We recently sold two homes to two different buyers with two different listing agents on each side. The task of buying and selling a home can be a stressful one. But no matter the hurdles, if agents are willing to work together you can find a way to overcome just about any hurdle.
One of our clients bought a home that based on a home inspection needed quite a lot of work. The repairs were not cheap. The listing agent on this transaction was cooperative, and sought to find solutions to over come the obstacles. Our jobs as REALTORS are to protect our clients interests and to seek to help them accomplish their goals. At walk through all the work was completed, receipts submitted to us in advance and the listing agent was there to assist with any questions. This is a “professional” way to handle business. With professional Realtors on both sides you can overcome just about anything.
Our other client bought a home that also required work, but minimal maintenance items. The repairs were not very expensive. We were informed the work was complete and the listing agent sent receipts just before the walk through. The listing agent did not attend the walk through. As the buyers started checking off the walk through items, they realized that not all the work was completed in accordance with the Home Inspection items negotiated. The utilities were not on as agreed upon in the contract and the seller left personal property (furniture) in the house and attic. We contacted this listing agent, and the response was “Are you going to let this fall apart over a few items?” This my dear is a prime example of amateur hour. This is not the agent you want to work with or have selling your most valuable asset. In this situation, we had to play hard ball which resulted in a delayed closing, but a happy buyer client, none the less.
Professionalism is a commitment to do the right thing, to following through, to competence and skill. We are committed to protecting our sellers and buyers and their interests. We are REALTORS and we subscribe to a code of ethics, but better yet we subscribe to a high moral standard. Choose wisely when considering who you want to represent you.
