New rules for people who leave messages: Stop answering like you’re avoiding the bill collectors

This new rule is going to apply to the general real estate consumer public, as well as agents/brokers. My voicemail is very detailed, so when you call my office or cellphone, you’re know exactly who you’ve reached. I’m also very detailed when I leave messages for people, so that they know exactly who called and for what reason.

So am I wrong when I  get annoyed by people who ask me to contact them, but want to screen my call first? It’s not like I don’t introduce myself first (“Hello, this is Raquel from RE/MAX calling for…”). I cringe to think about all the time I’ve wasted being screened only to find out that I’m speaking to the person I’m looking for.

It’s not just consumers who have this bad habit, it’s agents and brokers as well. My suggestion to the professionals is if you don’t like answering the phone, then leave this business.

The new rule is this: When I return someone’s call or inquiry, and they start acting like they’re avoiding the bill collector, I’m going to excuse myself and hang up.  No exceptions.  I’ll save myself time and frustration, and only work with clients and agents who are serious.

Have a great day, and thanks for stopping by to read my blog!

How to tell that a real estate agent is clueless

I just got off the phone with a listing agent representing a property one of my clients made an offer on. The property is overpriced by about $25K, and has been on the market for over 200 days. My clients made an offer that is in line with comps that are less than two months old. The buyers are requesting seller assist of 6% in their offer. Here’s how the conversation went:

CA: Your client is asking for 6% seller assist? I heard that didn’t exist anymore!

Me: What do you mean?

CA: Last I heard, banks don’t allow 6% seller assist.

Me: Really? Every bank that I’ve been dealing with allows 6% seller assist with FHA loans.

CA: Well, I heard it was going to be changed.

Me: Well, yeah, FHA makes lots of annoucements for future plans, but nothing has been changed yet.

CA: Well, the seller can’t accept your client’s offer because they owe money on the house, and don’t have the cash to bring to settlement.

Me: Can’t they just do a shortsale?

CA: What would be the point? The seller can just sell it for more than what is owed and not have to bring cash to the table.

Me: Since the comps for houses right next door are for XXX, that’s why my client made that offer.

CA: Well, the seller’s counter is ($2K less than the asking price).

So, you have an agent with a property that has been on the market for over 200 days and is overpriced. She has no idea what kind of financing is available for potential buyers, and doesn’t think the seller should do a shortsale because all they have to do is find a buyer who’s willing to pay more.

When choosing a real estate agent to sell your home, make sure they’re knowledgeable about the market, and know how to help buyers buy your home.

Funny client phone calls

Just one more story that proves I have the funniest clients, ever.

I had an appointment for 3pm this afternoon to meet with a seller client. I called him about 9am to confirm the appointment. I thought I woke him up, but we had a quick conversation, and agreed that meeting at 3pm is fine.

Fast forward to 1:3opm, my client calls me and this is was the conversation:

Client: Did we talk this morning?

Me: Um, yes?

Client: What did we talk about?

Me: I called you to confirm our appointment for this afternoon?

Client: Really? Cause I don’t remember a word we said (starts laughing)

Me: Oh, well, sorry for waking you up. Are we still good for this afternoon?

Client: Yeah, nice talking to you (keeps laughing)

My clients are the best :-)