I agree.  It seems like people do everything that they can to avoid using a realtor.  It is about relationship building, not being pushy and hard sell.

UGH!  I sware the frustration.  I think our Realtor organization needs to do some serious soul-searching, as do states with their licensing laws.  Last year, over 400,000 Realtors DIDN'T SELL A SINGLE HOME.  And we wonder why people lie, cheat, and steal to get business!  Now I'm going to have to write a blog about this!

Maybe we should start a support group :)  A creative brainstorming/motivational type deal?

Wow I must admit I have never heard this comparison yet.  God help us all if we are now being compared to "the used car salesman".  Unfortunately, the connotations that come with that description happen to be extremely negative.  In general I believe the general public is smart enough to know a deal when they see one.  It would be difficult at best for us (Agents) to add any hidden costs to the transaction like a used car salesman can.  If added costs are being done we have no one to blame but the Loan Officers, unless of course, as is the case now most of the time, the Loan Officer is yourself.  The good faith estimate takes care of most misconceptions prior to a closing....so let's give the public just a tad more credit and hope that they can see the grave difference between a Realtor and a "Used car salesmen"?  While we both work on commission, Realtors commissions are right in front of you.  The "used car salesmen" adds his commission to the price and/or the monthly payments and that is why they have the bad rap they have!

I used to sell cars in a past life, and I think there are those who are very honerable. I have also meet some Realtors who are worse than any carman. I am not trying to start a battle over which is a more honerable trade,but I think there are good realtors and good car salespeople. I do not worry about stero-typing people-I have too much else to do. Happy selling.

Greg Hampton

Tonya,

I couldn't agree more.  Just be glad there are bad agents out there so that you look good by comparison.  That's how I look at it.

PS - I think it is hysterical that your name is Kirkland and you work in Mill Creek. 

I have heard Realtors compared to many things.  My favorite is that Realtors are underpaid lawyers.  We guide our clients through one of the most significant legal transactions many people will face in their lifetime, and assume a great deal of personal liability in the process.  Your right, connecting with our clients is the only way for them to truly see the value that we offer.

There will always be unscrupulous people in any profession. And there will always be those that put the almighty dollar ahead of everything else. Unfortunately ethical and professional people who put their client's needs ahead of theirs end up paying the price for those few. It is even more unfortunate that those who are unethical get the splashy headlines and media attention and therefore set the image.