Taking care of our clients is the most important aspect of our job. I fear sometimes agents forget or neglect this.
It is true different clients have different needs but I believe there are four elements which are crucial to all agent/client relationships.
I posted the following blog in November 2007 but it is one that I believe has a message that we all need to hear and read again and again.
Recently I commented on Jackie Peraza's post "A Photo is Worth a Thousand Words - Long Term" with the comment "Trust, what an important relationship that is with our clients but something that must be earned through respect, honesty and diligence".
Jackie responded back "It's a three legged stool; with one-third missing, the remaining two-thirds just aren't sufficient".
Jackie's words gave me a mental picture --the stool is trust and the three legs are respect, honesty and diligence.
Take away any one of the 3 legs and the stool (trust) collapses. 
So how do you build your stool of trust?
Leg 1 - Respect - I believe there must be mutual respect between client and agent in order for there to be a successful working relationship. To me that means
I must
- Listen to my client with my ears and my heart
- Respond to phone calls and emails promptly
- Communicate with them often, keeping them abreast of marketing plans, showings, feedback and changes in the market,
- Try to accommodate their schedules and needs
Leg 2 - Honesty - Our clients deserve the truth and I must
- Advise them of the true market value of their home
- Coach them of needed improvements to help make their home more appealing
- Explain all forms and contacts in a way they can understand
Leg 3 - Diligence - This means I must
- Have a thorough and proven market plan and follow through with it
- Check and recheck all forms and contracts to ensure accuracy
- Do a thorough and accurate market analysis prior to pricing the home/property
- Stay abreast of the market and know the area
- Put clients in touch with mortgage lenders and all professionals needed to complete the transaction
- Cooperate and work with other agents, lenders and attorneys
- Dress and conduct business in a professional manner
How is your 3 legged stool? Is it straight and sturdy or do one or more of the legs need some work and support?
Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor®, Onslow County Home Specialist 910 459 9189 Email Me
Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes
We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina
Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina
Cynthia--Great analogy! With this type of foundation your clients must really enjoy working with you!