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Silence isn't always Golden

By
Real Estate Agent with Century 21 Crest Real Estate

ACCORDING TO SELLERS,

SILENCE ISN'T ALWAYS 'GOLDEN'

 

When trying to sell a home, silence isn't always golden especially when you're expecting your real estate agent to call.  In fact, it's one of the leading complaints among sellers in the real estate market.  Often times you find an agent who is more than willing to take on your listing, but once the relationship is made, the seller enjoys getting a call at least once a week.

 

"A seller should establish with the agent up front the expectation that regular communication will occur.  Even if it's just to check-in, the seller will be more satisfied being kept 'in the loop',"

Keeping the communication lines open between the two parties assures the seller that the agent is keeping them apprised of any and all offers.  In addition, agents often provide valuable tips on why prospective buyers weren't interested.  Often times, an agent is privy to the buyer's dislikes of the property.  For instance 'this room's too dark' or 'the kitchen has a funny smell.'  This allows the agent to give the seller constructive feedback and offer important tips on how to make the home more attractive to future buyers.

 

If you're a seller and are not hearing from your broker, be sure to keep calling them until they get the message that you expect a regular update.  If the broker doesn't return your calls, leave a message for your broker's office manager.  The manager will see to it that your broker becomes more attentive to your listing.

 

Selling a home can be a lot of work and sometimes quite stressful.  It is incumbent upon an agent to satisfy the seller's expectations of routine updates; this will ensure the possibility of future business not to mention a successful sale.  Furthermore, as a seller you must demand the communication exchange between you and your agent.  If both parties work in a cooperative effort, the selling experience will be more successful and enjoyable for both the agent and the seller involved.

 

Mary Aguilar
David Lyng Real Estate - Monterey, CA
I like to under-promise and over-deliver.  Communication is key - whether it's good or bad news.
Feb 25, 2008 05:30 AM
Jackie Cross
Real Living All Florida Realty - Port St Lucie, FL
Setting up their expectations is number 1.  Let them know up front what to expect from you as their agent.
Feb 25, 2008 05:32 AM
R. B. "Bob" Mitchell - Loan Officer Raleigh/Durham
Bank of England (NMLS#418481) - Raleigh, NC
Bob Mitchell (NMLS#1046286)

I always attempt to be the one contacting my seller before they can contact me!  Doesn't always work out that way, but it's worth the effort!

 

Bob Mitchell

ValueList Real Estate Services, Inc. 

Feb 25, 2008 05:50 AM
Marie Episale
CENTURY 21 CREST REAL ESTATE - Pompton Plains, NJ
ePRO 201-314-0106 - Pompton Plains New Jersey
I agree.. probably the number one Seller complaint , and rightfully so,  is a lack of communication and feedback from their agents. 
Feb 25, 2008 01:05 PM
Steve Scheer
Realty Oasis - Metro Brokers - Highlands Ranch, CO
Highlands Ranch Real Estate - Denver Real Estate
Tere - Its important for sellers to know when/how often they will hear from you and that when something is going on that communication is clear, efficient and timely.  Good post.  
Feb 26, 2008 12:19 AM