I've been a Realtor® for a while now...but I am still surprised by the day-to-day issues which arise during transactions. In the current environment, it seems that every new escrow has it's own novelties. It's really keeping us all on our toes. And that's OK.....this is how we learn!

I have never felt uncomfortable saying "I don't know" but that's because it's always followed by "but I'll find out."

It doesn't diminish me by admitting that a situation is new to me....or challenging. The qualities that define a professional include honesty, follow-up and intelligence. These are qualities that exist on the very first day. They are the qualities which allow an agent (or any other professional) to navigate a transaction to a successful conclusion....even if it's the very first time.

There are many sources of information to find solutions to obstacles. Even if I have not faced a specific issue, most likely someone else has. The main thing is to recognize this...and pursue the information. Clients understand that we don't know it all!The faith they have in our representation is based on our willingness to find out! Get the answers! Ask the questions and keep searching until you get information that makes sense.

We lose credibility only if we give up....or worse yet, we don't even attempt to find answers.

I don't like problems...no one does....but if we see it as an opportunity to learn and gain more experience, then we will see them as education. This allows us to increase our knowledge. Real estate is always changing and evolving. So if you don't know it all right now....that's ok, just go find out.