*CAUTION* for mature Realtors/Readers Only.
Do not read to your significant others or newly licensed agents.
I'm going out on a limb here by grilling this Real Estate Advertisement.
This ad screams a loud message; it drives no value to the Advertising Broker or the Consumer. It is deceptive, outright degrading to our industry and is offensive to the intelligence of the home selling and buying public. It attracts an element of buyers and sellers I'd put on my "D "list of contacts.
The names and photos have been deleted or altered to protect the less than innocent. Check out the date of the newspaper copy. This was a summer publication and you can plainly see the snow in the home photo. Here's that detail oriented individual you'd allow to have sell your largest asset. The other promotions offered are self explanatory. I've deduced they're either business breaking practices or don't represent the entire intent of the offer. Notice that there's no mention of limitations, or terms and conditions footnoted. What impression of the Agent does this ad giving the reader? Is it one of honesty, credibility, professionalism, self worth, dedication?
There's nothing more harmful to our life in real estate then undermining our ability to do the job well by starving ourselves. Nothing will ensure being disrespected; others undervaluing our efforts, and effectively creating a low energy level by telling others (and ourselves) that we can be auctioned. Sold to the lowest bidder (so to speak) and hiring an Agent is equated to shopping for bargains at Walmart.
We go into battle in performing for our clients, we represent their best interests, and if we don't charge a fair fee for service then someone suffers. Most often it's the client who receives cut rate performance and enthusiasm from us.
If you agree with me, please comment below or re-blog this message to your community. Better yet, write your own ideas and insights on this topic and share them with us. I know other AR members that can express these concerns better than I can. Let's raise the bar and put some dignity back in this industry.
I know my local Real Estate Board, our governing council, and the nice folks policing the Federal Competition Act might not take kindly to these remarks, but too bad. I'm not suggesting we fix prices or fees, nor am I suggesting that we restrict the trade practices of certain individuals. All I'm saying is let's give the consumer the absolute best. The best of us, the best advice, the best efforts, the best energy, the best marketing, the best, the best, the best....
It's time to get serious, get selective, get honest with ourselves, or get out of this business.
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