Buyers It’s Time to Communicate
You achieved that very coveted goal…getting your offer accepted by the sellers. The listing is pending on the MLS and you are on your way, heading to closing.
Now it’s get ready, get set, and be prepared to communicate. A lot!
Buyers are often surprised at how much communication there is in a real estate transaction.
The first several weeks after the contract is agreed on by both parties can be pretty intense. This can vary depending on the closing time frame agreed on, if you are a cash buyer or getting a loan, the general process in your state, and possible problems that may arise.
And some agents, and lenders, communicate more than others.
What communication method do you prefer?
I’ve found people vary in their communication preferences – it may be email, or text, Facebook messaging, or phone calls.
Some only want to text, others never do. Some check emails on their Smartphones, others have to be in front of a computer. While face-to-face is great, it’s often just not realistic, but it depends on the situation.
If your Realtor does not bring it up first, have a discussion with him/her about communication, preferences, and what you should expect. Of course you want to make sure to have your agent’s correct email address and cell phone, and they will need yours, too.
Be sure to also have contact information for other important people in the transaction who will also be communicating with you – your lender, escrow and title (depending on how things work in your state), attorney, etc.
Some buyers like to use their work email. I don’t recommend this for confidentiality reasons. Plus employers may frown on use of company email for personal reasons. Use gmail or something else.
Keep in mind that communication involves many issues – questions and answers (yours and your agent’s/lender’s), sharing documents, electronic signatures, and so much more. While you might prefer texts some matters are better addressed via email or on the phone.
Do you check your email often or regularly?
Not everyone does, but you should plan on doing this, perhaps even multiple times throughout the day. Not only is there a lot of information flowing, there are key deadlines in the contract, so timely communication, and reading/signing documents, is essential.
Your agent might text you to check your email for an important message or document that was sent, but don’t count on it. Better to check often so you don’t miss anything.
Communication is a 2-way street. You have a responsibility, as the buyer, to be a timely and effective communicator throughout your transaction. This involves responding to questions, providing information, reviewing and signing documents, and so much more. There are deadlines to meet, and perhaps problems to solve. There’s no room for delayed or poor communication.
Of course your lender, your agent, and other parties have responsibilities for the success of the transaction, and for communication, too. Be sure to stay in touch regularly to make sure things are on track and whenever there are questions or issues.
There have been a number of useful articles on communication on ActiveRain recently. I recommend you check out the following if you haven’t already seen them…or go back for a re-read.
Start Worrying, Details to Follow by Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400
When the Going Gets Tough Communicate MORE by John Meussner
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