Don't list the property if you don't want to answer questions about it!

This is excellent advise. I have had similar situations. It's very frustrating.

I agree with you that even REO agents need to bring themselves up to speed on terminology if they are selling unique properties. At least they could be nice and say they don't know exactly. No one is an expert in everything.

You, undoubtedly, know more about horse property than the listing agent does. Maybe your phone call will prompt her to study up a bit! Just a little in her defense, though, I'd add that with traditional listings, the agent has the help of the homeowner when providing these details. When listing an REO, the agent does not have that resource.

Chances are the LA never even saw the property, or did a quick drive-by.

Call them out!

Catherine, I hate it when the listing agent doesn't make an effort to answer questions or provide adequate information! I have a client ready to make an offer on a house right now, but she wants a few questions answered about the property first. I have left several voicemails with the listing agent and sent two e-mails requesting more info, and have not gotten a reply yet. Amazing. Nice post.

Hi Catherine, it goes with the concept that the banks expect listing agents to take all listings they are offered.  The big looser is the bank that ownes the property.

Perhaps you should offer to co-broker it with her as you seem to know more than she does.

Catherine- I think there is no shame in not knowing IF (and that's a very big IF) the follow three principles apply... 1.) ADMIT you don't know!  Say, "I'm sorry, but I'm just not sure, let me check on that and get back to you."  Don't lie, don't get defensive, admit your short comings and work to rectify them.  2.) FOLLOW THROUGH!  Actually go find the answer in a timely fashion and get back to the person.  3.)This is the first time you've been asked such a question.  If this is her third or fourth REO equestrian property and she hasn't figured out by now people are going to want to know basic facts regarding fencing, pasture/area size etc.. then there is no helping that person.  Would it be better to have someone who specializes in this type of property list it?  Yes, but she could do more with the hand she was dealt ;)  

Around here the word 'barn' is subject to a variety of interpretations.  The remarks might say, "15 acres with barn... bring the horses!!!"  This may turn out to be a structure cows or pigs were housed in, might even be an over-sized garage with the roof partly missing.  Barn is a very subjective word around here! :)

Catherine - The types of questions you were asking seem to be perfectly reasonable for a horse property.  The potential buyers could have a number of important items on their list that are essential for their situation.s

MLS's give REO agents too much leeway in poor presentation of properties, I think.

Catherine, you are so right. It's amazing.

We just showed a short sale home that was vacant, agent said "oh, yes. It's vacant, show it any time". ..only to find someone living in a spare bedroom . Really!?! Sometimes, the lack of professionalim amazes me.

Mark

Catherine - surely makes you wonder how some agents can stay in business, doesn't it!

By the way, thanks for the comment on my blog today. Have a great 2011!