How To Be A Great Real Estate Client

September 14, 2008 · Jean Joh

“How can I be a great client to my real estate agent?” Okay, this is probably not on the top ten list of Frequently Asked Questions…probably not even the top one hundred…I’ll admit it – I have NEVER in my real estate career been asked this question by a client. I have invested countless hours into preparing to be the best agent I can be – reading books and articles, attending classes and seminars, keeping on top of the inventory in the area – but I have yet to see a book called, “Being a Great Real Estate Client for Dummies” or the like. And so, I thought it would be an interesting exercise to turn the tables and talk a little about what it takes to be the type of client that a real estate agent would love to work with.

The first topic I would like to cover is, “Just say no…please!” Through my interactions with a wide range of people, I’ve quickly come to learn that there are basically three types of clients. The “yes’s,” the “no’s” and the “maybe’s.” The “yes’s” are clear – they are the ones that are clearly ready to buy and are willing to submit a good offer as soon as they see the “perfect” home. Of course, I love it when I meet such clients.

But contrary to what one might think, it is the “no’s”, not the “maybe’s,” that I prefer next. Why? Because the “no’s” clearly tell me that they are not ready or willing at this time to consider buying or selling a home and thus, give me the freedom to “move on.” Or they make it clear that they are not ready now but would like some information, which is easy enough for me to send automatically until the time is right.

It is the “maybe’s” that are the most difficult to deal with. While I appreciate the fact that some people don’t want to hurt my feelings, I would actually prefer it if people made it clear that they really don’t want to move right now or perhaps (heaven forbid!) that they don’t want to work with me in particular. Otherwise, I end up spending precious time away from my family, not eating or sleeping regularly, setting aside time for appointments that will not be kept in the end, calling and leaving messages that will never be returned, spending hours researching the inventory of homes in the area of interest, driving around to preview homes…you get the picture.

I know it’s a little strange to start off a “How to Be a Great Real Estate Client” series with a plea to not become one in the first place unless you really want to be, but this is where I will begin nonetheless. If you don’t feel ready to buy or sell a home in the near future, or if you are not very interested in the services I have to offer, please feel free to say so. I promise not to take it personally (unless that’s your intention) and not to go overboard trying to convince you otherwise. And if you ever change your mind, I’ll still be here and will be happy to be of help. So, please…just say no.

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