An open letter to customers and clients in the real estate game.
Look. I like you. And hopefully you like me. We don't have to agree on everything, but let's go ahead, from here on out, and respect each other as individuals, knowing that we can't possibly understand the extent of the others experiences without having been along for the ride.
As a client, you hired me to do the job. By signing some papers and working with me, you have implied a trust in my abilities to help you reach your goal, whether that is to buy or sell a home. And just as you would put your trust in a dentist, lawyer or trainer, my services are best rendered when you listen to my advice, heed my warnings and follow prompts.
You see, real estate is a funny thing. We in the industry agree to complete certain courses, read certain materials and practice before taking a state exam (which is all followed by routine continuing education). We pay dues to a board to be a part of an elite bunch that separates us from the herd. We network and socialize with other industry professionals. Sounds fun, right? Well, it is - but it comes with the high cost of something that separates us, you and I. It comes with experience.
You are unique in your situation and circumstances. But chances are, we've had a client very similar to you with very similar financial background, moving need, credit bruises, etc. "This ain't our first rodeo," as the saying goes. And with each transaction, comes a morsel of experience, whether nightmare or ideal, that gives us another tool to approach the world with the goal to better serve the next individual that comes into our lives.
If you want specifics, I'll break it down for you… I, nor any other professional, will instruct you to use one service provider and not offer the options of other resources. As a precaution, I may warn you about the casualties experienced when a Buyer utilizes a BIG Bank lender that's known nationwide - yes, they'll send you a calendar in the mail but files tend to be dropped, loan officers quit and the package is shuffled from one state to another during the course of underwriting.
I cannot and will not force your hand. But if you so choose to use individuals other than those that I have suggested, I cannot guarantee their professionalism or work ethic, nor can I prevent the headache that might accompany. Ignoring my recommendations for smaller, relationhip-driven service providers is only doing you a disservice. My experience with the BIG lenders, my experience with the shotty home inspector and my experience with Title and Home Warranty reps is there to protect you - I've taken the bumps and bruises so that you don't have to.
So the next time your Realtor or representative offers recommendations for resources you need, consider their experience and know-how. They've been through a lot to get to where they are and it is their goal to offer you a smooth and happy transaction, every step along the way.
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Ashley Cox is a Realtor® with Keller Williams Realty and strives to provide excellent service and assistance to Buyers and Sellers in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. If you are in the market to buy or sell and need the assistance, guidance and support of a professional, call (972) 978-3109 today.
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