Part of what I love about Agent Genius, the contributors, the commenters and the rest of the active online real estate community is I have a sense of trust and camaraderie. This is my sanctuary when I need hope for this industry.
Unfortunately, over the last couple of weeks, I have experienced three instances of “transparency” that make me loathe this industry.
I’m Sorry, But Not Really…
Me: I’m looking to buy a place to move my mom into due to an unexpected death in the family.
REALTOR: I’m sorry to hear that. Have you found someone to list her current house?
Good job! You said you’re sorry! I came into your showroom to give you business, yet your first reaction was to ask for MORE business! If you had just chatted with me and shown me your demo units, you could have probably found a more appropriate time to ask about listing her current house. As it was, your greed and lack of compassion were what came through most. If I were moving to Austin, without a doubt Lani and Benn would have to be my representation. Do a search for “Help” on RE Revealed to see how much they care and help the community they are in. Many of you do the same. Supposedly that’s a common trait of Gen Y, we like to give our money and time and we respond well to others who do the same.
It’s Not So Bad Being Trendy
REALTOR (to employee of energy efficiency non-profit): I don’t really want to know all of this green stuff, I just want to be able to put it on my marketing so it looks like I do, could you create some catch-phrases for me?
Neat! You care about the environment! Could you tell me about solar power, non-VOC paint, Energy Star or rebates for energy improvements? No? But it’s all over your marketing materials that you’re a pro at this. Oh, I need to call someone else. So tell me again, why is this all over your marketing materials if you know nothing about it? Oh, “green” is trendy and you were just looking to capitalize on that. So you lied to me. Next.
I’m Super Busy…But Not Too Busy For Your Referrals!
LENDER (via email): Sorry it’s taken me so long to get back to you, I’ve been super busy lately. Scan to email signature. Oh, by the way, I’m never too busy for your referrals!
Okay, I understand that people get busy, so no problem. All the info here looks good, you answered my questions…here’s your contact information at the bottom…and POW…the gratuitous request to pilfer my address book, complete with the statement that you’re never too busy. So you were too busy to get back to me in a timely manner, but you can always make time for my friends. If you know they’re better than me, shouldn’t you know their contact information too?
Was This Just A Rant?
No, not at all. Yes, I wanted to vent a little, but please take a look at your marketing and your various forms of communication. If you, a business partner or someone in your office is guilty of any of these problems, please be the one to help them.
According to a Harris Interactive Poll, “a real estate agent” was the second least trusted profession. People can see through what you’re saying, especially when they already have a lack of trust.
As my grandfather always says, “you kids be good to each other.”
