Trying to choose only one person from this sociological group was not easy but we're going with Suzie because we had so much fun together. (Suzie is not her real name as this was a recent transaction and we want to protect her identity.)
Suzie, like all Millennials I've met, called me after doing her research online. She had questions. Lots of questions. Intelligent questions. After our conversation, I sent her my Buyer Slide-show, pdf on the Buying Process, pertinent MLS stats, a Username and Password for access to my professional home search site, copy of the Buyer Agency Agreement to read, contact info for a reputable local lender, and some other information via email. Once she'd digested all of the material I sent her and integrated it with the information she'd gotten from other sources, she called back to say she had her Pre-Approval Letter and was ready to meet IRL.
Our initial consultation lasted nearly 2 hours. This is not unusual for people who have a lot of questions. My niece was born in the 90's and some of my clients remind me of her in the way they request and process information. Some may process faster than others but all seem to need to have a good overall understanding of what's going to happen before moving forward. A little bit of silence as they process doesn't hurt either. I'm good with that. I'm comfortable in silence and I believe well-informed people are capable of making wise decisions.
Once we'd formulated our plan of action from the office, we scheduled a showing trip for the following day. She was on time and ready to go! As we went through each home, I would point out anything I saw as far as condition and value; she'd voice what she liked and didn't like and write it down in her notepad. There is nothing like witnessing someone's honest, unfiltered reaction to a home.
Touring homes, as you know, is emotionally draining for the buyer. By the time we had seen all of the homes scheduled for that day, she had worked up an appetite so we decided to get some lunch. The meals are probably what did it for me. We each knew of restaurants that the other had not been to so every showing trip included a gastronomic experience. As thin as she is, you wouldn't think that she could eat as much as she does. (I remember that metabolism!) Allowing for her vacation and only going out once or twice a week, it took us a couple of months to find the right house and negotiate a good deal for her first home so we had several good meals together.
When it came time for writing the offer and negotiating, there were a few tough moments. Suzie did great though! She called me anytime she felt apprehension getting the better of her and we'd talk it out. Most of the time, these were things we'd already gone over so as soon as I'd say one word, she'd say "Oh yeah! I remember now!" Sometimes, Suzie would have a remodeling idea for her new home so she'd call and I'd share with her different ways she might do such a thing. One day we stopped by my house to pick something up so she got to see the pergola my brother and I were building. (It's not real fancy but Mom uses it for her Stroke recovery exercises so it serves it's purpose and doesn't look half-bad.) Naturally, she had questions and suggestions and it gave her even more ideas for her new back yard.--
Best part of this transaction? Suzie and I still meet for lunch occasionally.
What did I learn from this experience? I enjoy being around bright young people with loads of energy. And I can learn from them. Technologically, I'm smarter than the average bear but I remember the time when it took a whole room to hold a computer. I share information about real estate and life but, if I listen, these people who've grown up with smartphones in their pockets can teach me things I do not know.
Also see My Favorite Client - The Marine - Military Relocation
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