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Is there a 24/7 Realtor?

By
Real Estate Agent with Caron's Gateway Real Estate

They say a missed showing is a missed commission.  Your clients expect you to be available 24 hours a day to show their homes.   We know that is not possible and thus lock boxes and unassisted showings have helped to solve that problem. 

I know I might be saying something that might irk some people but I wanted to have a discussion about availability.

Have you ever tried to set up a showing with an agent that said "I only work Monday-Friday?"   or "I do not do weekend showings."     I have experienced this and my response is that this is when my client is available to see the property, will this work for you?   Most of the time I get the same response above, but a few times I have had the Realtor make an exception and schedule the showing.  I thank them for their time and move on.

Are Realtors allowed to have a life?  I mean we have families, friends, and activities that we like to do like everyone else.  We get sick and have to deal with family issues.  I try to make myself available as much as I can, but sometimes I cannot be there.

How do we deal with this?  If you work in a friendly and non ultra-competitive office you might have another agent go on the listing for you.  If the property sells then you probably will give them a little referral fee.  This creates a win-win situation.  It allows you to be "available" when you are not, creates some office cohesion and allows another a Realtor a slice of the pie.  If not?  Try to offer another time you are available so the other agent can schedule a time that works for them.

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Thank you for taking the time to view my blog.   If you know someone who is looking for Real Estate services in New Hampshire, please contact me by email nick@caronsgre.com or phone 802-279-2483.  We would be happy to give you a referral.

Andrew Mooers | 207.532.6573
MOOERS REALTY - Houlton, ME
Northern Maine Real Estate-Aroostook County Broker

Real estate is a jealous master... like love, wanting all of you. We work when other people don't and are available as sellers, buyers. But vacations, time off is critical. Just making it seamless and no one knowing is the sign of professionism. Your buyer and seller want you when they need you. Better not try 9-5 or look for another job.

Feb 20, 2011 01:00 AM
Bob Jakowinicz
National Realty Centers Livonia--Bob Jakowinicz - Livonia, MI
Michigan Real Estate Agent-- MI Real Adventures

The hours can be crazy but I do agree time off is very important.  Some may not like this but it has to happen, It makes us better people all around.  I can see going through periods of time where time off is very limited but we should always have something at the end of the tunnel to look forward to. 

Feb 20, 2011 01:03 AM
Gary L. Waters Broker Associate, Bucci Realty
Bucci Realty, Inc. - Melbourne, FL
Eighteen Years Experience in Brevard County

This is the question that all must ask themselves early on. I will refer out to other agents as I make time for myself and life. Most of my clients understand as well when I explain.

Feb 20, 2011 01:04 AM
Norma J. Elkins
Elite Realty Group - Morristown, TN
Realtor - Elkins Home Selling Team

I try to do the best I can for my clients BUT I have to have a life also and each person has to decide that for themselves - Have a great day :-)

Feb 20, 2011 01:06 AM
John Durham
Durham Executive Group - RE/MAX/Results - Woodbury, MN
MS, MS, ASP, ARS

I put in a lot more hours than the average US worker per week, but there are definitely lines I put in the sand to protect my personal time and family time. There has to be at least some balance in your life otherwise you will burn out.

Feb 20, 2011 01:41 AM
Nicholas Caron
Caron's Gateway Real Estate - Derry, NH

Andrew,

I think you have highlighted the eternal struggle Realtors face.  Because we do not have "set" hours we are seen to be on call.

Bob,

You are correct we need something to work for.  Our children's college education, vacation, or some security.  

Gary,

You mean this is not one of the questions on the national test?   It can be difficult to juggle many schedules.  In our business we have the added stress of if it does not close we don't get paid.

 

 

Feb 20, 2011 04:38 AM
Nicholas Caron
Caron's Gateway Real Estate - Derry, NH

Norma,

We are allowed to have lives?   I think most understand this, except when it affects them. 

John,

That burnout can have a worse affect on your business and personal life then when you have set, but flexible hours.  It is a tightrope that each agent much walk daily.

 

Feb 20, 2011 04:41 AM