So many complaints… Buyers request info on a home they’ve see online and boom, inundated by unidentified Realtors setting up showing appointments… many times agents are so hungry to “capture the lead” they are not doing a proper job of explaining who they are and actually getting HIRED.  A reminder in this world of online, blind leads –  BEFORE setting up an appointment to see a home, the BUYER MUST CLEARLY KNOW (1) what firm you work for (2) who you [want to] represent (3) the services you are offering to provide.  And, THEN they must AGREE to be represented by you.

Question:  If you meet a buyer client for the first time at the front door of a property, are you really their FIDUCIARY AGENT hired to represent them? Maybe, but have they had a chance to read and sign disclosures and agreements? Have you seen their pre-qualification or proof of funds? Have you explained what hiring you means to them, have you explained how you will get paid, shared the scope of services you will provide? And have they agreed to have you represent them in the transaction?

To those that treat a first meeting at a showing like it’s no big deal, please stop it – you are making everyone look like a fly-by-night instead of a professional offering client level fiduciary services.

Realtors have been complaining about this for months – and now consumers are reporting that they are being “duped by agents” in this same manner.  Buyers explain that they ask questions about the property but are so confused when the agent showing the home doesn’t seem to know anything about it. Or gives misinformation. Because they believe the agent is there as the LISTING agent, having no idea that the person that met them at the house is speaking and acting in a legal capacity for THEM.  Without their consent. Oy.

There is no excuse. YOU COULD BE VIOLATING STATE LAW AND COMMITTING FRAUD if you are not properly telling buyers who you are and who you represent before you start working with them.  Please figure out how to use technology to engage, interact, explain and work with buyers before you meet, and follow up with all of that in-writing when you finally shake their hand in person. The only way Realtors will remain a part of the home sale process in the future is if we provide professional, client services that the consumer values.  Spend your time doing that and business will follow.