What should we do if we can’t make a showing appointment

Will, why the two hour showing window?  In our market, an hour is understood, but when possible I try to schedule for a half hour time slot.  I recently had a seller who had to have a dog walker come and take the big barking dog out for showings if the seller was at work.  In my showing instructions, I required a half hour window of time, so my client wasn't paying her dog walker for unnecessary time.  I agree with the comments, that not calling the listing agent or showing service is very unprofessional and inconsiderate to the seller. 

There are some really rude selling agents out there. There is no excuse for not calling to cancel a showing, period!

Hi Will,  You are so preaching to the choir here.  Every time I read a post about why people hold us in such low esteem I can't hrlp but think of crap like this !   Oughta be a law !!!

Hello Will,

I hope Belinda blasted that other agent with both barrels.

~Jack

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I call and let them know.  i also keep them updated if we are running late.

Will:

What happened to common courtesy?  Of course you call and tell the showing service or the agent that you are running late, or your client did not show up or whatever. 

It all comes down to professionalism - do you do the right thing and inform someone that your buyers flaked out on you or do you just blow it off. Unfortunately, too many agents skip appointments and don't think twice about it. If you know that the property is vacant, that's one thing, but when people are living in the home, that's pretty unprofessional.

Hi Will,

Not just professionalism but common courtesy demands communication when there is a change in plan. Else the behaviour is rude and disrespectful. Not because someone has a license does it mean they are a professional.

Cheers.

Will - It's unacceptable not to let a seller know if you can't make or if the buyer changes their mind.  It's not that hard.

great post, one of my greatest frustrations, prospects that swear they will be there and never show up and never answer their phone when you call to see if they are coming.  I wish the whole real estate community would get behind the idea of a showing deposit that would only be refunded if they show up and tour the home, and if they don't then it gets split between the seller and the showing agent.

Will, congratulations on your FEATURED post. It is a very inconsiderate action of the showing agent especially the home is occupied. I hope you have a contract, quick smooth closing and no more showing problem.

I always call to cancel.  It is very inconsiderate not to do so.

When we act unprofessionally it is hard to complain that the generally public does not hold Realtors in high esteem. I know I am preaching to the choir, but courtesy and common sense goes a long ways. If you can’t show up for your appointment with your client you would surely call. It is mandatory to do the same if you will not be keeping a showing appointment.

I have had this happen to clients.  There really isn't a better way to irritate them unless it's not to remove muddy shoes.

Will,  A little courtesy goes along way.  These agents fail to realize that if, and when the reschedule, they will be remembered in a negative light.  If there were a multiple offer situation, the sellers would likely not accept their offer!

When in doubt, communication is always the best answer. It it easy to make a phone call, even if it's after hours for this purpose.

It is amazing that we have the best phone system in the world. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean that the users are smart or courteous.