“I thought it was an April Fool’s joke….” cried the Agent… We got a call from an agent who had been referred to a Seller. She went and met with the Sellers for over 2 hours on the first visit and in addition to explaining her qualifications as an agent, as they requested, went thru every room and the basement and exterior and gave them suggestions for what would put their best home forward before they put it on the market.
She also , at their request, gave them suggestions for contractors to assist with these items. A week later they called back. Confident that she had the listing, she bought a plant that matched their décor and they proudly showed her all they had done on her “to do” list. The snow had melted and with the roof visible., she suggested that they have a roofer evaluate the condition of the roof and replace some shingles . The deck was now in need of some washing and repair that had been snow covered on an earlier visit and they were going to take care of that as well.
They agreed….seemingly ….with her pricing and presentation…another 2 hour meeting… and would call her back when they had finished the outdoor “to do list.” The call came to the agent…on April Fool’s Day…..”Hi…this is the Smiths….we are listing our house with another agent that we really like.. We appreciate your time and advice, we did everything you said and the house looks great. If you have any buyers in our area, please send them our way.”
The agent was speechless….and felt ill all at the same time. “I trusted them !” she cried….”All they wanted to do was pick my brain, and use my contractors ! I feel abused and deceived !” Welcome the real estate and the real world….not everyone is honest….no matter what your level of experience, there will alwaus be the people who succeed in getting something for nothing.
I am betting you will see the listing in MLS for more a higher price and perhaps the agent discounted commission as well…what a concept. Tell the Sellers what they want to hear and charge them less money…..! We consoled her….”If those are the kind of people they are...and weren't honest with you now... do you really want to work with them anyway ?”
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