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Feast and Famine

By
Services for Real Estate Pros with Jack of Administrative Trades

FEAST and FAMINE

 

Getting the help you need in good times and in bad.

 

Well, we can all agree that the economy, the real estate market and our personal lives are in constant change.Sometimes, we are on our feet, financially stable with everything we need and want.Other times, despite our best efforts, life throws us a series of curve balls and change-ups we never expected or prepared for.

 

There are great salesmen who want to be real estate agents, and there are those that just want to help. This is why administrative assistants are here.We are independent contractors, and like real estate agents, we understand the ebb and flow of a business that has times of prosperity and times of want.It is important that find an assistant who sees your vision.When you develop a business relationship with your assistant, you might be surprised to find that he or she is willing to work with you in tough times. You’ve probably told your buyers the same thing that I am going to tell you: it never hurts to ask.

 

Itemized Tasks:This is a great option for those who need tasks done that are either not available in a package, or you just need two or three things accomplished that you don’t have time for.Usually, it is a bit more expensive per task or hour than a package or retainer, but you do have the ability to get some “to do’s” checked off without paying for services you may not need.

 

Customized Packages:If you have a list of things to do and most of the services are not offered in a pretty package through your assistant, get your list of things to do, call your assistant and ask for a customized package!There is no point in paying for services that you don’t need.Your assistant will most likely offer you a package that fits your needs without the “itemized” cost of one or two individual tasks.

 

Delayed Payment Plans:Ah, I think this one is my favorite.What if you could get the help now and pay for the help later!No, I am not suggesting you pull out your credit card.Your virtual assistant may have payment plans available.Some offer the option to pay for the service in 6 months or your next closing, whichever comes first.

 

Assistants love REFFERALS too!: Do you have an assistant that does a great job?Tell someone about it! Get a few business cards from your assistant and spread the word.You may receive a discount, referral fee or a combination of both in appreciation.

Comments (2)

Jane & Garry Smith
Coldwell Banker Realty - Portland, ME
ABR, GRI, Realtors - Portland, ME - (207) 253-3195
Jacinda, we greatly appreciate our administrative assistants and they mean all the difference between a good day and a bad day, a happy client versus a dissatisfied client, etc. BTW, I am sitting next to a collegue named David Shedd here at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage-- are you related? Jane
Jan 18, 2013 12:45 AM
Jacinda Shedd
Jack of Administrative Trades - Columbus, GA

Jane:

I am so glad you see the great value of having someone help you grow your business!  I don't think we are realted.  My husband had a brother named David, but he passed away.  But, my husband will tell you, "Anyone with the last name Shedd has to be AWESOME!  It's in our blood." Ha!  So maybe somewhere down the line they are!

Jan 22, 2013 10:57 PM