A Snake Rattles Before It Bites You ~ Client Decisions

Ouch.  This is a good analogy.  We are usually warned before we step into the snakes nest.  

It's funny how people expect us to guarantee so many things. For example, we've heard, "I can build on this right?" It appears as if you can on paper, however, you must do your due diligence with the county. Remember too, building requirements are in constant flux. We can't guarantee anything, except our excellent customer service. 

Amen! In other words Gary Woltal, be the professional your client hired! 

I always find it interesting how many people have a difficult time making decisions. A list of pros and cons is definitely a good step.

Not exactly the same thing, but I remember in the car business, training salesman, I would tell them "anything you say other than "no" will be considered a "maybe", or even a "yes" to a customer's request.  If they ask for something extra and you say "I'll try" or "I'll see what I can do" it will come back to bite you.

Don't try to avoid the negative or soften the blow. Just say NO.  Then they can't come back later, which they usually do, saying "the salesman said it would be included....."

I'm fortunate because my clients don't listen to me anyways!  :-)

Gary-Great analogy. Once bitten you wouldn't forget it for sure.

If you start making decisions for them they will continue to ask what would you do

Leading them there is sometimes what they need. We are the expert and they are looking for guidance. Get them to "yes". There are those who don't trust their own decisions, vascillating all over the place, taking copious amounts of time until the deal goes sour. Real estate is also TIME SENSITIVE. That has to be taken into consideration.

I really liked what Sharon Tara said--something definitive in "no"...like when asked will you lower your commission? because a seller isn't making as much money as they would like. 

I am probably one of the few agents (buyer's) that discusses my E & O insurance with clients before they hire me.  My integrity demands I stand behind my words.  Great blog Gary Woltal 

Well your title got my attention. The post speaks loudly and I know what you mean about the future bite. I do explain to my clients that I can't make that (whatever that decision is) for them. Most of them really get it. 

Hmm, very interesting. I believe I am guilty as charged... Will have to sleep on this. My daughter sometimes tells me that I am more a social worker, than an agent... Maybe she has a point :)