1,000 Ways To Pick The Right Realtor

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1,000 Ways To Pick The Right Realtor

This will be the first of many public blogs to come. The story will be 1,000 ways to pick the right Realtor. This is pretty simple. Number 1,000 comes with an added bonus, but you'll have to stick around to find out what it is. Here we go.

1. If a Realtor starts out by showing you a picture of themself in any magazine, walk away. Most Realtors will pay top dollar "to have their names in the lights." They love to impress themselves and most importantly, other Realtors. They assume this type of advertising provides them instant credibility with you, the consumer. Ego advertising is for the ego, nothing more.

2. Don't assume an "OLDER" Realtor is one that is wise about selling homes. Most agents I know get into real estate after finishing a career in something entirely different. It's a popular "second" career and even hobby for many folks. Again, just because she's 60 doesn't mean she's more experienced than me.

3. Many new agents and even experienced agents feel it necessary to buy a car they can't afford. Don't assume A LOT when you work with a Realtor. Instead, ask dozens and dozens of questions. If a Realtor drives a 65k BMW, but wears stretchy polyester pants from Sears than you have to wonder if the agent is just pretending to be successful.

4. Do try to annoy your Realtor with questions when your first meet them. You'll figure out their temperament level quickly. Many agents boast about their ability to "provide excellent customer service." For fun, repeat yourself a few times to see if they start getting pissy. I love when prospects DRILL me. I love it because I know other agents won't be as patient.

5. If your Realtor starts the conversation out with.. "I'll reimburse you part of the commission or I'll list your home for almost nothing" then you need to hide from them. Odds are they sleep in that expensive BMW at night. They probably are starving financially and are reduced to trying to BUY their buyers and sellers. You do get what you pay for in this business.

6. If a Realtor agrees with all that you say, find a new one. Your shadow is more competent than a yes man.

7. Don't assume a Broker has more negotiating skills than a Salesperson. A salesperson is a regular Realtor without a Brokers license. Brokers usually market the office, recruit new agents and are very busy doing "other things" besides selling real estate. This isn't to suggest that all Brokers are out of touch when it comes to working with buyers and sellers on a day to day basis.

8. Don't pick the Realtor your boss suggests, especially if it's his spouse. If "that" Realtor sucks, you're going to really be in a jam. Instead, say thank you, but no thank you. Your boss will respect your candor, not look down on you for choosing elsewhere. If you're working with a relocation department then it may be a different story.

9. Many agents have a website. Ask for it. The website can say an awful lot about that individual.

See you next week.

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Posted by Greg Nino Houston Texas on 01/13/2010 12:25 AM

Comments (209)

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209 Comments on 1,000 Ways To Pick The Right Realtor

JAN

2010

Good stuff. Blog more of the 1000 reasons I can hardly wait.

Great stuff. I just got someone willing to do business with me because my picture is not on my card. I was more interested in them and focused on their needs not my resume. We covered that too, but they appreciated my concern for their needs.

I'd add: Run don't walk from any one who says more than "we don't do business like that" about their competition! Never, never, never, never work with any one who speaks ill of his own people!

Bill

Interesting read. A compendium of these 1,000 will make a powerful statement.

I subscribed and I'll try to catch them.

I like it, especially number 4 about asking questions over and over.

Greg,

Only 1000 ways to pick your Realtor? Thats like the Cliff Notes version.

Rich

Paul Simon rework on new song "Must be 50 ways to lose my broker....) That's another post right? Easy on the discount of an older real estate broker. Some professional that has gone thru many real estate cycles, knows situations from first hand experience...give me that trail savvy individual any time. He has read the book, seen the movie and has a wealth of knowledge to help real estate buyers and sellers. If he sells hundreds of properties year in and year out, has a solid reputation of getting the job done without drama..pick that guy. Would you want a root canal from a fresh out of dental school first timer or the guy who has climbed into many other mouth situations just like yours? Listing, marketing, selling real estate is no less important. The term is "practicing" real estate...and the industry like all industries is ever changing, evolving and like a sport you are passionate about, that does not feel like work. And what's wrong with my Yugo? What you drive and how it matches the market key. A big shiny top of the line BMW in rural American may send the signal this guy/gal is making way way too much off each sale..and not off me, picking another guy with a pickup that has three different color panels but is paid for.

Greg....nice idea for a post. I like most of your points but you may be a little harsh on some of them. Number 9 is a good point!

Thanks for the advice, good tips to know

Hi Greg...love the list so far, keep them coming. I'm sure your fellow Rainers will add some for you, too.

Great post, number 9 is important.

Greg,

Off to an excellent start with some great tips! #5 is my favorite so far, given NJ is enacting a law permitting rebates.

Greg, interesting post, looking forwad to the next 991 reasons.

So far, so good...looking forward to the next installment. Hope I won't need stitches when you're done...at the moment, you're managed to keep it both light and serious at the same time. That's a rare art.

This is great - Each one could be a blog on its own!

Great things to keep in mind to help us become the realtor of choice!

#10 - Your Realtor isn't a full-time Realtor

While I'm new to the business (#2 could be me) it's amazing to me how many other Realtors I met who have other jobs or don't devote themselves full-time to this. I've met -

The Realtor who is also a full-time pilot for Northwest/Delta
The Realtor who likes to take the summer off for 3 months to her cabin and wants an $80k salary while doing 15 listing presentations a year
The Realtor who always liked houses so got her license while still maintaing her role as a hair stylist
The Realtor who is a full-time police officer

Want to reach your Realtor to make an offer on a house? It would kinda stink if they can't call you back because they are 35,000 feet in the air, at the cabin, busy doing a perm or making an arrest.

I don't have a 65k BMW, but I love those stretchy polyester pants from Sears. LOL Number five tells it all. Good post looking forward to the others.

Greg, I put more effort into choosing a wireless mouse for my new netbook yesterday than most people put into choosing their agent. Whenever I speak with an expired listing I wonder what they were thinking. Answer: they weren't.

Excellent points. I wish everyone that is buying or selling a home will read this one.

Greg, Congrats on the feature there buddy!!! Cool post!!! Now about that $65K Beemer...

I've had buyers get upset when I didn't agree with everything they've said. I explain that I'm there to be their unbiased third party opinion so they don't look at things through rose-colored glasses. They usually respect my opinions after that.

I've still had buyers buy houses that I completely disagreed with, but they're living there, not me.

Aright Greg...you had me at #1 but I'll follow to the end. :) Right on right on right on!

#7...remember that there are many solo or very small Brokers who do NOT recruit, DO work the trenches-- and their additional education and required knowledge of laws and statutes does distinguish them from a licensee.

Great first set of reasons. I will have to watch for the rest of the story.

It's confusing for consumers. The barrier of entry in this business is so low that it attracts the "hobby" agents and how can a consumer tell us apart?

