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Advising our sellers on Inspections - LEAVE!!!

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Signature Properties

I had a home inspection this morning. I represent the buyers.  We arrived at the home bright and early.  Low and behold, our seller was at home and she proceeded to tell us EVERYTHING!!!  Oy!

She was happy that we offered full priced because she isn't a negotiator!  Back when she sold real estate (great, an ex-agent) she always had her clients offer the best offer first, take it or leave it because she isn't a negotiator.  She went on to add that she didn't intend on doing repairs and she didn't negotiate on those things either.

Has her agent not discussed this process with her?  Was she unaware that many people in real estate do, indeed, negotiate, in fact, that is how we spend our days.  Did she feel the need to have to alienate and/or offend her buyers?  Probably not!!  As agents, we have a responsibility to talk with our clients and advise them honestly.  Have your sellers leave during the home inspection.  Not only because it is long and invasive but because pride of ownership makes it, often, very hurtful.  This can and is reflected in what the sellers say to the buyers and the inspector.  Then, we agents have to repair and rebuild a seller/buyer relationship which should never have been allowed in the first place. 

We need to save our sellers from themselves.  Ask them to leave during the inspection, have lunch or catch a movie.  If they insist on being home ask them to be in another part of the home from the buyers and inspector.   This makes the inspection process so much easier.

 

Leigh Brown
Leigh Brown & Associates, RE/MAX Executive - Charlotte, NC
CEO, Dream Maker - Charlotte, NC
ouch-you hadn't mentioned that she is an ex-agent...they're the WORST CLIENTS (or customers) EVER!  and there's usually a reason they're no longer attempting to be active. =)  sounds like she was quite the top gun since she never had to negotiate...
Dec 06, 2006 07:37 AM
Eddy Martinez
Nationwide Funding Group - Highland Park, CA
Sellers can be me the most far out people sometimes. And i mean far out of their minds !!!!! Great story
Dec 06, 2006 08:37 AM
David Spencer
Keller Williams Northland - Kansas City, MO
Show Me real estate in Kansas City
Tell them the inspector is an ex-marine and has difficulty in accepting rejection without serious violent repercusions.
Dec 06, 2006 10:07 AM
Ginger S
Wilkinson & Associates, Wilmington NC - Wilmington, NC
Wilmington NC Real Estate & Relocation~

An ex agent! Leigh is right, That is like having a Doctor as a patient.

There is a reason why she is an EX. LOL!

Ginger

Dec 08, 2006 02:42 AM