Clients Don't Need Agents to See Properties Anymore??

Showings with NO Agent

This Can't Be Good!

I was reading an article about a new service available in Michigan where Buyers are able to gain access to view homes without the use of an Agent. My thoughts as I was reading the article were hmmmmm. Now I am definitely all for advancements in our field that will help us do our jobs better, easier and more efficient but I think this new service is taking us in the wrong direction.

First, let's discuss the safety issues in allowing Buyers to enter homes without an Agent. The service asks to see a photo ID and requests the prospects Facebook ID via video chat. I'm not sure how credible someone's Facebook ID is, but this is a way they are verifying Buyers identity. If I were a Seller I don't think I would feel comfortable with Buyers roaming around in my home without an Agent simply because they showed their ID and gave their Facebook name.

Second, with the use of advanced technology many Buyers/Sellers are already asking why do they need an Agent in the first place! Most Buyers can do most of their research online before even calling an Agent. This will just add another layer that allows prospects to get further away from using a professional. The services along with our experience we provide to our clients can be invaluable. If prospects don't have to utilize an Agent to see a home, our value as Realtor's begins to dwindle even more.

Let me also add, Realtor's are held to a higher standard than the general public and we have a personal responsibility to uphold the code of ethics. Unfortunately, the Buyer/Sellers we serve are not bound by the same code, therefore allowing strangers off the street to enter your clients home in my opinion is hazardous to the safety of the Sellers and other Agents who cross paths with Buyers who have acquired codes through a website.

I'm really hoping the industry is not going in this direction, the thought is pretty scary!!!!

For more information on this service, check out this article: http://www.inman.com/2015/10/05/buyers-using-ziptours-to-get-lockbox-codes-tour-listings-without-agents-present/?utm_source=20151017&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=weeklyheadlines

Tabitha Rector-Richardson
Broker, REALTOR®

email: info@premierhomesmd.com
web: www.PremierHomesMD.com

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