For 5. Agents who low ball their commission are not good business people. If they did a proper business plan, they would know that cutting 1% is cutting out 30%+ of their gross income, which is their profit. In this market, cutting that out means they are going to end up sleeping in their car.

For 8. I agree. My husband hires relocating people under him regularly. He never suggests that they work with me. I would refer them to a colleague if they ever called me up. He and I would never want to put anyone in that position. Even if I were the most competent, all agents are not for every buyer. It's cheesy for an employer to refer such business to their spouse.

I like all of your reasons thus far. Since I'm one of the under 30 realtors here on Activerain I thnk #2 is very true. I meet agents all the time twice my age that have less experience than I do! But then again I've met alot of agents older than me far experienced. But, from a consumers stand point, DON'T ASSUME!

Great post, as an "older" realtor I still have to agree with #2. I fear the words, "Honey I been in this business for x number of years and i always do it this way"...

RUN!

Greg,

Great post! I think if we put our minds to it we could come up with alot more than 1000.

Greg - I look forward to this long series - almost two years of posts at one a week.

Come on Greg, I was thinking about going out and getting me Hummer, big vehicle, so I can have it wrapped with my b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l face all over it. It will also show my age too!!

Thanks for getting this post out to us on AR today.

Patricia/Seacoast/NH

Great post, Greg. I can't wait to see the rest. I've also subscribed.

I may be an older Realtor with 20 years experience, but if that is 20 years with no change, what benefit is that to a client. I also had a listing appointment for a divorced couple last night and they wanted be to reduce my commission and I would get them as buyers. I explained to them that as a short sale expert, if I saved them $100K collectively making the right purchases, that figure is greater than the $6,000 savings on commission.

Greg: I like this. This is good, straightforward advice. I'm tempted to blog about ways to pick a mortgage lender. Don't worry. I won't steal your thunder! Have a great day!

LOVE THIS POST!!!!! Great points - and great advice! I hope consumers read this and take it to heart!

Do I really need a 1000. Boy that is going to be a really long appointment.

Ask three real estate agents to indicate at what price they would list your property. Engage the agent who gives you the middle one; that avoids the one on the low end who may want only to make a quick sale, and the one on the top who is feeding your (the seller's) natural inclination that your home is worth more than its market value. And follow the rest of Greg's other 9 points...

I love your list Greg. They are all excellent reasons why consumers should do a lot of home work when choosing an agent.

Hi Greg. Good post. I look forward to reading your others. I do suggest however that you use REALTOR® instead of Realtor. We should all know better. Cheers, D

Good stuff, all TRUE ! Cant wait for the rest of the list !

Greg,

I love these "reminders"!! I can't wait to see what 1,000 is!!!

What a great post and tease. You have me wanting/guessing for more. Can't wait!

Great post! I look forward to seeing this list all the way through.

Nicely done....I subscribed.

You're on to something! Good idea and written with .... um GUTS, that's the word. Good job. Keep 'em coming.

Hi Greg! I am sixty+ and on my third career with real estate; I do have my pic on my second set of biz cards; I drive a Camry and I think I am pretty humble. Hopefully, my sincerity shines through to potential clients. I do get your points and look foward to 999 more posts from you.

Love your post!!

Haha. #1 If an agent shows you a picture of themselves in a magazine, it could mean they have no properties listed to show you.

Good stuff.

I am defintely looking forward to the next installment - great list!

The cold hard truth is that 70% of Realtors and Loan Officers should not be in the business!

70% Do Not treat it like a profession. They treat it more like a part- time job. or worse.

They do more harm to people and the Profession than good!

The trick is to find the 30% that are actually Professionals!

G'day Mates!

Greg - I love #4 and personally don't see why any of us wouldn't. The more questions a prospect/client asks the more opportunities we have to shine and illustrate our knowledge and experience. Who don't like doing that.

Reminds me of an agent around here who used to tell one of my clients who was working with her, that he only got to ask three questions a day. SERIOUSLY!!! Guess that was the extent of her knowledge.

agree with everything so far. Can't wait for the rest.

Greg, this is quite a commitment! Can't wait to see the bonus!

Great! Can't wait for more!

Great points! I look forward to reading more!

I'm a fan of number 6. We are there to guide, counsel, negotiate and work hard, not just to nod our head!

I'm with Bill #17. Clients need to find an agent that works THEIR hours. It can be very frustrating to want to see a home if the agent is not available because she is working a second job or has to take care of the kids that day.

As for number 7 - I think you have a bad perception of what a broker is. I don't know too many brokers or sales managers that have not "earned their stripes". Most can bail their agents out of a bind, and I would put money on the fact that your broker is probably a better negotiator than you are. Don't discredit the broker. Now, on the other hand, if a broker is competing with his agents, then something is wrong with the office. The broker should be serving as a mentor, trainer, recruiter and leader. Every once in a while if the broker is servicing his own sphere of influence, it may be ok. But if your broker is out of the office more than you are - he's likely to be the one living in the back seat of his BMW which is probably about to be repossessed!

Great post. I'll look out for your listings when I'm showing homes on the West side!

Your points are well taken - I bascially agree with all 9 and I think most competent Realtors will.

As for convincing consumers that you should be their Realtor of choice, my gut feeling is that you might accomplish your goal better by focusing on the things that make someone a great Realtor as opposed to the things that make someone not so good.

As William, in comment #3 said, "

Never, never, never, never work with any one who speaks ill of his own people!"

In reality your post is doing exactly that.

I think the concept of your list is a good one but were I a consumer, I might be put off by the fact that your method of selling yourself consists of putting others down.

Option 1. Here's what I do really well, choose me!
Option 2. Here's what my competitors do really poorly, run away from them!

Which sounds better?

Great Post! I loved #1 as I never understood the over use of pictures. Especially those taken w/ their dog, cat, llama whatever. Thanks for the information.

This is a great list! I am excited to see the rest. I will be there for #1000!

I couldn't agree with number one any more, Greg. I've always been beyond astonished how self-absorbed MANY agents are. My first year as an agent, I did more than 50 transactions, and when more experienced agents asked what my "secret" was, I simply conveyed to them that these transactions are not about me. My picture is nowhere on billboards, not on my business card, and not even on my website. At the end of the day, I believe that "branding" is about the service you offer and not about plastering your mug all over any available surface!

John E. White

RealEstate.com Realtors

Well said. Sometimes flash and big promises is just a big problem.

Greg,

Interesting post. I agree with each one. In North Carolina, the Real Estate Commission here has every agent in the state to become Brokers, not Salespersons. The idea was to have everyone take all the same courses, require all the updates to be the same, etc. etc. etc... I'm curious as to how many other states are doing this. May be a blog post there...

Thanks for those points to ponder...

Nice job ! I agree with most points!!

