewards of all their hard marketing!

Brian- How true. I'm not a Realtor but a Home Stager and I've had more than one caller tell me that I was the first one to answer their call. We are all part of the Twitter world and if you're not available, the caller will go down the list to the next Realtor or Stager.

Oh so very true, I have heard that from customers myself, to many people screen their calls, I always try and answer, if I am with a customer I will let it go to voicemail.

Brian - How very true this is. That is one of the remarks I get from almost all of my clients - that I always answer my phone, even if I'm on another line - on an appointment with other clients - at a closing, ... I send them a text saying I will call them asap. They love that I let them know, and show them, that their calls are important to me. ~ Diana ~

We know the chances of us selling a client is enhanced if we get a direct phone call. I think it is safe to give out a mobile number. Potential clients will feel like they will get priority if you treet them that way from the start.

I know this is an issue for appraisers too! I often get the order just becuase I answered the phone! I use a virtual number to route my 1-800 number to my home, office and cell at once - so hopefully, unless I am actually IN an inspection - I won't miss a call.

When asked why did you pick me? The overwhelming response is "you answered your phone."

That's remarkable! It just seems so basic. I wonder if your post will inspire more agents to answer their phone now?

Yes thats so true, answering the phone or getting back ASAP to leads/prospects is critical in our ultra competitive industry...

Hi Brian -- I couldn't agree more. Whenever I miss a call, I'm usually calling back while they are leaving a message for me (if they do) and they always comment on how quickly I respond.

Hard to believe it's just that simple. In a world of choices, the buyers will just keep trying until they get a live one. Likewise with emails, I try to respond within the hour and definitely within 12.li

So simple and yet so neglected. Just answer your phone!!

nice simple and to the point

Brian- First congrats on the 2 listings ... well done!

I really believe that being acessible and available to yor clients and other agents is the name of the game. We have all heard this complaint for years, and with the technologies that are available to us, there is NO excuse not to be there for people. Allow the degree of seperation in your business to be how quickly you pick up the phone, return phone calls and get back to the people who need information from you. It's simply irresponsible and bad business not to.

That is a great story about your buyer's agent! So true...

I tried to call one agent here for 2 days and her VM box was full.

Finally when I got her, she said she's just been too busy to empty it. I wonder how many leads she missed?

We hear this ALL the time now...it's my guess the ones who aren't answering their phones are the ones who aren't in it FULL time...they are the ones with too many other obligations...all the better for the rest of us!

With all of the time and effort we put into blogging, social media and marketing, it only makes sense to answer the phone. That's often the precise point when it all pays off.

Great post. I try to be available most of the time for my clients. I know of some agents who don't take calls after 6 or 7. However, that is when most of our clients get off from work and need us the most! Some of my most productive calls have come at nine or ten at night. We are in sales and we are dealing with peoples dreams- this is par for the course.

Must be an epidemic - I had exactly the same experience last week. They called me out of the blue, said they were calling 3 agents, asked me a couple of questions on the phone, I tried to work a little tiny bit of magic (and I also told them I didn't think they had really asked me enough to test me...). They called me back the next day and selected me to list their house. When I met them in person I asked how I got on their list of three: INTERNET and why they chose me: I ANSWERED THE PHONE.

This idea you're onto definitely works!

OCT

2009

Rather ironic... I wrote an AR article about the banks and the short sale terrors we are currently experiencing. My first suggestion to them in the long list....

1. ANSWER YOUR PHONE!

A mystical, magical invention commonly overlooked by those whom should open their eyes and $$cherish$$ it.

I'm with Donna, there are too many wackos on the phone for my tastes. Let's not even start with the realllllly dumb questions either. Called an agent back RIGHT AWAY on one of my listings yesterday, 'she had a question'. Hasn't called back yet - why didn't you just do us both a favor and leave your question so I can be productive! I won't answer calls that don't identify themselves either. Stealth phoning? Naaa, not for me.

You must have been very suprised when that client told you that. Thanks for the share.

OCT

2009

I just got a sale to a buyer who called and said they called an agent that was on a sign 2 days ago and left a message. They never heard back from the agent. It pays to answer your phone. I got a sale and only had to show one home.

Brian great post! I'm a new RE agent but familiar with the "sales process"

for the [ast 14-years I've sold pa systems looking to tranisiton into real estate

Although not as competitve as real estate you absolutely have to be accessible

It seems to be a new trend to speak to answering machines, it is a real differentiater to be available and pick up the phone!

You're absolutely right Brian. While volunteering for one of Bend's many sporting events, I received a call while I was out on the run course. Almost didn't answer the phone, but decided the runners weren't due for another 5 minutes... so I answered the phone and received a wonderful Buyer phone call. Gotta love it!

OCT

2009

Very true Brian. In this age of high tech...a little bit of old fashioned phone answering does just wonders for our business.

Brian! Spot on!! With all of the technology that we have today...answering the phone should be the price of admission!! All the best!

With the technology we have available, it should be easy for us to remain accessible. Call forwarding, cell phones, wireless computers, etc. allows us to remain in touch with those seeking our assistance. I recall reading recently, that typically the first person to answer "the call" gets the work.

Great post. My phone is my best friend. I try to answer every call, If not I call back as soon as I hang up on the previous call. The key is COMMUNICATION, COMMUNICATION, COMMUNICATION

I agree with you 100%, If I can pick up my phone I do hands down with out a doubt

OCT

2009

It's all about accessibility and response time. Great post!

OCT

2009

You speak the truth in this blog! Good luck ~ Brad

DEC

2009

This is so easy and some people miss it. I'm not going to say how many times i've called fellow realtors and i goes to voicemail.

JAN

2010

Brian.

Thanks for the great post. Good to know I am doing ONE thing right, I have had people tell me they picked me because I was the only one to answer their call. Your post has brought a few questions to mind. I'm not new to AR but I am just now seeing the value to it that most in my area seem to miss, they create a profile and never do anything with it! My question to you is, what is it that you do that gets you high on Google search and gets these people to call you? Do more of your leads come from AR or your websites? I thought putting blogs in Localism would bring your name to the forefront when folks or searching but it doesn't appear that you use that in Boise.

APR

2010

Still the same thing here. Agents who never return calls and wonder why people are po'd at them. One day they will get it right. Maybe in my career.

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Brian Brumpton, Boise Idaho Real Estate

Boise, ID

More about me…

Keller Williams Boise

Address: 1065 S. Allante Place, Boise, ID, 83709

Office Phone: (208) 407-3265

Cell Phone: (208) 407-3265

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