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

It turned out my buyers saw no harm in talking to the agent extensively because they told him they were working with an agent and they hadn't particularly cared for the home once seeing the inside.  Well guess what?  The home they DID love, turned out to be listed and represented by the same agent!  My buyers had inadvertently stripped themselves of negotiation leverage by spilling the beans regarding their circumstances.

D'oh!

After a gentle scolding we were able to salvage negotiations because I too had done my homework on the sellers and knew they didn't have a lot of time to waste as well. The sellers did end up accepting our offer, my buyers got the home and all was well again in AndiLand.

I was so disturbed by what could've happened, I drafted a two-page "Buyer's Protocol and Guidelines" that outlined all roles and expectations of each party before and during escrow.  I've found this to be an invaluable resource.  It has been tweaked throughout the years as different situations have presented themselves.  Buyers can be very unpredictable (hardheaded - God bless them) so why not have measures already in place?  If my buyers find themselves making that sharp right to see an open house, they are to play it cool and give up NO information.  If the agent insists on them signing a registration book, they are to put MY phone number in.  I've gotten calls from agents who were spitting mad that I answered the phone.  In which I respond by asking them if they insisted that my buyers sign their registration book after being told they were already working with an agent?  *crickets*  Also, under no circumstance are my buyers to call a "For Sale" Sign, but rather call, text, or email me either the name, number, address or street and I'll get them all the information they want within the hour if possible.  There's also protocol for online registration when it comes to real estate websites as well.  The information is sold by the masses to local agents and lenders who need only an open door in which to talk to your clients.  I don't even want you looking through the peep-hole when it comes to my clients! 

If nothing else, going over a "Buyer Guideline and Protocol" is a great way to break the ice, enforce the concept of teamwork, and to empower your clients!  They feel so much more informed, relaxed about the process, and confident in working with you when witnessing your precautionary measures on their behalf before and during the process. 

If you would like to partner in the home buying or selling process, do not hesitate to call me at 310-508-4354!