Great start to a long journey, I wish you the best luck on your way to 1000.

Thanks for the post today. I agree with most but not all of the points but not all of them.

Patricia /Seacoast NH/ME

Well, I hope folks appreciate my (nicely appointed) 2001 GMC Jimmy. It is comfortable, attractive, and most importantly, PAID FOR!

Concerning #2: Too many times I have had to hold the hand of a 'more experienced' agent throughout the entire transaction. Sure I'm a quick study and know more than most with 3 years of experience, but there is no reason that anyone can't learn the ropes in 5+ years.

Great post. I hope we can do business together sometime.

I've had plenty of blogs that brought in interest, but none like this. Barely 12 hours later and I've had almost 1,200 clicks. That's awesome! I am hoping consumers are reading this!

Thank you ALL for you contribution, support and insight. Educating the public is our responsibility. Thanks a bunch!!

Greg, I'll check back on the rest of your series the first nine are right on target, Never hire the bosses wife...I love that one.

Great post Greg! It made me laugh! What would you say about working with a part-time agent?

Greg, what a great list thus far. I especially love the "I'll reimburse you part of the commission" as if to say that what we do as Realtors really has very little value. Fighting public misconceptions often driven as a result of lack-luster Realtors in this business is certainly part of the daily fight for survival. Keep up the good work and keep the list coming!

Can't wait to see the next list.

Look slike you got a lot of followers with this one! Interesting read - good luck trying to find 1000 different reasons - don't they all cross each other at some point?

Great list definately will follow

Bridget - no. I can think of 10,000 reasons. subscribe to this blog and see! ;)

Thanks for posting the list! I have a couple of very new buyers and I've been put through the paces. Hopefully, I think I'm in the game!

Love it! Can't wait to read more!

Well Put!

Hey Greg, A THOUSAND!! WOW -- this is going to be interesting! It's not to late to edit the blog to read 100 ;-)

I love all the comments. Can't wait for the rest The car one is so true. They drive the overpriced car and show up in their sweats and sandles YUK. I always wonder what that buyer was thinking at the time. Hey great car or oooooh what's with the sweats...

Greg,

Interesting post. A couple of comments. One thing a Realtor cannot purchase at any price is experience, whether it's real estate experience or life experience. Frankly, I'd pick a Realtor who was 50 but only in the business for a year over one who was 30 with 5 years experience. Why? Because I was 30 once upon a time, completely bulletproof, incapable of making a mistake (in my opinion) and not armed with the life experiences I have now that I'm in my 50's. These life experiences, coupled with the knowledge I have attained watching my friends and family age and experience the fullness of life, profoundly influence the way I do business today. Without those experiences I would be less capable of helping clients.

Now, that being said, when I was 30 I had a completely different set of tools to bring to the table. I was eager, completely driven, willing to do whatever it took, energetic, enthusiastic and so on, all great attributes I could use to benefit my clients and myself. So, 30-year olds, I'm behind you all the way, go for it, but if you want to lock horns on the commercial field of battle, bring your A game.

Your broker oversees every deal that runs through his/her office. By virtue of that reality alone he/she is more experienced than you. You get to see your deals only. Over the years I've overseen, held together, counseled on and managed thousands of transactions some mine, most belonging to the agents and broker associates who worked under my license. You have a great year and sell $10 million in property. I manage an office and oversee $100 million a year in transactions. Who's more experienced? Do the math.

Love the post, keep it coming.

As Doug P. from NC stated above, I also wanted to comment on #7

I know you are referring to Brokers as usually being Owners or Managers but,

in NC, all salespersons must obtain the Broker designation within a short period of time with experience and education/examination requirements or their license terminates. They cannot remain salespersons.

I don't want to get technical because this is a fun post, but I also don't want to leave the impression to consumers in NC that "Brokers" (like me) are distracted or involved with things other than selling and helping clients!

Keep it coming...it should be fun to see it get to 1000.

Greg, this is thought-provoking list - - That's an excellent recommendation for folks in #4 - really! I thoroughly enjoy your writing style, as well, but you've stepped on a few of my toes here with a couple of your items - - Please keep in mind that the right REALTOR for one person might not be the right REALTOR for another person! Clearly, you feel you are the right REALTOR for your audience - but REALTORS do come in all shapes, sizes, styles, educational levels, ages, backgrounds, etc., and LOTS OF US DO A REALLY GOOD JOB!

Great post! Can't wait to see more.......

Your list should be prequired reading for new Realtors so they know what NOT to do.

Good Job.

Your list should be prequired reading for new Realtors so they know what NOT to do.

Good Job.

Nice post Greg! So if you do one post a week, that'll be 2 years. I like a Realtor with a long-term strategy! Looking forward to see the other 9991 tips!

This blog isn't going to make all Realtors happy and fulfilled, and that's expected. I suspect consumers will notice the naysers more than anything else. Don't be offended. Embrace & respect opinion, especially when you haven't authored the post. Thanks for sharing everyone.

Greg,

I disagree with your comment #9:

I've seen many fancy websites for agents that couldn't sell a home to save their lives. Just because an agent BUYS a website with the same credit card they used to put the deposit down on the BMW - shouldn't impress anybody. I would ask, "How many homes have you sold in the last 12 months?" - That will tell you if they are in the game full time or not...

Great Blog! can't wait to read the rest!

Greg,

Interesting post...great responses. Looking forward to reading more.

Hi Greg:

Great converstaion starter and way to get the juice! I suggest you tone down some of your personal opinions and conclusions about realtor clothing choices and automoblies. You may be negotiating a deal with a realtor wearing those stretchy polyester pants someday and you never know what your clients may be wearing or driving....until you meet them face to face.

Really clever blog, enjoyed it and look forward to more. I pretty much agree with you for the most part.

I loved your post until I got to number 8 because my husband is the operations manager of a large paper mill and I have sold homes to some of his associates. He is not pushy at all and just gives them my card saying that if they have any questions they can contact me, but will in no way be obligated. I am a good REALTOR and really work hard for my clients because I love people so that blanket condemnation of spouses is really not fair. Real estate is largely about networking and who better to network for us than our spouse who hopefully knows us better than anyone.

Nice!

Anyone that would disagree would probably have thin skin because they are recognizing themselves in the words you have written. Keep it up!

Jon

Kristen - Your missing much of the point here. Do you wear stretchy pants and feel insecure about wearing stretchy pants? My mom used to wear those. Nothing wrong with them. I don't care what the other Realtor is wearing, just like they don't care what I'm wearing. Realtors don't pass up listings because of stretchy pants or non stretchy pants. They do however warn their buyers about hostile situations they have had with certain Realtors. Thanks for the input, but I'll blog anyway I like. I have hundreds of blog followers and have received over 21,000 comments since I've been here, mostly supportive of my style. Once you get to know me, instead of judging my style, you'll appreciate the message a little better. I would hope.

