There are times when it is important to take a step back and remember the point of it all. I turned away a prospective client this week; she wanted to list her home with me.
She is a lovely, intelligent woman suffering from what I call 2006itus. She wanted a price for her home that may have been possible in 2006, but is not today.
I was kind, compassionate and honest. She was not happy. That's okay, my shoulders are broad, I can take it. I left her home with my head held high knowing that although she was not happy, I had done the right thing.
Although the general public may not be aware of it, being a realtor, if done correctly, is one of the noblest modern professions. For those of us who have devoted our lives to this business, we have a simple truth. We don't buy and sell houses. We help people to buy and sell HOMES. To me there is a tremendous difference. It is a difference I am very proud of.
Coco,
Congratulations on being honest. You'll probably end up with the house in 6 months when it expires!
Good job!!!
I agree with you. If we could sell overpriced listings in this market we would be miracle workers. I don't know about you but my magic wand is at the cleaners!
Teresa Johnson & Associates; RE/MAX Greater Atlanta; Serving the Metro Area of Atlanta,GA (770) 888-0021; TeresaJohnson@remax.net
Coco - I am sure the seller in the end will sell the home close to the price you gave her. She will not forget that you were honest. Might not get this one, but if there's a next real estate transaction with her, you'll be her first call, no doubt.
Great post, Coco. And I agree with the others that you will likely get a call when that listing expires!
Another great AR blogger, Broker Bryant, had an awesome discussion about listing prices recently (READ the blog here). I have committed his message to memory: "I'm not here to tell you what your house is worth, I'm here to tell you what it will take to get it sold."
My new mantra...
Jenn!
I love it! Thanks!
Coco
You're right Coco, "Done Right" it is a noble profession to help people buy and sell HOMES.
Too often, I've seen agents "buy" the listing by operpricing it, then a month later dropping the proce back to where it should be.
Though it does seem to be a fading phenomenon.
What's most important is that YOU know you did it right. Congratulations.