Sometimes,… having a drink with friends is a sobering experience.
A few weeks ago my wife and I went to dinner with some long time friends from another city and as one thing leads to another, the topic of real estate came up. Our friends had just been through a terrible experience with their local real estate sales representative. After a couple of drinks my friend’s wife posed the question “Why did you become a real estate sales representative and are you the same as all the rest?
You have to love responding to broad generalizations that are based on a single experience (NOT!). Did I mention that this was a sobering experience for me?
After selecting my words carefully, I decided to ask a challenging question…
What are the 5 things you disliked about that real estate sales representative?”
Without even taking time to think she responded eagerly:
- They always want you to lower your price to make their job easier
- They are only interested in the commission
- They put a sign in the ground and disappear
- They charge a fortune for doing nothing
- They have their office call instead of doing it themselves
Hmmmm… Being a real estate sales representative, I hate to hear complaints about my industry, but there are examples of below standard service in every industry. There are examples with accountants, truck drivers, fast food clerks, policemen, and of course real estate sales representatives.
After a long deep breath, I again choose my words carefully. Sales representative… “I could defend my industry, but let us assume that you ended up with a below standard real estate sales representation. It happens! Now let me ask you this…”
What are the 5 best things about a real estate sales representative that would have made it a better experience?
Hmmmm, this time from my friend, who had complained so easily ..
- Sell my house for a fair price.
- Explain why I should pay that much commission to sell my house.
- Show me examples of the advertising to be done for my house.
- Call me regularly to let me know what’s happening. .
- Use their expertise and resources after the sale, not just disappear.
Wouldn’t you like a great experience with your real estate sales representative?
Dave Airey
Sales Representative with Signature Service GMAC Real Estate
www.daveairey.ca