Jeff - You can't disagree with #9. That's impossible. You're saying that a website can't say a lot about a person? You just generalized how it could. That doesn't make sense. A BIO on the website can, does and will tell a lot about that person. I wasn't speaking to the FLASH and beauty of it. Thank you for the comment!

Far as I'm concerned only 6 things you should look for in an agent when selling.

1.Experience-I mean how many homes they sold recently - the avg. in toronto is 4 homes/yr

2.Exposure - where the home is advertised so it stands out/doesn't to get a higher/lower price

3. Results - How many (similar) homes they've sold.

4. Avg. Days on market - do you want an agent who sells in 30 or 130 daysd

5. % of listings sold - do you want someone who sells 25 % or 95 % of their homes

6. % sold for - do you want an agent who sells at 98 % on avg. or 80 %

for dealing with buyers it's all about education.

dave baum

remax hallmark

toronto, ontario

dave@thebaumteam.com

Johathan - Agreed!!

Sybil - if you were my bosses wife, I wouldn't use you. Don't take that as me being rude, but honest. Not because of anything about you personally. 90% of the readers will agree with me on this. If you suck, drop the ball or piss me off I can't fire you without worrying what my boss will think. After all, your his wife. This is common sense, not debatable and very practical thinking. I'm sorry if you disagree. But that's the way the masses would see it. sorry.

Thanks for adding Dave! Best of sellling in 2010!

Great blog Greg. But I should mention some of us OLDER realtors had sucessful sales careers before embarking on second sales careers. And those prior careers involved hundreds if not thousands of negotiations. Pleae don't sell us OLDER dogs too short.

BTW I don't drive a Beemer. My old Volvo (one of three) gets me around just fine.

Jack,

This isn't an attack on the elderly, people who wear stretchy recreational pants, bmw drivers or folks who use Viagra.

The post is designed to send a message to the public. They aren't stupid or unable to see the forest for the trees as they say. Don't worry, my blogs are very thought provoking, but not mind washing.

Thanks for the comment.

Fun list.

As with anything, I am sure not everyone will agree with all. There can be a counterpoint to each item.

But I think the bigger point here is that people need to give hiring a real estate professional some serious thought. Your list so far, says that well. 1000 reasons should give people some ideas of what to think about.

I look forward to seeing more.

Great topic! I can't imagine 1,000 reasons. You've set the bar. Making sure your Realtor is a full-time agent will probably pop on on your list. In my opinion, it should.

Wendy - exactly!! You could argue every letter of this blog. But that's not my point. Hearing the good, the bad and the ugly is what consumers want.

Good point about asking if they are a part time Realtor. There are many part timers out there and I am not saying that is wrong but they client should be aware of that as it will be important to them to work with someone who is on top of the market.

Love it, Greg, and I'll be waiting for the next batch!

Caution- It is not possible to make yourself better by running the competition down, of course that is my opinion only. What are the good things to look for?

I really like the "ask a lot of Questions" idea- that will help to build a good relationship, is very good advice.

Thank you

Mike - many of my friends are older than you. I'm not running down the competition. I don't need to do that to be succesful.

Thanks for posting. I have subscribed and am awaiting future additions to the list. Good arguments for each point, whether or not some may agree. I am off to wash and wax my 1999 automobile and review my websites.

Greg,

Great stuff. I can hardly wait for the other 991. That's quite a commitment on your part!

lol @ Mike

Greg~ Ok....#1, 3 and 6 - so funny. #4 excellent point #5 love it. I already subscribe, so I will be waiting on baited breath!

LOL @Shirley Parks #64 !

I guess I shouldnt drive them past my Highway Billboard then huh !?!?!?!??!

Sheldon- yeah... I just read that. lol.

Being a 'Professional' on the outside and the inside is what the public is looking for. Be yourself, honest, dependable, trustworthy, and all of the other mottos I learned in Boy Scouts. Look in the mirror and honestly ask yourself, would I hire you? Good Post Greg!

Reason #99: because your long-lost cousin has a girl-friend who is a part-time real estate agent.

I love, LOVE, LOOOOOVE, #3. Why is your car supposed to represent how "incredible" you are as a real estate agent?

Chanda panda

Jeepers-Creepers, about time someone got around to writing this series of posts. The topic is on my radar, but community news and lucious listings have taken priority in my world.

Please don't hate me for what I am about to do... nit-pick your title for your post(s). I already hate myself enough for doing so.

On the other hand, I spent 5 years on the speakers circuit as a guest speaker for various industry coaching companies, speaking on topics such as "Power Words", "Headlines That Compel Consumer Action INSTANTLY", "It IS What You Say, And It IS How You Say It", and "The Headline Is 85% Of The Power Of Your Message".

"...The Right Realtor.", lacks power, and grammar freaks may be turned off.

What if you kept the same headline, and TEST replacing "Right" with one of these:, "Best", "Best Realtor FOR YOU!!!"; "Best Realtor In Your Town"?

Notice that I capitalized the word "TEST" in the sentence above?

That's because every top marketer will TEST and MEASURE the number of responses to each ad, and MEASURE the conversion rate from suspect to prospect, prospect to appointment, appointment to client, and client to sale.

Did you know that TV Guide's weekly editions are printed with 2-3 different covers? Editions with one cover are sent to a selected region of the US, the others are sent to their respective portions of the country. The publishers are testing various headlines to see which headlines pull the most sales.

Cosmopolitan Magazine (Cosmo) does something similar. Cosmo features the same cover photo of some hot looking babe on ALL editions, all across the nation, but some of the headlines surrounding the babe on the cover vary by region? Why? So Cosmo may TEST and MEASURE which headlines pull more sales in stores.

I sincerely believe that my two pals who make big-bucks as marketing consultants are the only two MEN in the nation with a subscription to Cosmo. Why? Cosmo headlines on the cover, and inside the magazine are among the best anywhere.

Finally, the infamous tabloid, The National Inquirer pays salaries to their reporters $50K - $85K per year, and their reporters just write the stories... they do not write the headlines. The Inquirer has super-gifted headline writers who ONLY write headlines... Headlines SELL the tabloid.... Headlines are the big money-maker.... so a gifted headline writer at the Inquirer is paid $125K - $175K.

In closing, test power words, measure your response rates.

Were you to hire me to be your marketing guru, and you were to ask me how I might edit your headline, I might suggest the following examples:

Find Out How You Can Get The Most Money For Your Home, In The Least Time, And Fewest Hassles
Sell Your Home For Top-Dollar Right Now With Inside Secrets Most Realtors Never Tell You
Sell Your Home Fast, For Top-Dollar, By Choosing A Realtor Who Knows The Answers To 20 Questions

Please pardon me for sticking my nose into your work.

