Success Through Communication

Success Through Communication

Communication is the key to any successful relationship…. Why am I, as a real estate agent, talking about a generic topic like communication? Let’s start with one basic premise that the process of buying or selling real estate has many moving parts and like any business, expectations of the people involved is served best with clear communication that is organized. Here is the clincher, communication styles vary, and they vary with people and the generations.

To avoid disappointment, open clear and honest communication is a must! My background in health has given me the foundation to first listen carefully to my clients and ask questions. By doing this I strive to find out their wants, needs, motivation and carefully set expectations.

One of the first items I discuss in my seller or buyer consultations is communication. Yes, we can text and email each other for certain areas of our business. I also set the expectation that on a regular basis we will talk on the phone and meet face to face. Why is this necessary in a busy world? Have you ever had a text message misunderstood? That is why! Texting is fine for quick messages, confirming meetings or setting a time to speak. When you are dealing with $100,000’s… I don’t know about you BUT I wouldn’t want to rely on a text for a review or to complete a transaction. Voice inflection, body language and other subtleties can be missed which could have long lasting effects on the outcome of the transaction.

Knowing your audience meaning your client’s style is helpful. In other words, some clients want to get to the point and not mince words while others want to see graphs and have all the facts and yet another may want to bond with you and become your friend. Considering the generations and how they communicate is also critical. Yes, some people still use flip phones! While others are so text/phone centric they rarely even check email. Accept everyone for who and where they are at. When considering and honoring these differences, good communication and a successful relationship will happen!

Have you ever wondered why someone responded negatively out of nowhere or said something like it came out of the blue? I always tell my clients that if they have a question, concern or issue that needs to be addressed to please call me immediately so we can “nip it in the bud”. As the real estate professional setting the stage for open honest communication the expectations for all involved including your clients as well as the other professionals (the other realtor, home inspectors, attorneys, home stagers, etc.) will flow more easily so your home sale will close with fewer bumps in the road.

Our lives are full of “busy” and we handle that. With open honest voice to voice or face to face communication, I have found real estate transactions close on time with minimal issues and obstacles. It may be old fashion and yet it works!

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