Its been my policy NOT to buy lunch for Buyers unless we have written a decent offer or are discussing a good one to write right after lunch. I have heard of many who buy lunch for everyone and then wonder why they are going broke. We are NOT in the lunch and tour business.
I really hate it when they want to start at 11 am. You know whats next, 1-2 homes and we need lunch. These are always people I have never met before.
So what is your policy about buying lunch? Am I being too stingy?
Hmmm tough question. I have bought lunch many times and just chaulk it up as a business expense. Interesting to see what others say.
Maybe, it depends, probably not. I wasted a lot of money early in my career, until I learned to schedule people before and after the lunch hour.
We must remember we run a business, so we should make good business decisions. I can see that there would be an occasion that would warrant buying lunch, but in the main I don't think it is a best practice.
Thought provoking post. Thanks
Sharon Tara
Portsmouth, NH
OMG....the title caught my eye as I was scrolling through and I thought I saw Do You Buy Lunch For Hookers. LOL!
Pete Xavier
Pacific Palisades, CA
Martha: I hope to get more opinions too!
Fred; I think we all have.
John: Agreed
Sharon: I knew I could count on you to look at it differently. LOL
I don't think it should be expected. Coffee or bottle of water perhaps but lunch, not until they are a paying client.
Rob - I have in the past but try not to do this now. It really doesn't buy you any good will at all.
I think it is a good idea to allow them to have lunch on their own so they can privately discuss the homes they have seen.
Chief Cook used to buy the first lunch and then promised a nice lunch after a closing. None of the those first-time buyers made it to the second lunch!
Bought lunch for my out-of-town buyers today. They are NOT lookie-loos or tire-kickers - those folks NEVER get lunch, or a ride. ;)
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