Jeff,

I'd so hire me. I'm super good looking, smart, tall, fast on my feet, can still catch 40 yard passes and I can slam dunk a basketball over my 3 year old son on an 8 foot goal. Did I mention I can cook? LoL. Thanks for the comment sir!

Very good and timely list! I hope, our clients aren't that patient to read about all 1000 reasons and understand whom they are dealing with on #15 or #17 LOL. Looking forward to reading more.

Greg, Good list. Did you ever get to 1000?

Greg, great points. I look forward to reading more.

Erick,

You seem like a nice guy. But just what the hell are you talking about? LOL. Are you suggesting that my "blog title" could be more effective? Maybe it could be... Maybe it couldn't The only way to tell is to guess at this point. I did like your comment. I didn't know any of that about Cosmo and TV Guide. Very interesting. Are you advertising your fanny on my blog? That's not cool or allowed by Active Rain, did you know that? Lets just forget about that and talk more about your subscription to COSMO. Did you learn any manscaping techniques? My wife bought me some manscaping products for Christmas. I used "wash" on my face and exfoilated (sp) on myself. That stuff is awesome. No wonder why women are so much more well maintained than us.

Thanks for the comment. And no, I won't hire you. I like being me. Take care.

C'mon Jill! I just started! Sigh...

Greg I couldn't agree more, each and every one of those items is right on the money, i especially like the one about sleeping in the BMW so true....

Very good point, and I am sure many more to follow. Many REALTORS can use this advice, including myself. Even though I do not own a BMW, but a Saturn from a now "defunct" Saturn Corp. lol. I always thought that the whole "face" bill board or high priced ad's were a bit of over kill, but I do believe that some type of "accurate" advertising is needed in this competitive field. As a previous post stated that here in NJ, they are discussing to allow REALTORS to share their commissions with buyers/sellers, I think you will see a lot of this in NJ, just like in some of the Southern states competing for sales.

Greg,

#9 is part of my new year resolutions!

Greg,

Excellent post! I love when they ask all sorts of questions--this is about educating them not just on buying (or selling) a home, but on how to take care of the home after you buy, and what you need to do after you sell it. Even repeat buyers, because they are new to the area, have many questions.

Can't wait to see the rest of your 1000 list!

Crap...so you're saying I should not get that 7 series.

good post,, you got some work cut out for you 1000????

Greg, I love the way your mind works, great post. I look forward to reading future posts.

Thank you Amy!! I look forward to bloggin 99 more times about this!

Greater Mortgage Solutions - Yes I do, but it will be a blast doing so.

Jaime - lol, no way! You go buy that beemer man. Make sure you wear your recreational stretchy pants! lol!

Greg, great post - I look forward to the rest.

great post... I agree with all of it, which is rare for me... I look forward to your next post...

Greg...

I certainly do like #8 ... It's amazing how often this comes up... and the boss's spouse is a part timer 90% of the time.

Hopefully... the following will be included in your 1,000 ways:

If a Real Estate Agent tells you it's always a Great time to buy Real Estate...Run..

If a Real Estate agent tells you that buying Real Estate is Always A Great Investment but can't calculate a simple Cash on Cash return.... RUN.

If a Real Estate agent tells you that Appreciation Rates are 10%+ every year ... RUN.

These are good ways to separate the Realtors from real estate salespeople. I give my clients many tips like this to ensure that they find the right person to work with....................chris

Hey Greg! Looks like most of us Realtors or Brokers as I am like this post. Hopefully the public will listen and give you a test drive! I'm sure they won't be disappointed!

April in Wisconsin

I responded negatively to most of your points, and did not read the comments or others - as I just don't have time. You hit some buttons, or I just wouldn't take the time to respond.

I have photos of myself all over the place so that past present and future clients will recognize me and know that I am still in the business - 22 years of this. And, yes, experience speaks volumes. And, I am 57. My previoujs careers as a teacher and legal researcher were the perfect combo to give me business/people skills for real estate sales.

I drive a nice 530i, own a small house (actually several small ones, being a fan of Rich Dad, Poor Dad philosophy), am a Broker, but hang my license with Prudential CA Realty so am not busy running anything except my own business, and do not cut my commissions.

I tell my sellers who ask about value, "You can hate me know, or you can hate me in 6 months when your property has not sold." Being honest is the best approach.

Kathleen Barnato Prudential CA Realty

Serving the South Coast of Santa Barbara county

Hope Ranch, Montecito, Santa Barbara, Beachfront

Like this, what you come up with in the next 990 should be very interesting. At 6'5" I don't even fit in most Beemers so I guess I'll keep my 4 year year old Ford crew cab pickup, but I'm going to miss my polyester slacks....:( . The pic to the left is the only self promotion I have, if they choose based on looks alone I'm in trouble!

Ok your list has gotten many comments. I agree with some of the list. However seem like you have have gone a bit overboard with some of the list. i will keep reading to see how it goes from here out.

Lol Steven.... I'm 6'4", I understand! lol.

Kathleen - Very impressive, but lighten up! ;) I'm not here to fight with you. I'm glad you have hit homeruns in your business. Really. If you seek to be offended in life, you will be. This is my post, my opinion and my soap box. If you don't like what you read, then simply don't read, click, or comment. Fair enough?

Sharon - Glad you enjoyed the post. Wait til you see the next 900.

Greg!

I love this post! I can't wait to read the rest but let me just say you are spot on!! :-)

Wendy

Bout time you got into the public angle...you do good Greg...and I'm glad you're bringing some info to the consumer....valid info for consumption. :)

Greg, I never thought of putting #4 to good use! Great idea. I love it when they ask questions, but so many are afraid they will look uninformed, or worse yet someone to take advantage of. I think I will ask more often --- Now do you have any questions?

Here are a couple reasons folks did not like their prior realtors.

1. Didn't show them houses with their requirements.

2. Ignored their phone calls.

Luckily, I was doing the 2 activities above before they mentioned them.

Thanks, looking forward to the next installment

Great post! #2 is very true.

Well # 2 and # 5 hit the highlight reel for me this week. Good stuff Greg, look forward to reading the rest of this.

Once this list is done I might have compile the top 10 or 20 and re post it, giving you credit of course. Looking forward to it.

Cheers!

I bit on your headline. I was compelled to click to see if there were 1,000 items listed. Great strategy. Keep going. :-)

non constructive comments and those that are by design to "argue & fight" will be deleted. It's a privilege to be a part of my post, regardless of how you feel. It isn't your "right." I would treat other authors with the same respect.

Thanks, Greg. I enjoyed the post, especially #3. I think about this all the time when I drive up in my (paid for) Ford Freestyle. Just can't imagine arriving in a car that costs more than the actual house my average customer is trying to buy. Seems like bad form.

