“Do no harm” - the rule for doctors, can also apply to us as brokers. Our clients trust that the words we use to describe their property will advance their cause, and never hinder them.
Consider the phrase: “As is”. It could mean many things, none of which are positive. And then there is the underlying scare factor that using that phrase engenders. (“What are the owners trying to hide??”) That subtext is often assumed by the buyer, even if it is wholly erroneous. The broker might just as well lead off with the ominous phrase “Caveat Emptor”. That is likely the interpretation of the wary, possibly inexperienced buyer to the phrase “As is”.
Consider this scenario: A fine little estate home is owned by far off heirs, who can’t feature hiring a contractor, and they haven’t seen the house in years. There may be nothing the least bit negative about the home. Inadvertantly, the broker may repel buyers with those nerve-wracking little words: “As is”.
There is plenty of opportunity in the process of entertaining a buyer’s interest to explore the context of the sale. There is time for discussions regarding the motivation and potential responses of the seller to condition issues.
Job one is to encourage folks to experience the property, and hopefully fall in love. A climate of fear is not the best context for courting a mate for a home. So here is to words, carefully chosen, to help our clients to their goals.
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