One Good Referral Is Better Than A Bunch Of Junk Ones.

Months ago, I received a phone call.  A referral!  Further into the call, the details were sketchy about the Buyer.  My questions were vaguely answered and the crux of the conversation quickly turned to, "A signed  referral agreement needs to be received before giving Buyer info." Long story shortened, it didn't work out.

Over the weekend, a call from this buyer.  Another long story short - buyer wanted to "hook up" with a realtor who would show him all the properties he found that were soon to be foreclosed on.  His intent was then to go on his own to buy them at auction or through the listing agent.  You see, he could do everything on his own except get into the home. Ahhhh, I see.

I declined. Although we don't always know what the outcome will be when giving referrals- we stand a pretty good chance at an ideal referral if a few simple things are done:

Know who you are referring. Last referral I gave out, I knew the individuals situation and was able to give detailed info prior to any contact the agent had with a potential client. What happened? A quick, successful listing.

Try to make sure the agent you refer will be a good fit for the client. Even if you don't know them personally, pick up the phone, call and talk: is this your area, are you able to handle this type of sale/listing, etc. 

Don't make referral fee and an agreement priority on the list. It goes without saying (except with me - I don't charge referral fees I only ask for good treatment of anyone I refer out and a thank you!) that there will be a fee.  Make the focus the client.

And a little tip for those receiving referrals.  Do not take them for granted.  Say thank you - then prove it.  Send a card and do it whether or not the client worked out.  I don't charge a fee so a thank you card goes a long way.  If that's too hard for someone to do - I'll remember it down the road and likely refer to someone else next time.

Buying or selling Tucson real estate, Mt Lemmon, Tucson bank-owned homes, Tucson rental homes, or Tucson lease option homes? Visit www.KGCPropertiesLLC.com!

                                     

This blog is written with my opinions and my opinions are presented with accuracy but not guarantees. Please talk to a professional before making any real estate, financial or agency decisions.    Gabrielle Kamahele Rhind - 2011. If you want to reprint parts of this - just email me for my permission: TucsonsRealEstate@gmail.com.