I’ve always said, “I answer my phone.” And for the most part, I do. Buyers don’t wait, sellers don’t wait, and real estate rarely rewards voicemail ping-pong. But when my caller ID flashes “Spam Risk,” even I pause for a split second. Is it really spam… or is it the perfect buyer calling about the house I just put back on the market?
Here’s the truth: you can’t be 100% sure. Many spam calls are exactly that. SPAM. They want to send me "buyers "and "sellers" extended car warranties, mystery investments, or someone wanting to “help” me improve my career by buying their leads. But occasionally, a legitimate call can wear the ugly “Spam Risk” label. An out-of-country cell phone. A Google Voice number. A relocated buyer driving through the neighborhood who found my sign online. Technology tries to protect us… but it’s not perfect.
So, here’s my solution. I don’t automatically delete. And I don’t feel guilty for letting it roll to voicemail. Serious buyers leave messages. They say, “Hi Margaret, I saw your listing on Seven Mile…” or “We’re interested in Woodcrest…” Real people identify themselves. Scammers rarely bother. Voicemail has quietly become my assistant. And later, I can verify the number to see if is legit. 
Do I still answer my phone? Yes. But I also answer wisely. Because missing the right call would bother me more than ignoring the wrong one. In real estate and in life, it’s not about reacting fast to everything. It’s about responding smart to the right things.
That small “Spam Risk” notification? It serves as a reminder that even when I pick up my phone… I still have the right to think for myself.
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