Don't know if I agree with number 1 entirely, maybe if they grab it before they even introduce themselves, but most of my clients want to see their agent separated from the rest through advertising and services. Big ad equals big leads, usually. Anyway, thanks for posting and I look forward to next week!

Wow good blog Greg, 1000 ways that is a big nubmer. Good luck, I look forward to your updates.

All interesting points, not real sure that they all have relevance with a Realtor's qualifications - at least they wouldn't be my top 9 qualifiers. We'll see what you do next week.

Greg,

Very good stuff. Love the one about not assuming because they're old that they are experienced. I struggled with that when I was fresh out of the gate many years ago. I was a kid and couldn't hide the fact that I was new. Indeed true. Not that I don't respect my elders, but some of them are really just not that good.

Great post Greg. I'm going to subscribe to see the rest!

Jeana - i respect my elders as well. I just refuse to assume that 60 year old is "better" at me in Real Estate simply because of his or her life experiences. That's an absurd belief in my opinion. I'd rather work with the guy or gal who had worked hundreds of real estate transaction versus the gentlemen who just spent 35 years at say Microsoft. It's just silly. Apples and oranges.

This was so interesting. "A whole nother spin on it". I'll stick around and subcribe.

Pray tell what exactly is wrong with checkered tight polester pants, and shirt to match of course.

Hi Greg,

Love #3 - trying to imagine this one! Great post

5. If your Realtor starts the conversation out with.. "I'll reimburse you part of the commission or I'll list your home for almost nothing" then you need to hide from them. Odds are they sleep in that expensive BMW at night. They probably are starving financially and are reduced to trying to BUY their buyers and sellers. You do get what you pay for in this business."

After editing what I was going to say, here's the long and the short of it.

"You do get what you pay for in this business."

So if I decide to arbitrarily charge 10% to list homes, does that mean that I'm automatically a better agent than you are, simply because I'm charging more? I hardly think so.

The opposite is also true. Simply because you decide to follow the status quo and charge traditional rates does not make you a better agent than someone who has an alternative business model and elects to give back to his or her clients.

Ok, so Agent A spends $1000/month on his website, $1200/month on his desk fee, $800/month car payment, and $1600/month mortgage payment, and charges rates in line with the status quo.

Agent B paid off his house, paid off his car, works from home, and built his own website, and charges lower rates.

Why would Agent B do that? Why wouldn't he charge rates on par with everyone else? Why should he? If he can be happy on a reduced commission income level, why not? Maybe he gets job satisfaction from both helping his clients AND giving back to them, and if his overhead is significantly lower than Agent A, he could spend MORE on marketing and STILL take home more than Agent A.

One more thing:

"I just refuse to assume that 60 year old is "better" at me in Real Estate simply because of his or her life experiences. That's an absurd belief in my opinion."

And I refuse to assume that an agent who charges "full price" or higher is "better" than me in Real Estate simply because they charge more.

When it comes to commissions, a clients best tactic is to dig deep. Ask why they feel it should cost that much. Where does the money go?

$50 sign

$100 keybox

$20 flyers

and the rest goes where? Most of our marketing these days is online and free.

Should the sellers care if you have to pay your broker upwards of a thousand dollars a month? Should they care if you have a mortgage or car payment? None of those things help sell their house.

We, as agents, use scripts all the time on our clients when we try to get them to come down on their price because we feel they're overpriced. The clients should be using similar scripts on us as well. They can't, because they have few options right now. Sooner or later though, things will be changing.

Greg,

I think I know the guy who sleeps in his BMW! Great thoughts and should make a good topic for a book when you have them all done!

As the boss's wife of course there is no communication to my hubby about ANYTHING said between me and and clients I get that work with him. He works for the largest employer in the area, and his friends are all professional people. His job allows me to run my business without having to worry about buying health insurance. (I sense a blog coming on)

I pride myself as the agent with the thick skin and the shut mouth. Since they work for a defense conractor they can't communicate anything they do to anyone, and I am the same way.

Anyone that tells their loved ones they way a deal is going is a very small person.

That said, I am looking forward to the rest of the blog. Me in my dirty scratched up kidified SUV.

This is going to be an interesting read Greg - it's going to go on and on and on - hmmmmm - I'm looking forward to reading your ideas.

Nick,

You said: Where does the money go? $50 sign $100 keybox $20 flyers and the rest goes where? Most of our marketing these days is online and free.

You sound pretty serious, so I won't ask "if you're kidding." In all it costs me about $55,000 per year to run my business. You mentioned 3 things out of say 25 that cost me to run my shop. Everything from licensing fees to business cards. Maybe you only spend $170.00 per year. I suspect our income is relative to our investment in our business. Dunno.

I won't get in a commission debate with you because it can be perceived to be illegal by our peers and most importantly the long arm of the law. So please just drop that subject all together.

It cost you more than $170 to run your business. Your exaggerating (under) to make a point and you aren't. Do you not use business cards? Do you pay for education, licensing renewal, supra key usage, advertising? Do you consider your time FREE? If so, than you need to change your outlook as a business professional in my opinion. Your time is money. It's worth SOMETHING. What about your tax deductions? Do you just right off $170.00 at the end of the year? Of course not. Don't make silly assertions to make your point.

You did make a good point, but you lost me with the whole real estate is cheap assertion. Get real man. That's just silly.

And I stand by my 60 year old comment.

If Joe spent 30 years as a welder or a banker or even a lawyer so be it. I don't care. If I want a GOOD Realtor, then I want somebody with REAL -> Real Estate Experience! You're confusing real estate experience with "respect your elders." my 60 year old view point has NOTHING to do with UNDER RESPECTING anyone older than me. I'm not speaking about your grandpa or your grandma. Okay? Relax.

Greg, of course I have other costs - cards, stamps, licensure, continuing ed, etc. I assume you understand that the $170 figure was an example of what might be spent on a single listing, not on what I put into my business. The keybox fee is a one-time thing, once purchased, it's not a cost anymore. If the weather cooperates then I can re-use my sign, so instead of $170 the next listing might cost only $70 ($50 for the local sign post company to put my sign up, and $20 for flyers).

At any rate, I was talking about what it costs to actually sell a home, not all of the extra costs we incur. When we have sellers who "have to get" $X for their home, and it's above market value, we tell them things like "It doesn't matter to the buyer what you want, what you need, or what you owe, they only care about . . ."

Sellers shouldn't care what we spend on rent, mortgages, car loans, business cards, stationary, billboards, websites, etc. They should be asking what we're going to do to get their home sold. Your point #5 is basically stating that anyone who doesn't charge as much as you do is inferior, simply because they don't charge as much.

If the reason that they don't charge as much is because they don't do any continuing ed, don't have a license, or don't have any sort of marketing plan that is congruent with what it takes to get homes sold in their local market, then I agree, run.

