Do you every wish you could include the caveat "No Moms Allowed" to an agency agreement? Oh yeah, and add "Over Protective Dads", "Grandpas Who Bought Their First Home for $5,000", "Spoiled Sisters In Law" and "Know It All Best Friends"... Family and friends who accompany first time home buyers on their house hunt have good intentions, no doubt. But their lack of market knowledge, strong opinions and subjectivity can really kill a sale.
Well-meaning friends and relatives can offer so many conflicting opinions that it can cause confustion and frustration. First time home buyers start to second guess their instincts, become indecisive and reluctant, and rely too heavily on what everyone else thinks they should do.
It's a good idea for an agent to have a "Prep Talk" with clients before setting out on what can become an excruciating number of showings if things get out of control. Preparing your buyers for the process by giving them objective, informed and practical advice can prevent some of the common roadblocks.
One piece of advice that works well with first time buyers is to have them wait until they have narrowed their search down to three properties before bringing in the troops for a barrage of opinions. By the time they have narrowed it down, they have hopefully learned about their needs and wants, the realities of what their budget will buy, and their personal tastes. Also, at this point it may actually be helpful to hear what others think, as they may have experiences that could provide good insight.
By suggesting this method to buyers, you may also take a little pressure off of them by giving them a plan. It's hard to say "no" to Mom and Dad, but a simple statement, like the one below, can help ease any guilt and hard feelings and set the tone for the transaction:
"Jake and I are seeing properties this weekend. As soon as we have our top three, we will definitely need your help and opinion before making a decision."
First time home buyers in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, area should contact Wanda Tharp for expertise, experience and trustworthiness. Contact Wanda today at WandaTharp@CBHRealty.com or 319-361-2383.
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