Real estate is about more than homes.  Buyers and sellers aren't just buyers and sellers.  There's a human side to real estate.  Today I got to immerse myself in that side of it - and as always, it was extremely rewarding.

I spent today with the sellers of one of my listings.  The home is a great home but just needs some TLC and a makeover.  So far our buyers can't see past the cosmetic.  We got bids in for painting, carpet, minor fixes, everything.  And the sellers decided to have friends over and paint the interior themselves.  I decided to help too.  

Some may say that was going too far - exceeding my "duties" and devaluing my profession by becoming a mere handywoman.  It sure was a lot of work and I am stiff and sore all over!  

But it was great!  I really got to spend time with my clients and get to know them - and that's worth a lot to me.  On top of it, my listing and their home looks a lot fresher, updated, and rejuvenated - which I hope will help it sell faster and also give them a much nicer living space until then!

Some things I learned today:

I discovered a great breakfast joint that I'll have to try out next time!   If you're ever in Cheney (and of course, you should visit!), Try Gabby Jack's on the Main drag just to the South of the bank.  I didn't get to eat as I'd already eaten by the time of my invite down, but it sure did look YUMMY! And it's all home-made!

I spent a lot of time in a room full of paint fumes with their daughter - and discovered a smart and ambitious young woman who wants to become a biologist and study sharks!  How cool is that!



I also learned that super-tall ceilings may seem cool when you list a house - but they are a PAIN to paint.  Same for that gorgeous decorative wood trim....

So maybe I did more than the average Real Estate Agent - I spent 8 hours helping paint an entire house.  But I learned some neat things about the area, about the home, and about the folks in the home.  And you just can't beat that with a paint stick.  


Joel Weihe Real Estate Wichita KS
Joel Weihe  
 Realtor®
Txt/Cell: 316.833.2677


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6 Comments on The Human Side of Real Estate...

MAY
10
2008
187,485 Points 20 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor

I have done that too, mowed grass and cleaned houses.  It says what kind of person you are, you will go the extra mile.  Besides, think of all the great folks you met today!
9:26pm • #1
121,981 Points Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

That's terrific service. I bet these sellers wouldn't hesitate to refer you to their family and friends.
9:39pm • #2

This is great! Clients become friends - if they were not already. There's so many ways we can help: babysitting, helping them pack and clean, bring dinner when packing up...

Great reminder. Thank you so much!
9:50pm • #3
MAY
11
2008
227,294 Points 14 Featured Posts Called Shot Master

Audrey - Good to know it's not just me! My hubby things I'm nuts sometimes.

Jim - True, as long as they don't all expect me to paint the whole house!!  I may have a new hobby, LOL!

Jennifer - So very true.  Part of my view of our profession is to make real estate transactions less stressful and more fun.
9:03am • #4
MAY
18
2008

Going beyond the call of duty is a great way for client to remember you and get referrals because they will rave about how much you helped them.  I've done touch up painting, staging...bring items from my own house, and more.  My clients are so appreciative and they become a walking billboard for me.
Michele Reneau
8:18am • #5
227,294 Points 14 Featured Posts Called Shot Master

Michele - Thanks for the comment!  I've done similar.  Some think I'm the bomb because of it, but some have acted like the cleaning and fixing are part of my job and were very ungrateful!

If it gets her sold, I'm up for it!
9:47am • #6


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