But if they don't charge as much simply because they don't feel that it's ethical to charge boom-time prices in a recession, and that their home sales marketing has not changed at all, then there is no need to run.

It's about as silly as saying that if they don't drive a Cadillac, run, because successful home sellers only drive Cadillacs.

Actually, it's worse, because you're putting fear into the consumer based upon an industry fear of declining profit margins rather than any sort of logical reason.

Great list so far... I just subscribed to your blog so I won't miss the rest!

As for age and experience - I have met many Realtors who were older, but knew NOTHING about real estate.

I recall one woman who had been "selling real estate" for about 20 years looking at me with a blank expression one day and asking "What do you mean by PITI?"

She was serious... she didn't know.

Then there are the retired whatevers. One older agent showed us everything opposite of what we said we wanted. It turned out she hadn't been an agent all that long. She was a retired school teacher. Obviously used to talking, not listening!

Looking forward to the rest of the story...

Marte Cliff, Copywriter

Marte - thanks for the comment!

I have found a "Connect"ion with your list - unlike others. Can't wait to see the rest.

Expanding on Marte's comment - I sold a house a few years ago when I had been in the industry about a year, saving the client from foreclosure after her attempt at a FSBO fell through after closing. We got it under contract in 3 days and closed in about 30.

One offer that came in was from a 20+ year veteran, who wrote the offer for his daughter. Among the more noteable errors, he didn't check the box to make the offer contingent upon an inspection. FOR HIS OWN DAUGHTER, and he couldn't properly fill out a contract even given an entire weekend to prepare it before being able to present it to the seller.

Your point #2 is great advice - don't think for a minute that just because someone is older means they know what they are doing. Likewise, just because someone has been in the industry for 10+ years does not mean that they know what they are doing either.

To suggest otherwise does a disservice to both new agents and the clients that they may serve.

Greg

When you get the 1000 reasons I am going to print them out and give them to half of the people in my city. So when they interview their REALTOR® with 1000 questions(which will tie them up for days) I'll handle the rest of the city with my 9 questions you should ask because I will be the only one available to meet with! LOL.

Keep it up, I like your style

Nick - EXACTLY. This ties into "asking questions!" I agree with about $ being spent on advertising. If one agent spends $10.00 a month in advertising and another spends more and can demonstrate the effectiveness than that is worth paying X amount of commisison in my opinion. I hope you understand my point

Spot on. Nuff said. Brilliant piece of work. I'm copying it for buyers and sellers, if you don't mind. Giving you the credit though.

Great list, Ill be here till the end! I will be re-blogging!

I agree with comment #60. Being positive with advice is more in tune with my way of looking at the world.

very nice! LOL - Love this list and looking forward to the rest!

# ?? If the agebt's face in front of you, looks like the parent or grandparent of the face on the business card...leave.

Brian Master ASA, Realtor "Let's Get You Home" (RE/MAX Professionals, Mississauga, ON Canada)

Awww...I think you're being a little harsh, Greg! I like my 2010 BMW AND my stretchy pants from SEARS!!

I love your post, the title, and most of all, your sense of humor. I look forward to reading more of your posts.

Stop the Senior bashing!!!!!

I'm so old, active rain won't even post my 1968 picture!!!!!

Go Nino- hit you a few nerves on this one - the wonderful blessings of Featured Posts. Of course, your normal readers recognize YOU in that post, so I won't go getting all snarky at you, promise. ;)

I have struggled with the age vs experience issue a lot. I am blessed/cursed with looking very young and often get flat out asked how old I am at listing appointments. Yet I'll turn around and get an offer from someone in the "biz" for "years" that's half blank, missing forms/disclosures, and doesn't know what kind of loan their buyer has.

Can't wait to see the rest, you pot-stirrer you. ;)

Hi Greg -- for #9, google it, instead of ask for it! :) That's a better test.

Hey Greg - like #5..as a consumer I would run very fast...this is so obvious they don't put much value on their skills and have dollar signs in their eyes...fun post looking forward to more...

With smiles,

Bo in Yukon

It's a nice, common sense list, but really isn't this list as much of an ego stroker as all the ego advertising you disdain here?

Thats 8 ways how not no hire a Realtor. # 9 is the #1 that tells you how to hire.. so you got 999 to go.. And I agree with some of the comments that sounding negative about your competition can fire-back sometimes..

A lot of valid points to consider. Most clients laugh when I tell them I've been in the business over 30 years. It's true but they laugh. It gives me a good chance to explain my background.

Very interesting list here Greg. Always enjoy reading your post.

JAN

2010

Mostly only a successful agent can afford to consistently advertise in magazines. It does impress and it's costly. The agents who do that in my area would be great agents to hire. I agree not to buy or lease a car that you can't afford...but if you can't afford a great car after several years then maybe you're not doing something right.

Greg, I do agree with your comment that age shouldn't be the basis of how you pick your Real Estate Agent. I don't think that is the only thing that you should focus on. I think that if you ask the right questions and the person is qualified to do your business then they should.

I too have that trouble with the age thing some people think that because I am younger then I don't know enough to help an older person. 80% of my closings are declined loans from builders or "Trouble Files" from other Loan Officers. So I know what I am doing and I help families buy homes everyday just like someone with 20 years of experience even better some times.

God Bless,

Frank Marta (Texas Home Loan Specialist)

I like some of what you have posted and what better way to bring attention to yourself then to insinuate that you are better then your competition in a 1,000 ways. Look forward to seeing the rest.

Overall, good comments, but I don't necessarily think being part time in the business is bad .I take offense to that because I know I have a life like the rest and if I was 10,000 feet in the air, I probably would not answer the phone anyway. The few clients I have had enjoy my customer service because it is more personalized and I value each one like a friend. Maybe because I am low pressure...I do not know. I know I take my work seriously.

What one must ask is ...CAN I REACH MY REALTOR ON THE PHONE?

True story about part time: Clients love honesty. They had trust issues. Had a recent prospect who wanted me to spill my beans so to speak on a lead generating website. I told them like it was, and while they preferred a more local agent that could better service them 15 miles away, they replied that they would send friends or family my way if they were buying in my direction.

Hey, Greg! Watch what you say about old agents! Some of us are wise elders! This promises to be a great series.

These are great!!! I love the "ego advertising is for the the ego", don't we all know these folks. They are the ones that use the glamor shots and should beware.

I look forward to the rest.

Greg: I like number 5. It's such a huge red flag. If they will give away their money that fast, imagine how fast they'll give away a seller's money.

Dianne - wow, great point. I hadn't thought of that one before.

Carla - I just posted 10-20! Go check it out.

Patricia - Of course *you* are. You're an experienced agent who does this for a living!

John - don't be sensitive, really. Tongue and cheek for the most part. The message is pretty clear in my opinion.

