What Do You Hear From Your Agent?
Of all the complaints real estate consumers voice, the loudest is probably that their agent never communicated with them once the house was listed. They ‘stuck a sign in the yard and we never heard from them again’. It’s hard to overcome this betrayal of trust.
Expectations are an important part of your relationship with your agent. Set them at your first meeting. Do you want weekly communication or to simply be informed about feedback from showings, offers, and a closing date? What’s your preferred method? A combination of phone, text and emails? Is it important to minimize work day interruptions and that dastardly game known as phone tag?
A consistent schedule solves many problems. Perhaps a check in on Mondays to go over weekend showings or open house feedback and Thursdays to do a run-down of the week’s activities and discuss the upcoming weekend schedule.
Allow for some flexibility. I know texting is easy, but it’s not practical for all updates. Realtors love to text but since they’re so frequently strapped into their cars, be prepared to wait a bit for a response. They’re not ignoring you. They’re attempting to get from A to B without raising their insurance rates. I like to schedule an occasional visit, as well. I want you to see my face and know I’m involved. Continue reading What Do You Hear From Your Agent?
Don’t Close the Door on Your Open House
Some things are blatantly obvious when preparing for an open house.
- The home should be spotless.
- Use higher wattage light bulbs.
- Pack as if you’re moving – you will be – and clear out closets, laundry rooms, cupboards, pantry, storage areas, and garage to make the spaces seem larger.
- Minimize clutter on table tops and counters in kitchen and baths.
- Kennel or crate animals, or, better yet, take them with you for the afternoon when possible.
- Maximize curb appeal.
- Make windows, mirrors and glass gleam.
- Let the sunshine in – open drapes and blinds.
- Remove any trip hazards.
- Lock up prescription medications (you just never know).
You want visitors to engage with the house – see themselves enjoying the features and comforts it provides. Of course, no list of Do’s would ever be complete without its accompanying list of Don’t’s such as: Continue reading Don’t Close the Door on Your Open House
