True story: Last weekend a well-dressed prospective customer strolled into my open house, smiled at me, took the flyer I offered, and said, "Oh nice flyer! You're someone I could work with."
This Choosy Customer went on to say she immediately ruled out an agent who gave her a 'sloppy flyer' because, "If I'm going to spend three million dollars I have the right to be picky." And she does.
Prospective clients have keen senses when sniffing out an agent to represent them, and they use them:
The eyes take it all in: As a real estate agent I want people to see my brand. A bad first impression often ensures I will not have a chance to change a customer's mind. The sight test begin with me, my style and the products I use to represent me (flyers, business cards etc.).
Can you hear me, now? Effective communication will draw a client closer, soon they will be doing more than listening, they will ask questions, give personal information and size me up as someone worthy of their time--or not.
What's that smell? There is no easy way to say this, but if it is not coming from the house, it might be the agent. Too much perfume, or too much garlic can make people step back and question if they want to subject their nose to repeated assaults by selecting a smelly agent to work with.
Check your vibe: From the moment a prospective client sees you they are forming an opinion of your character, your knowledge, your integrity and your ability to meet their needs. They are getting a feel for you as their potential agent. The interview is finished if they are not comfortable with you.
No one wants to walk away with a bad taste in their mouth.
More blogs about a real estate agent's life from Norma.
Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty
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Norma Toering & Team RE/MAX Palos Verdes Realty
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South Bay Los Angeles cities I sell real estate, property, houses and homes in: Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, Torrance, Lomita, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach. Based on information from the Association of REALTORS®/Multiple Listing as of the initial date of this article/blog publication and /or other sources. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.
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That is a great reminder. Attention to detail is so easy to glossover.
Rain on!
David - Just one detail can alter a customer's decision.
Which is why we do not skimp on marketing materials. Our info packet costs about $10-15, compared to other companies using cheap $3-5 packets. Quality sells.
How much we value what we do shows in the details.
Thomas - That's a smart investment on first impressions.
Brenda - Small touches often pay big dividends.
How right you are-the old saying we never get a second chance to make a first impression is so true.
Pat - Disqualified by the quality of a flyer--that was a first for me, but small details often make or break a relationship.
Absolutely!!! I was showing some 1M+ homes this week (which is VERY high-end in my market) and was shocked to see the quality (or lack thereof) in the marketing materials. It didn't say much to me about the agent at all.
Hi Norma ~ That's a great story and an excellent reminder. It's so interesting to hear what clicks for potential customers - I think the list of possible turn-ons and turn-offs is long. We need to be on our toes!
Liz
Colleen - Our brand is speaking even when we are not present. Good luck with the M+ buyer!
Elizabeth - Yes, we have to check the messages we are conveyed by our marketing materials.
Elizabeth --correction on the above--I did a re-write and didn't proof it--shame on me. It should read, we have to check the messages conveyed by our marketing materials.