The way you talk about your colleagues says more about you than it does about them.

There are about 5 local Realtors in my area that I just love to do business with.  There are nearly 500 in the area (down from 1400 four years ago), but this group of 5 are really special.  When we do a deal together we help each other all the way to the closing table.    It's great.

I was at one of my REO listings this week, but this time I was mowing the yard.  One my top 5 called to see if she could show it, and I was thrilled.  When she showed up with her clients she gave me a big hug, which I tried to decline because I was literally dripping with sweat.  Nasty!   But, it didn't impede her at all.  That's the kind of friendship we have.

Yesterday, I had an agent (not one of the 5) call to show one of my listings.  She was into her second or third sentence when she started running down another brokerage in the area.  With each jab I deflected the comment or simply stayed silent.  Sure, there are some brokerages I'd rather not work with, but it's my client's interest I have to be aware of and not mine.  So, I always try to set aside any reservations I have about a brokerage to get the deal done. 

Here are a few things I think we, as agents and brokers, need to do in relation to other offices and agents.

• If you have bad feelings against another office or agent - decide if it's really important.  If it is important, go to them and see what you can do to get it straightened out.  Holding anger and bitterness against someone else only hurts you.  They may not even know.  If they don't know, they are actually controlling your life through your thoughts.
  
•  Don't make derogatory remarks about other brokerages and agents to other colleagues.  You may be talking to an agent who has worked in that office, or one who has friends there.  Regardless, it's unprofessional and tacky.
  
•  Uphold the highest standards, and maybe you will inspire others to up their game.  
• Chose not to participate in the character assassination of other agents and brokers with loan officers, bankers or title companies, etc.
• Never speak to a client about another office or agent in a disparaging way. 
• Keep a positive attitude and say positive things about your colleagues and other brokers and offices.  It's good practice, and it might just help your attitude.
• Be a light!

You must be at least 18 years of age to acquire a Realtor's license in Virginia.  By that time in life, you should have overcome the tendency to sound like you're in junior high.  Set the highest professional standards and others will emulate you. 

********************************************************************************

Give me a call for all your real estate needs, and let's make something amazing happen. 

Mike Cooper @ Cornerstone Business Group, Inc., 888-722-6029

Real Estate Sales and Property Management

 

(Disclaimer:  All grammatical mistakes, punctuation breakdowns and misspellings are purely for your amusement and entertainment.  Feel free to cackle.)