A few weeks back, I got a call from a friend / client of mine. I'm listing his home for sale and he called on the phone to talk about the listing and the sales process. I could also tell that something else was on his mind and he really needed to talk. After discussing the sale of his house, he finally blurted out "I'm going to use "Joan" (name changed to protect the innocent) to buy my next condo". I was honestly taken aback a bit because he was buying the condo that I found for him a few months back.
But, after talking to him a bit more, I could tell that it was a very difficult decision for him. He felt loyalty to me but also wanted to support his girlfriend. After letting him talk in one big sentence on how it was the right thing to do and that he didn't want it to effect our friendship, yadda, yadda, yadda - I finally cut him off and said "It's fine - I understand and I'll still let you buy me a beer next time we're out".
I work with many friends who are my clients. I also work with many clients who ultimately become friends. I know this can be a bit sticky situation but it's unfortunately the nature of the beast when it comes to working in real estate. Buying and/or selling a home is usually the largest purchase one will make and can be a very emotional and personal process. I don't just help clients buy a house but more importantly help them find a home to raisetheir families. It's a very rewarding process for me.
Because of the professional and personal entwining, I always tell my clients that if they want to use another Realtor to represent them, it won't hurt my feelings. My real estate business is built upon professionalism. You should use me as a Realtor because I bring a good understanding of the real estate market, consider myself a good practioner at my trade and work my butt to represent my clients. I never want a client because we're freinds or they feel obligated to use me as a Realtor.
I would love to hear back on what you think about this post.
Deepak
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