When a consumer finds your blog and contacts you about listing their home, it's always a compliment.  But sometimes that consumer owns property outside the immediate area of your office and focus area.  How would you handle this situation?

Over the years, I've known many agents who would say "No, refer it to another agent!"  And so, I ask, "Where do you come down in this debate?" 

For me, it boils down to this:  "Can I help these sellers achieve their goals while achieving mine?"  If I can't do both, I'll refer the lead.

I'm faced with this question right now, having recently received a lead via the ActiveRain "contact" button for a potential listing in Linthicum Heights, Maryland.  The deciding factor for both the seller and me in determining whether to partner for the sale of their home is, I think, the one that brought us together in the first place.

They believe the most likely purchaser for their home is a relocating home buyer with a new job at Northrop Grumman, Fort Meade or BWI.  That's exactly who I have been targeting with much of my marketing and blogging.  This older home on an acre plus lot will appeal to a completely different buyer than the planned subdivision homes in and near the Crofton area, although the price is about the same.

It's not a perfect match for either of us, but I think it's a very good one.  They have a home I can sell, and I have the expertise and experience to get it done for them.  This situation DOES fit my litmus test:  I can help these sellers achieve their goals while achieving mine. 

Margaret Woda is a licensed Associate Broker in the Washington, D.C. - Baltimore - Annapolis area.  She specializes in Anne Arundel, Howard and Prince George's Counties, Maryland, including Fort Meade, Andrews AFB, and the U.S. Naval Academy.  If you enjoyed reading this post, check out Focus On Crofton and Your Online Relocation Package for Anne Arundel County.