Which way to turn if you're a Realtor?

I think to a degree you are right.  BUT just this week I had two instances that showed all is not lost. Two different clients I have been working with have found properties where they stopped to look and were approached by an agent. In  cases they turned down the offer of representation and stated they were working with me. I wrote one contract yesterday and will write the other tomorrow. All is not lost there are still people who appreciate what we do.

to answer your first question.    Yes.   

Are you reading my mind? In markets like todays, when we obviously have too much time on our hands to ask ourselves these questions, I have to only believe that things will turn around and meanwhile we must prepare ourselves to be ready! We must educate ourselves, the public and our clients. The internet is an amazing tool but it will not, in my opinion, replace the human interaction that is required for such an emotional transaction as the sale or purchase of a home.

Bring on the old days when we were all too busy listing and selling that we didn't have time to ask ourselves these questions- as valid as they are!

In what other part of the country are things better?

I think a lot of what you're saying is correct.  These are different times.  Not just in real estate but in our society in general.  When was the last time any of us had great customer service anywhere?  Lack of it hardens folks.  They expect to be mistreated and in return they are suspicious, cold, and feel the world is out to get them.

All the more reason to be a standout agent.  We have to be the half-glass full person to survive.  The real estate cycle is a different matter...but up or down we have to be the cream that rises.  Thanks!

Before the internet, we had the coffee room, the watercooler and happy hour for networking.

Don't forget the MLS book, I just can't imagine going back to that.

Here are some stats from the MOrtgage Industry in Oregon

July 2007 - 15000 Loan officers

May 2008 -7000 Loan officers

Aug 2008- 4300 Loan officers

And 40% of those 4300 are out of state Loan officers who have their license in Oregon as well.

Here's the kicker. Only 1 in 7 Loan officers (of that 4300) do more than 1.5 laons per month...that's scary.

I do 7-10 loans a month...I can't imagine living off of 1.5 loans a month.

So, I cansee how some realtors may be getting out of the business..just like Most of the loan officers in my area have.

Theresa- I think it is what you make of it. We have flourished in the worst market ever. I too, have been an agent for many years and was selling real estate with Jimmy Carter's interest rates. I wrote a post that was featured last week that was about this very subject. If you are running a business you must always be looking for the next open door in your business. You must move with the markets. Look where there is money made or about to be made and make your move to that sector, for us that was not just to remain in the luxury market which is not effected as much and then short sales. We are so busy that we are expanding our hiring. In every location, every market there is an opportunity for you to flourish in your back yard in real estate.

Theresa - I agree!  It's a different market and we need to sell differently for this market!  Thankd for bringing this forward.  You are a keeper, Professional, Hard Working, Dependable!  It's always a pleasure to deal with a great agent!