Remember that mega popular song by Janet Jackson, "What have you done for me, lately"? Do you feel like you should be belting out a karaoke version of that; as it relates to your Realtor?
This poses a good question...what exactly should you expect from your Real Estate Agent? And, more importantly; have you been receiving it?
Well, at the very least a return phone call by the end of the business day; and at optimum service, a pro-active email or text, every few days. Even if it's just to tell you..."nothing is new, all is still good and I just wanted to say, hi". I find it pathetically sad when I speak with new clients who have fired their agents, and share their stories, that they often wouldn't hear from their sales professional for several weeks! Huh? Whether you're making a $100,000 purchase or a million dollar buy; personally, if it was me, and that was my experience; I'da moved on to a high decibel version of Michael Jackson's "Scream" by now!
So, what should you expect
So, what should you expect between "I forgot your name, after I wrote the contract", and "I'm just making my 20 minute check in call"?
To begin, education is a good step. Most first-time home buyers, or folks that haven't had a home in years, aren't sure how to build a bridge from visiting the real estate office, to visiting the title office for closing. Here's the part that kills me...clients think they have to have the hammer and nails to do it, themselves. What?!!! At no point, should you ever feel concerned you are asking too many questions. And, if you ever do, Donald Trump's catch phrase "YOU"RE FIRED" will suffice. A good Realtor will expect you to have many questions; and, be happy to help you through the process. Remember, there are no dumb questions.
My personal style is simplified and visual. When I say simplified, I am not indicating that my clients are not wonderfully intelligent people; but, hey...when you don't know something, you don't know it. I always think when I'm learning something new; get me from point A to point B, in the most remedial way, and we're golden!
6 simple service points
Great...yah, yah, yah....I still haven't really answered the question, specifically; what should I expect from my Realtor.
Here ya go...
1. A visit, to sit down and discuss the process of buying and/or selling a home. This conversation should include every aspect of what will happen from the visit you are currently having; until the minute they hand you your new house keys.
2. Various options to stay in contact your agent; ie: email, cell, office number, etc.
3. A commitment of time, in which they will return your calls. I find you can plan on failing, if you fail to plan. As in any good relationship; you have to lay the ground work of expectations, as well as, the no-nos in order to keep the relationship healthy. Assumptions. Bad.
4. Your Realtor will be aware of your time lines for inspections, reports, contract addendums, and so on. These time lines are critical; because; if you miss them, that home is yours now (regardless of what's on the inspection). #moneypit #theburbs
5. Granted your Realtor is not your lender; however, it wouldn't hurt your Realtor to reach out to your lender, and make an introduction. My MO as a real estate salesperson, is keep my hand in the cookie jar. Honestly, I don't care if the loan officer is offended that I call often to check on things. Yes, there is borderline obnoxiousness; but, that's not what we're talking about. In example, if you are a music producer (let's just go with that theme in this blog) and your son, daughter or best friend just got a contract with a major record label, but had no idea what any of being "signed" meant; would you lean back and watch at a distance, or keep an eye on it, to make sure they were protected? Get it? Exactly. So, heck ya...contact with the lender should be expected.
6. Even I don't fully understand the title company and what they do; but, they're awesome! In my mind, they are a company operated by The Great and Powerful Oz. I drop the check off to open your escrow account; and, 2 and half weeks later, they call to say it's magically clear and insured. Lol. Well, okay, I might know a little bit more. Basically, the title company makes sure there is nothing on the title that is an issue. For instance, a lien placed on the property, a city, state or government restriction, flood zones, etc. But, yes...your Realtor, does need to let you know, where, when and who is the title company you've chosen.
Comprehension vs Practice
Trust me when I tell you, there is a whole lot more involved than these 6 points, noted. However, the motive was to let you know, what you should expect from your Realtor. Regardless, of how busy your Realtor is (that is never a good excuse) contact is essential. If we are doing our job well, and we truly understand the mindset of a first-time or re-entry home buyer; then we comprehend the need for communication. We comprehend it, and we practice it.
If you find yourself humming along to Janet's little tune, after having left the 40th voicemail message in 10 days...it's time. Like that Disney Frozen chick sang..."Let it Go"! It's your cash, it's your home, and it's your journey. Ask away. Ask away. It's all okay!
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