Are You a Serious Real Estate Agent?

With real estate markets slowing down the last few years, a large number of real estate agents are cutting way too many corners.

Example #1:  All of my listings have electronic lock boxes on them.  A growing number of agents every week ask for 1-day codes, because they did not renew their electronic keys.  The number one reason, it costs too much.

Example #3:  Ok you are going to ask where example #2 is.  I cut it out to save money. (It's a joke, don't e-mail me)  Example: Agents are not only cutting their personal marketing dollars but that for their listings.  If you are going to list someone's home for sale it is flat wrong to cut back on the marketing of that home.  That is what they are paying you to do.  This may seem harsh, but find another line of work if you can't do this right.  You are causing harm to your clients and our industry.

Example #4:  Many agents are cutting back on education.  If there was ever a time you need training it is in a changing market.  If you can't afford CRS classes, spend more time on Active Rain and other similar venues, read industry publications, attend local meeting.  There are many alternative ways to stay on top of your game.  Tight money is no excuse for not knowing your business.  You will find if you can scrape the money together for CRS and similar courses they will make you money.

Example #5:  Agents are not answering the phone or returning messages in a timely manner.  Many are working another job.  If you are representing a client you need to represent them.  No one is too busy to check their voice mail and e-mail a few times a day.  If you are, get someone to do it for you.

The bottom line; this is a business.  If you want to be successful you have to treat it like a business.  If you are forced to cut back, be sure you are not cutting back at your client's expense.  If you not doing this full time and no longer can give full service team up with someone.  If you can't afford seminars, classes and conventions, use alternative sources to stay informed and trained.

In a changing market you have to get better, not sloppier; to be successful and to fill your obligations to your clients. 

Before you start attacking me to justify bad service and not keeping educated; just remember, I am walking in your moccasins.

During this slow market I was forced to increase both my education and marketing.  I have added and improved services to my clients, while tightening my belt everywhere else.  (A lesson our government could sure use.)