“You’re a REALTOR, you basically put a sign up and get paid, right??”
Oh man, if that were the case, my job would be a LOT easier, but more importantly: a LOT less interesting.
The job of a REALTOR is not explained super well by anyone that I’ve ever met, and everyone who tries to explain it usually leaves out some of the craziest parts.
So, here’s my college try at it: We are part-mediator, part-marketer, part-therapist, part-negotiator, part-secretary, ALL Ringleader, ALL Badass.
But in all seriousness, this job gets hectic. Along with keeping timelines (did the buyer’s Earnest Money Deposit get in by day 3? Inspections and Appraisal done by day 17? Final loan approval by day 21? Did the Closing Disclosure go out? Are my clients scheduled to sign at escrow?), there are also the numerous parties involved that we are charged with overseeing – hence the “ring leader” vibes: The other agent and other buying or selling party involved, home inspector, pest inspector, appraiser, loan officer, notary, title and escrow officers.
It is a LOT of moving parts. Not to mention the things that need negotiating: repairs, final sales price, closing costs, who’s paying for what inspections?
Then, of course there are disclosures: what’s going on in your home? What’s the history of the property? Are you, the buyer, able to legally purchase a property? Where are your funds coming from?
And of course, all of this happens AFTER an offer is accepted. I didn’t even go into detail about Listing a home – professional photography, videos, open houses, knowing how and when to market a home, knowing how to PRICE a home (newsflash everyone: ZILLOW IS ALMOST ALWAYS WRONG), pulling comparable homes in the area, analyzing tax records and zip code trends.
And the buying side? Well, first we have to meet or chat so that I know your personality, wants, likes, dislikes. Then, I set you up with one of my preferred lenders and we work as a team to get you approved, up your credit score, all that fun stuff. Between you and I, we find some houses you like (Remember, Zillow SUCKS. Luckily, I have an app!), schedule showings, you fall in love, we put in an offer, and the negotiations start! Once our offer is accept, we go back to those pesky timelines I mentioned. Luckily, you have me every step of the way to schedule, be present at, and help you interpret your inspections. A few more check’s along our timeline and it’s KEY DAY!!!
Now, I oversimplified, A LOT. Like, a whole lot. But, I hope that this has made you realize a few things:
– It is smart to have someone you trust representing you in your Real Estate transactions. Just because your uncle Buck suggested them, or your second cousin got their license 3 months ago, doesn’t mean you should be using them for the biggest purchase/sale of your life.
– Selling your home without a REALTOR® or with a discount brokerage is NEVER a good idea. On average, Seller’s pocket more money by utilizing a LOCAL, industry professional.
– I’m the professional, trust my judgement. When I give you pointers, instructions, and analysis, realize it’s coming from a place of love, caring, and wanting YOU to enjoy this process. Realize this is how I help YOU come out on top.
This year I am on track to close my 1th transaction. This year will also be my 5th year in business. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, the knowledge I’ve gained, the friends I’ve met, and the clientele I’ve earned. I have sold horse properties, mobile homes, single family residences, and brand New Build homes. It’s been a fun ride and I’m looking forward to even more as your trusted, “Ringleader” extraordinaire!
Drop your questions below, spreading knowledge is one of my favorite things to do!
