"Hi. I'm from the real estate office, and I'm here to help you." That line is reminiscent of the "I'm 
from the government, and I'm here to help you" line of the 80s that drew laughter and a healthy skepticism from most Americans.
I took a young couple out over the weekend who are looking to buy their first home. They were excited and scared to near paralysis. During our time together, they shared their most recent story about the agent they had just fired. He was trying to push them into a his listing that would make him a quick sale, a nice commission and nightmare for the buyers. They liked it, but on further inspection, they found that the house had foundation problems.
The agent encouraged them not to worry about it, it was only a $20,000 repair. No problem. Sign here, and when you get settled in, have the repair made and you'll have a great house. They nearly did it because they are so green, but sanity took over and they dropped him like a hot potato.
I trust that most of my colleagues look at their role as a Realtor as a helping profession. Far too often, young buyers like this are at the mercy of their agent. I know many of us dread a pack of parents, friends and family helping a young first time buyer, but if the agent assisting them is willing to steam roll them into a purchase that will cause them harm, they need the back up of other more experienced homeowners.
Friends, I hope you treat these young inexperienced buyers the same way you would want an agent to treat your kids. This couple was able to place a contract on their first home on Monday. They are excited, nervous and ready to take the next step toward adult level experience, and I am thrilled to hold their hand through the process. I really am from the real estate office, and I will definitely help you.
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