Timing is EVERYTHING in real estate!
Time plays SUCH an important role in being successful at real estate. Everyone's sense of time is their own. That's a given. Some are patient, some put you behind the eight-ball because they want things done yesterday.
There are many parts of the transactions that we follow that we cannot control when it comes to the timing of signatures, scheduling, oh MY...there are plans in place to make this a bit easier, like Docusign (electronic signature program that has saved my bacon), but there are still many areas that you want to reign in, and yet there are too many players and you're at the mercy of all of them. Are you a good juggler??
First rule of thumb: don't get impatient and frustrated! Stay focused.
Second rule of thumb: don't take it personally! Keep a modicum of professionalism (sometimes that takes a deep breath and stepping away from the computer, the person, the phone call!)
Third rule of thumb: do your best to keep everyone updated with timely communication....it may not appease some, but at least you've kept them informed.
Right now, in our area I am experiencing a lack of appraisers being available in a timely manner to get their appraisals done. What do I need to do? I need to forewarn any prospective buyers, AND my sellers that we ought to expect at least a 60 day close. That way you're not chasing signatures for extensions to stay in contract. (I loathe the paperwork!) And if it closes early, then you look like a hero/heroine!
Read your clients and act accordingly. Some people make it their job to worry about timelines. My husband's that way. He runs a large private EMS business, and gosh, timing is EVERYTHING when it is a life-and-death situation!!! I get it. But, I also know that not every business works like that. Things happen. People get sick or go on vacation or there's something that's urgent that comes up and you get put to the back-of-the-line. Most people will give you the benefit of the doubt if you keep them in the loop.
Timing is all relative. Your minute may be someone else's 40 seconds, so pay attention, watch for those nuances that clients offer and if they need to have something done sooner than is feasible, see around the corners and assuage them before there is an issue!
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