Almost three years ago, at an open house, I met my clients, Tom and Margie. It was one of those moments that just felt right. You know what I mean, the clients walk in, you offer information, have a nice chat and before they leave an exchange of contact information. Good vibes all around!
As I said, for nearly three years, I sent listings, went on home tours and even wrote up a couple of offers that died. During this time Tom, an avid house hunter, not wanting to “bother” me, would go to open houses and chat with agents always letting them know that I was their agent. In fact, another agent called to say they had been to his open house, he offered help and service, trying to lure them away but they said, “No thanks, Michael is our guy.” The agent was so impressed he had to call me. This happened not once but three times. I have no idea how many times this occurred, but three calls from different agents was enough to prove their loyalty.
During this time, the three of us were patient. They wanted to move, but it had to be right. I wanted a deal, anytime is a good time for a closed transaction. I knew it would happen eventually. I just had to be patient. There was a part of me that almost hated to see us put something together because, sometimes clients get back to their life, drift away and the relationship fades.
Eventually the right house came along. It was only on the market a short time in a desirable area. Tom paid top dollar for it. It was a long closing but it all worked out. Everyone is happy.
But wait, there’s more to the story. I listed their home for sale. Margie wanted me to handle the sale, but Tom was thinking I might not want to make the thirty-five minute drive back and forth to show the property. “What? Are you kidding me, of course I will,” I said. Ok, done deal.
The upshot from this nearly three year tale is to not give up on a client who takes their time, be patient, trust your instincts, do a good job to inspire loyalty and in the end it just might pay off! The transaction yielded one of the best commissions in my ten years in this business with another one to come. The good news is I believe the friendship will remain and that’s the best ending any story can have.
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