Why Did You Hire Me Again?
Why did you hire me as your Realtor if you know the market better than me?
Why did you interview three other Agents before me if you have all the answers?
Wouldn't we all like to ask our Seller's these questions? I have been on several Listing Appointments this year where I've encountered Seller's that know everything! I've had Seller's swear that a neighbor sold their home for more than is listed in MLS (simply because the neighbor said so). And, this same Seller will swear their home is more updated than comps I am showing them.
This is done while clicking on the actual photos of the property that just sold while I am pointing out the upgrades in the neighboring home. I've tried previewing competing homes on the market with my Seller before listing their home. This way, they can see firsthand the homes potential buyers would be comparing them to. These same Seller's "know" the history of "that home" and are quick to discount it.
This same type of Seller will discount my list of suggested repairs to make before putting the home on the market. They want to tell me which photos to use in marketing their home. And, let's not forget about the marketing description in MLS! I've tried to tactfully explain that I have been doing this for eight years and have successfully sold many homes similar to theirs. While I understand their passion for "their home," the potential buyer will see it in a different light.
I have walked away from several listing opportunities because I felt it would be an uphill battle the entire time. I have taken a few of the these types of listings and then had to have the uncomfortable conversation at some point where I asked the Seller, "Why did you hire me?"
Luckily, I usually encounter a Seller on my next Listing Appointment that will say, "Tell me what I need to do and I'll do it." How refreshing -- And, that is why I stay in real estate!
Brenda Mancil, RE/MAX Premier
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