The public’s perception of the real estate industry, based on feedback I have received over the years, is not as positive as it should be. I will always work to improve the public perception of real estate professionals and promote the important service we provide.
Frequently, people tell me they receive more valuable information from me in one conversation than from all the other real estate agents they have spoken to combined.
Why do I do it? Because I feel the more information the public has, the better prepared they will be when they buy or sell a home. Sure I hope they remember me and allow me to assist in their purchase or sale. But even if they don’t, I hope they use the information when dealing with other real estate professionals. The agents will realize they are working with an informed consumer and hopefully provide that client with the quality service customers deserve.
Many real estate salespeople hope customers never meet me or visit my website. They hate having to explain their high commission especially when they know I offer excellent service at a reasonable fee. I thought my peers (other real estate agents) would publicly condemn me and my programs. What a relief and pleasant surprise when customers tell me real estate professionals refer to me as “a good agent.” Anyone who knows me or has worked with me realizes I am very knowledgeable and meticulous in how I conduct my business. They may not agree with my business philosophy; but at least I have earned their respect. It has to be difficult complimenting a competing Broker, especially when you know the customer is most likely going to hire that Broker instead of you. But in my defense, all real estate agents could offer my programs if they really wanted.
Warning: Buyers and Sellers are becoming more informed about the real estate market. Remember years ago when real estate companies would buy full page ads telling the public how many millions of dollars of real estate their sales people sold? Have you noticed they don’t do that anymore? Now they categorize agents in groups like; President’s Club, Platinum Club and Diamond Club. Why do you think they came up with these new categories? So that the customer can no longer figure out how much money these people are making! The public is appalled when they read about the outrageous salaries of corporate officials. Similarly, readers are increasingly disturbed when they see the huge incomes of real estate agents.
Real Estate commissions are listed at the top of page two of every settlement sheet. I am never nervous or self- conscious about the client seeing what I’m paid, because I know they know I earned it. How many real estate agents can say the same thing after seeing some of those huge commission totals? Guess what, agents? Sellers may not say anything at settlement but they are taking notice to the huge commissions real estate firms are charging and are not happy, especially when the real estate company is walking away with more money than the Seller and it is the client’s home that was just sold!