Andi Grant's Blog - Everyday Real Estate with a Twist

It could happen.  After reading Karen Parson-Fiddler's blog Does Condescension Really Attract Clients? I have to ask you, would you mind if your competitor showed your blogs and comments to a seller at a listing presentation? One that you are likely to be vying for as you've gone head-to-head with each other many times before?  All is fair in listings and war right?  

Can you really say it is unethical for them to do so, when they don't have to say anything about you, simply let the sellers read it for themselves?

There are plenty of antagonistic people to be found on review or networking sites. You post red, they comment blue - just for the heck of it.  The majority of their posts have a lot of explanation points (not because of conviction), or a condescending tone (emphasizing your inferiority and their superiority) or they just want everyone to swallow the same bitter pill they are still choking on.  Karen made an excellent point when she said, "I would be concerned that this person has built a reputation of being difficult and wonder about the ability to get my offers accepted."

That is exactly a point that can be made to sellers when discussing their choice of representation.  I've made it a habit now to post the comments of agents in my testimonials as well. Why not? You just never know what the buyers or sellers may already know about you in this internet age.  You are indirectly making a pre-listing presentation every time you post a blog or comment. You only have one chance to make a first impression.  Don't automatically assume the first time will be when you meet them face-to-face. You'll never know if you've made it easier for someone else to make your first impression for you.

It was VERY tough to choose.  I'm glad its over because it was actually kind of stressful.:)  Too many great blogs and at one point I found myself starting to let too much of what others would think play into my decision making. If I choose another women's blog, it will come off as girl power.  If I choose this one, it'll be a witch hunt because they already have quite a few features.  If this one, its because they are one of my consistent blog commenters" blah, blah, blah. But I had to quash all of the noise and go with my gut and feature blogs that I loved that were written to or from the perspective of the buyers, sellers, lender, agents and one off-topic AR blog that was very moving.

As I stated in the original blog:  I read and took into consideration the tone and spirit of each blog and the following factors: 

• Is this helpful? 
• Is it too self-glorifying?
• Does this represent our profession well? 
• Does it represent AR well (No I'm NOT on staff!)
• Are there already several blogs re this subject currently featured? 
• Will this strike a chord with locals, a home buyer or home seller? 

There were MANY variables to consider.  There were so many that were posted that would've made great features, but alas we have to settle for them being great blogs which is still a wonderful thing!  If you've read something you really liked, why not consider reblogging it and giving significant credit to the original blogger? 

The original 2nd CHANCE BLOG FEATURE challenge. Feel free to reblog original blog that had over 100 comments in order to pass on the many great insights, tips and advice to your AR and outside blog readers.

**2nd CHANCE WINNERS**

 "A Different Kind of Activerain Lead" a first time feature for her!

 WEDNESDAY:   Kristi DeFazio's

"Top 5 Vibes Given Off By Homes For Sale-Which One Brings in the Sale and Money?" Congrats Kristi - those things had to be said... and read... by many!

 THURSDAY:  Two-way tie: Gene Mundt and Greg Nino:

Gene Mundt's If You're a First Time Buyer & Looking For Advice .... Read This! 

and Greg Nino's Put My House On the Market, But WithOUT A Sign!

FRIDAY: Lenn Harley

THE LATEST WORD FROM LENDERS ABOUT SHORT SALES - OR WAS IT? READ THIS BLOG!  Print out the report.  Strategize how you will use this information to you and your future client's benefit.

 **Honorable Mentions**

Though you weren't featured, I just had to post that it was excrutiatingly close. 

Tony Grego's - A Lender's Appraisal Does Not Care About Your Upgrades 

Nyssa Smith" - Home Buyers' Frequently Asked Questions.

 Big thanks to all of you who took the time out to participate!