Old School

Photo by Taylor Hawke (my father-in-law) 

I recently came accross a listing that I was showing a client, and the Listing Agent who is known for being an REO listing agent indicated in the Agent's notes:  For an immediate response, please contact me with your questions on this listing.  "I am old school, I respond to your voicemails and emails, I thank you for showing my listing".  I was completely impressed with this statement, unfortunately my client didn't choose this agent's property. His note in the MLS made me want to work with him!  Since when is being a professional considered "Old School".  If that's the case, I guess I'm Old School!

I am a (old school) professional Realtor, and take great pride in my chosen profession, clients and reputation.  I enjoy networking and working with other Realtors that recipricate the same professional courtesy.  I think that it goes without saying, that I've worked with Realtors that could improve on communication and attention to detail.  I recently submitted an offer for a short sale, that was priced way below market value (so I'm sure the listing agent has been enendated with calls, offers, etc).  My clients offer was solid, and It's been almost a week...(chirip, chirp, chirp)....I haven't heard anything.  I left a message and text, to confirm the offer and atempt to ascertain when the offers will be presented to the seller.  In review of the title, the property has one lien...so it should be a relatively standard short sale.  Today, just for *bleep* and giggles, I sent a follow up email to the agent.  Still, nothing, no response.  I have communicated with my client that short sales are longer transactions, the reason for the request to "Submit offer Subject to Inspection", etc.  But in my interest to be customer centric and communicate....it would be nice to know....something.  I guess that's my old school sensabilities clouding my judgement again.

I understand that we are all busy, but I saw one agent indicate in the MLS "agent very busy".  Duh!  Who isn't busy these days?  It's a great market to buy or sell a home!  I'm old school, but I prefer to provide instructions such as "MLS is updated daily, if showing active, property is active.  I respond more quickly to text or email as opposed to phone calls, please email me your questions".  I think it conveys the same message, gives my fellow Realtors options and at the same time shows I am interested in professionally representing my client.  Is that old school? 

In reviewing my emails, Pacific West Association of Realtors (my Association) sent their weekly PWR Minute.  I was pleased that the Association addressed the need for Realtors to be respectful to one another. 

My low grade rant is over.  Thanks for listening and enjoy the video.