We look at a lot of houses and condos and talk to Buyers, Sellers and real estate agents everyday. Here’s a random collection of stuff I just don’t understand:
- If you’re trying to sell your house, why you would stay home during a showing, chanting religious chants the whole time? Do you really think that will help a Buyer be comfortable in your house?
- Why do agents think their glamour photos need to be on their business cards and on every piece of marketing? Can you think of any other professional who does this? And why do so many of them hold a phone in their photos – are they really that busy that they couldn’t put it down?
- Why would a Seller leave out sex toys and drugs while their property is being shown? Do they think the smell of marijuana will make my Buyers want to put in an offer? (Actually, on second thought maybe they’re on to something…)
- Why do agents write ‘Show and Sell’ on their MLS listings? Do they really think that will motivate me more to sell their property? What does that even mean?
- If you’re selling your house, why would you make it difficult for my Buyers to see it? Restricting showings to between 2-4 during weekdays while they’re at work isn’t exactly convenient.
- Why do people actually believe the real estate agent who knocks on their door or cold calls them and tells them they have a Buyer for their home? It’s not true 99% of the time.
- Why do some of my Buyers think I’m hiding properties from them? I know it’s fun to surf the web, but that house you want to see was sold a year ago and I don’t know why it’s still on that agent’s website. It’s not for sale.
- Why do some Buyers think it’s a good idea to deal with the listing agent? They represent the other guy – not you. Their job is to get a good deal for the Seller, not the Buyer.
- Why don’t people read what they sign? If you’re about to commit to spending half a million dollars, you might want to take the time to read what you’re signing – it’s not like it’s the 98-page iTunes terms and conditions.
- Why do some people lie to their agents? We’re on your side.
Ok, writing this list was cathartic – this may just become a regular blog feature.
Deidre says:
You are right on with all these comments, I had a great laugh reading them.