Gary - But a lot of agents ARE better than thousands! Did you know the average Realtor makes about 30 grand a year and has 4.5 listings? If you make twice that and have say 10 listings a year than it stands to reason that more folks are giving you more business for more reasons. It's that simple. I'm not speaking to a persons soul, just their production. No arrogance here my friend.

Frank - I think we've either met or done business, no?

Frank C - it's all about your market. Here, most homeowners are not impressed with glossy magazines. None that I've ever asked anyways.

Roland - I'm grateful to always have you as a commentor.

Christine - 30 years????? What? Did you start at 5? You look too young!!

Raj - it's bad perception. maybe misunderstood perception by a small percentage of the commentors. It's good information in the RAW.

Aaron - because it was featured and received almost 200 comments doesn't make it an ego stroker. That happened after I wrote the post.

Bo - Glad you liked it!

Chris O- Good point, Google your next agent and see what you find.

Sheree - yes I did, but that's okay. I've got buds like you who always pick me up!

Manny - ha!

Sharon - Thanks so much.. very kind of you to say so.

Sonja - hey neighborh!! lol! Good to hear from a hometown hero! ;-)

Greg - That's more along the lines of what I was looking for. If an agent can demonstrate that their $10/month in marketing is more effective than another agent's $1000/month, AND they're willing to pass along some of that savings, would you not bite?

If Dealer A is asking $65k for a new BMW, and Dealer B is willing to sell that exact same BMW for only $60k, do you not agree that you would be a fool for paying $5000 more, if the level of service between the two was identical? Perhaps Dealer B doesn't do print advertising so their overhead is much lower, yet they have the same service hours, loaners, courteous clerks, and they're equally far from your home.

Discounting a real estate agent based solely on their pricing is every bit as foolish. To say otherwise shows fear.

Have a wonderful day!

Nick - I would still be very leary of a realtor who starts out the conversation with.. "I'll give you back 1/2 my commission." To me, it provides pause, and "asking more questions." I'd be concerned about what this guy is going to do - for only making X amount of dollars. If agent A makes 1/2 the money of agent B than it stands to reason (in some cases) that agent B as more money to spend on advertising. There's a marketshare for both types of Realtors and neither you or I will change each others opinion on the subject. The public will always need and want different models to fit their needs, and that's necessary for full models to exist. We have an agent in town who charges X, which is much less than the competition. He's very succesful, but also running himself into the ground with all the business he's getting. He's not making very much, and he's relying on volume to survive. I often wonder how his sellers are dealing with the level of service he may or many not be providing. He's a one man show, so I know it's impossible to provide EXCELLENT service to 35 sellers by yourself. I've done it, it's impossible, trust me. He won't "hire" help because his profit margins are so low. Plus, he's banking on the fact that our awesome MLS will do all the work. He does very little advertising at all. He's very upfront with his sellers, so I respect that. I admire his work ethic, for sure.

The poor guy sent his booklet of advertising to my house by mistake once. And I called him asking questions, this was how I got to learn so much about him.

Ironically, discount brokers spend 75% of their talking with sellers on why "traditional" agents aren't worth what they're paid. This is very sad indeed. I know this because I've met with a multitude of sellers who reveal this typical tactic by discount models.

The trash talking apparently goes both ways doesn't it? Neither is good for the seller or general public.

Nobody should be "scared" of the competition. I'm not. In Houston, the majority of consumers use traditional agents. I'm GLAD we have discount brokerages, because I can't and won't "reduce" my pay for most. Having those guys around is also a necessity for me I guess.

At the end of the day it's about consumer options.

Nick,

I just read your profile. This better explains your position with this post. You'll notice nowhere on my profile do I talk down other Realtors or their models. Your comments on this blog kinda go against what you are saying on your profile.

You elude to the fact other Realtors are maybe "telling consumers what they want to hear" when you say:

Unlike most agents, I don't specialize in whatever you say you're looking for.

You also say:

My marketing plan is the same plan offered and performed by the smart agents - it's almost entirely an online marketing program.

Nick, I consider myself to be a "smart agent" but I doubt we market the same. I use a majority of online advertising (that does cost money) and mix it with traditional methods. Above in this blog you said that "online advertising is free." I guess that depends on what you're getting out of it. We get about 350 prospects a month, half of which are buyers. Those "leads" come with work, time, energy and yes, MONEY spent. Our marketing plans are very different. So you saying you charge X because you & the "smart agents" do the same thing is not accurate, in my case.

I visited your personal website and was confused. Do you not have any listings? Can you tell me where I can find them?

I did get this when I clicked on HOME:

Page Not Found The page you tried to access does not exist on this server. This page may not exist due to the following reasons: 1. You are the owner of this web site and you have not uploaded (or incorrectly uploaded) your web site. For information on uploading your web site using FTP client software or web design software, click here for FTP Upload Information. 2. The URL that you have entered in your browser is incorrect. Please re-enter the URL and try again. 3. The Link that you clicked on incorrectly points to this page. Please contact the owner of this web site to inform them of this situation.

Nick,

I understand you being defensive about my post. But understand that Active Rain is FULL of agents challenging methods. You can't defend your posture thousands of times over and over again. It's like me trying to prove my point that agents who push kickbacks are "buying" their clients. It's always going to happen.

I really like your straightforwardness on your website. I'd love to check out some of your listings when you post them. Best of luck and take care.

Lots of comments here. It will take me until next week to get through them all! A lot of the "big shots" I have seen will pay the bucks, get the listing and then "farm" it out...oh - they call it sharing with a new agent! Bingo!

Greg - Great start to you 1,000 ways series. Looking forward to reading more . Driving my BMW

My favorites were # 8 and # 9 but they were all valid points. Google is an awesome resource to learn about someone. Personal recommendations still hold some weight too, especially when you are a good agent that works hard at making sure the job gets done.

Fortunately word gets around. Joy

I love Paul's shiney new car! Greg, I love your ambition! Go for it!

JAN

2010

That's a good start Greg. Do I have to read all 1000?

JAN

2010

This is excellent. I think I will use this information when trying to determine if I want to start a referral relationship with a realtor.

JAN

2010

Ok. This is going to be interesting. It's a good goal to have but you also have to tie things together so clients won't feel overwhelmed. Happy writing.

JAN

2010

Are you really going to come up with 1000 items? I look forward to them.

FEB

2010

So Far So Good!

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Greg Nino Houston Texas

Houston, TX

More about me…

RE/MAX West Houston Professionals

Address: 7825 Hwy 6 N Ste 112, Houston, TX, 77095

Cell Phone: (832) 298-8555

Email Me

RE/MAX Realtor & Team Leader for Team GT & Associates. We proudly serve all of Harris, Montgomery, FT. Bend, Brazoria and Galveston Counties. Your Greater Houston Metropolitan connection. Enjoy the posts.

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