By Vanessa L. Saunders – Founder & CEO – Global Property Systems
In the complex and often emotionally charged world of real estate, the role of a Realtor is frequently misunderstood. As Certified Pricing Strategy Advisors (PSA), our primary goal is to sell houses and provide expertise and consultation that help clients avoid costly mistakes, especially in the current market.
The Blame Game in Real Estate Transactions
Disappointed buyers are quick to point fingers when their dream home slips through their fingers. The frustration is understandable, but the blame placed on Realtors is often misplaced. Why is this the case? Let’s delve deeper.
The Unseen Efforts of Realtors
As Realtors, we go the extra mile. We’re taking calls at all hours, conducting previews, and offering video walkthroughs. Our commitment goes beyond the 9-to-5 workday. Yet, these efforts sometimes go unnoticed when outcomes don’t align with expectations.
The Misconception of ‘Selling’ a House
Contrary to popular belief, our job as PSAs is not to push any house onto a buyer. Our role is to guide and inform, helping you make decisions not driven by desperation or fleeting market trends. We aim to ensure the house you buy is a sound investment, both emotionally and financially.
The Fiduciary Duty of a Realtor
A crucial aspect of our role is our fiduciary duty to our clients. This means we are legally and ethically bound to act in your best interests. It’s not about the quick sale but the right sale. This duty compels us to advise against overbidding on properties that don’t warrant it, a practice all too common in today’s market.
Quality Over Quantity
When selling a house, we focus on its condition and aggressive pricing to attract the right buyers. This approach often contrasts with that of some agents who don’t care about the appearance of the house, just the fact they have a listing. Many encourage overbidding, leading buyers to overpay significantly. Our commitment is to market homes effectively, ensuring they don’t just sell but sell for the right price.
The Path Forward
As we navigate the tumultuous waters of real estate, it’s important to remember that a Realtor’s success is intrinsically linked to the satisfaction and success of their clients. Our dedication is to you, the buyer or seller, ensuring that every step we take is in your best interest. However, it’s also crucial to acknowledge that achieving mutual satisfaction isn’t always possible. It may be time to part ways in scenarios where blame is unfairly assigned to us, and the professional relationship becomes strained. Persisting in such situations often resembles the futile effort of ‘beating a dead horse.’ Our goal is to foster productive and positive relationships, but stepping back becomes the most reasonable course of action when these are no longer feasible. This approach ensures that both parties can move forward in a direction more suited to their needs and expectations.
In conclusion, the next time you find yourself in the throes of a real estate transaction, remember that your Realtor is more than just a salesperson. We are consultants, advisors, and, most importantly, your advocates. Blame is easy to assign, but understanding the full scope of a Realtor’s role and efforts might change your perspective.