When do you give your Client the Bad News?

I was out showing properties last week to some folks that were looking to buy a Home on acreage. We previewed several and they have yet to decide. They'll be back in Mid-June.

While we were out looking, there were actually two 35 acre listings, side by side, and as we walked from the one to the adjacent property we were greeted by the Homeowner. She  was quite hospitable and gave us the grand tour of her home. She pointed out everything she had done, since she purchased the home, to include the Solar panels that allowed her to generate all of the electricity she needed. It was a very nice home.

After my Clients had retired for the day, I contacted the Agents whose properties I showed, and gave them the feedback on their respective listings. I try to do this immediately as to quell their unanswered questions.

I received a call yesterday, from the Homeowner that had greeted us at the one listing. She wanted to know what my Clients had thought of her Home and if they were interested in Buying it.

I told her that they liked the fact that the home was self sufficient and that the views were amazing. I also told her that my Clients were not interested because the asking price was about 25% higher than comps in the area.

I also told the Homeowner that I had touched base with her Listing Agent and gave them, "The Bad News". Her Agent never called her.

After that conversation, I called her Agent and revealed what I had just encountered. I asked why the Agent hadn't gotten in touch with her to tell her we weren't going to be making an offer on her Home.

The Agent told me that he was waiting for the "Right Time"......

What???....  The right time!?.... Wow!

When I get news, it doesn't matter, if it is good or bad, I will contact my client as quickly as possible to inform them of the feedback I had received. They are just as anxious to hear back as I am.

I would definitely prefer to have them hear it from me. After all it is my duty to stay in touch with my Client when getting any information pertinent to their Home. I just can't imagine what this Gal thought about her Agent after all was said and done. (although, I have an idea) It's not a flattering image.

When a Client hires me to do a job, I will go out of my way to convey any and all information, regarding their inquiry, no matter how much it may hurt. If they were to get an offer, I would call, promptly. The same goes for anything negative or detrimental.

They really do need to know.