The number one thing that can help a person be successful in a down market is customer service skills.  Many people tell you, you have to have them, but what exactly are the most important qualities customers are looking for?

The answer to that is very easy, all you have to do is remember the issues you encountered when you were buying a house before you were an agent.

1. Find out your customers spending limit and don't deviate from it.  As a customer, I hated it when an agent would try to push me into a house that I could not afford.  If my limit was 225,000 and they showed me a 235,000 property, then I could negotiate, but not a 400,000 house.  I would instantly drop the agent and find someone else.

2.  Listen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! By listening to your customers needs and wants you can find the ideal house for them.  Never interrupt and be courteous.  Nobody likes a big know-it-all that doesn't let you get a word in edge-wise.

3. Be personable.  You want a realtor to treat you as a person not as $$$$$.  By sincerely caring about the client, it helps your reputation considerably and gets you the referrals you need.

4.  Be honest!!!!! Be there when you say you will be there and don't promise anything you cannot deliver.

By doing these things, you will find that you will have a greater success in a time when many people are struggling.