Or, more aptly named, 'Surefire Ways to Piss Off Your Agent.'
Agents make money, yes. If they're successful and diligent at what they do, it's a great career for the right person. But they are your representative, and working on your behalf. They think and act for you. They negotiate for you. So cut a little slack, eh?
Please don't become a know-it-all expert because you have the Internet…
This is the most common thing we get. "All" of the information is online. Well, maybe the listing is online - but much of the pertinent information you need is likely hidden, not to mention if the accuracy of the listing and whether the home is available or under contract.
It's okay to look! Sure, send me some properties that you might have interest in. But if we're too busy checking every MLS number you send over, we are distracted from finding the great properties that you really need to see.
Please don't eat up time with unresolved drama…
You and your dear beloved partner spent time assembling a list of wants and needs, but end of disagreeing on petty matters when the hunt begins! These teeny disagreements seem to take on a new form and shape when showings begin, and snowball.
Discuss your specific wants and needs at the consult that you should be having with your Realtor. We often play counselor in our day to day, but wouldn't you prefer to spent your time productively looking at homes that fit your criteria?
Please don't snub the listing before you step inside…
When you walk through homes, your Agent is learning about you… and should be mindful of what they discover to be your likes and dislikes. But then you pull up to… well, IT. And you don't want to leave the comforts of your car.
Pulling up to the house that has a bit of lackluster curb appeal doesn't mean that the Agent has done a poor job of searching and assembling homes to look at. Think about the potential behind those doors. If it meets the basic criteria of your home search, take a moment to investigate the home and express to your agent what you specifically don't care for. No harm done.
Please don't assume that you can get this on the cheap…
Showing you homes is fun, especially when everyone is happy and it works out! But looking at property can become cringeworthy if you express your desires to lowball each Seller.
Rather than be hardheaded about the 'deal' that you are going to land, consider the market statistics like industry trends, demand and days on market before you even consider making an offer that could be construed as an insult. Furthermore, negotiating the deal to a difference of $5,000 or $10,000 (depending on price point) should never kill the deal. Hard headed frugality usually doesn't pay. And in this market, you'll miss out on what you want.
Please don't cheat… that is, two-time your agent.
Nothing grinds my gears more than someone who wastes both their time, and mine, with entertaining more than one agent for their needs. Real estate agents don't make a dime until they make the sale. That is, until everyone signs at the title company and the transaction funds. Showings, weekends, evenings, phone calls, errands… all probono on the hopes of a commission to come.
Sure, you want to work with someone that gets you. Test the waters! You should have fun in your efforts to buy or sell. But if you are not content, or if you are thinking of working with another agent instead, please be courteous enough to let your agent know that you no longer wish to work with them. Bottom line: You will get your best work from someone if they know that it is leading to income for their family.
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