Have you ever been so upset...

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

....when you had someone come to your home, and after they left you felt like just sobbing? Someone meant to be offering you help? Their services? I'm talking real estate agents here.

I just had the second interview with a real estate agent as I'm getting ready to list by Monday. The minute this guy walked into my home, (keep in mind he sold a home for me back in 1987, haven't seen him since) but he made me nervous. I thought, aggressive, sleezy, and I didn't trust him. Oh, sure I know I need to sell and very soon but something about him was in such a dichotomoy from the man this morning and his energy was so ....freaking me out that I wanted to tell him don't bother calling me tomorrow.

The man this morning thinks I should sell the house about 30-40 grand higher than this man this evening. But he also was willing to invest his OWN money and have my yard detailed. He said, he would know more about the price listing tomorrow as well but he was so kind, so willing to be open and honest with me. When he left I felt hopeful, there was a bounce in my step. He didn't quote me outrageous profits. He's ranked #5 in our state for Remax and this guy I've known for years couldn't quote a rank.

But my question is, do I sell fast and lose that equity, time and money is fast becoming a concern here but one is saying one week 30 less and the other is saying 2-3 weeks for that much more.

The guy tonight reminded me of a car salesman. He wanted me to make my house picture perfect and barely live here while the other guy was, listen...get it ready for photos, I'll do the yard and once that's done...people understand you live in the house.

They are totally different ends of the spectrum. Before he left, he said make sure whatever decision you make don't just go with whoever is telling you what you want to hear.

Okay that's fair. Right? But when I walked back in my house, my 17 year old said..."what a JERK, mom."

I feel beaten down like I can't even tell you. I need perspective....where's aadams and SP and OFG when I need my galpals?

I just feel like bawling.

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

Hey come on! I need some advice and like NOW!

Fenika · Jun 10, 2009

Have some hot tea and chill

Rolling Thunder · Jun 10, 2009

Sometimes a quick nickel is better than a slow dime.

Clair Dickson · Jun 10, 2009

First, some people have... personality conflicts. I'd go with the agent who made you more comfortable, first and foremost. You're going to be dealing with this guy over and over (which ever guy you pick) as the selling process takes place-- from listing, to showings, to deal negotiations. Consider how you feel... are you going to be comfortable dealing with guy number 2 day after day, week after week?

As for price-- YOU are in control of the price set. Maybe split the difference. If agent 1 is going to do some landscape, then you may consider going for a higher price. Maybe not the 30k, but you could go with 20k, or something. Pick a price you are comfortable with. Did the agents bring comparables (comps) for you to see and consider or did they just pull numbers out of their tailfeathers? Hopefully they brought comps, which you can look over and compare what other houses are selling for, and how quickly. A Realtor's opinion is one thing, but facts are another, IMHO. And, I am a Realtor.)

As for cleaning up-- honestly, while buyers do understand that you still live there, it really does help if there is as little personal effects and esp. "clutter" in the home. I'm a Realtor myself, and-- aware of the things I tell clients-- I *still* got distracted sometimes checking out photos on the walls, guessing what sort of family lived there based on things in the bedrooms, etc. It's human nature. So, clean up as much as you can to help buyers see the HOUSE not your family.

I'm sorry you had a bad experience. Some of my fellow Realtors are a disgrace to the business, in several ways. Pick an agent you can feel comfortable working with because selling your home really is a parternship, and it's a huge, emotional decision. I strongly suggest not making things worse by chosing someone you wouldn't be able to work effectively with. You might end up losing... and more than a few tears.

(So... what area are you in... ;-)

I wish you all the best in your home sale.

Cranky · Jun 10, 2009

Dump the jerk, Cassie. Go with the other guy. If the second realtor upset you that much, it ain't worth it, even though he is cheaper. That's money. (Not a small deal, I know) But peace of mind, having trust in someone...that really is priceless.

I don't mean to sound cheesy, but honestly -- it ain't worth the heartache, babe.

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

I've boxed up any and ALL non-essentials and tucked them away. I've painted, the carpets are getting cleaned on friday by a specialist in this...I adopted out my two rescue babies which about killed me.

I can handle the price difference, it's not that. It's that the second guy I knew a long time ago. If the first guy who was willing to come in and pay out of his own pocket to have the yard detailed and cleaned up and even help with some of the minor touch ups still...it makes me wonder what's going on. They are like night and day.

The first one is like, let's roll up our sleeves I'm with you on it...and the second one was like..no you do it and i'll flip it for you in a week. Well I don't have the money to do it. It would be me doing it and with my struggles lately, that's not going to happen.

I know it sounds easy..get the first guy right? But what if he's not aggressive enough even with the lower price?

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

Cranky said:
Dump the jerk, Cassie. Go with the other guy. If the second realtor upset you that much, it ain't worth it, even though he is cheaper. That's money. (Not a small deal, I know) But peace of mind, having trust in someone...that really is priceless.

I don't mean to sound cheesy, but honestly -- it ain't worth the heartache, babe.

OH my gosh, Cranky! You're here. I need some tunes girl.

The problem is, having two realtors..turns out from the same company...different branch offices...who have totally opposite personalities and one made me sick to my stomach but can I afford to go with a quieter person. I mean the quiet guy wasn't shy just not loud and aggressive.

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

I'm sorry if I'm not making much sense. It's been a long time since someone had me in such a tailspin. I was almost ready to sign him up...but I didn't cos I had this feeling...I don't know...I'm too freaked.

Clair Dickson · Jun 10, 2009

Okay-- more input from the Realtor.

People ARE different. Some Realtors won't spend five minutes putting in the room measurements on a listing while others take a dozen pictures. In Michigan, they both may be costing 6% of your hard earned money. In everything, there are different types of workers.

Now, when it comes to "aggressive", I'm not sure that's a necessary trait. Follow up, sure. But what's the Realtor going to be aggressive about? Forcing showings? If the agent is willing to make calls to follow up on feedback from showings, any deals that are in the works, and is going to put in the time one sprucing up and marketing the home, what is there to be aggressive with? But maybe I'm biased-- I'm a non-aggressive Realtor. I just don't see what aggression does for helping sell a home...

To me, (with admittedly only a few years of experience in the biz) it's far more important that the Realtor is hands on, making sure the home is in top condition and shows great, and, esp. in 2009, making sure the online photos/ info is fantastic. Many buyers these days do make the decision on whether to see a home based on the online listing. A Realtor who's willing to go the extra mile will likely get the interest in the property that leads to increased showings that leads to increased likelihood of an offer. IMHO.

KCathy · Jun 10, 2009

Here's a weird idea, but I thought it couldn't hurt to bring it up: can you call another realtor or two? See if you can find someone more energetic than shy-guy but who doesn't set your skin crawling like jerk-guy?

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

What about open houses....the first one is against them...says that's old school...the second one says that he gets 35% of his business from open houses.

Cranky · Jun 10, 2009

Cassiopeia said:
I'm sorry if I'm not making much sense. It's been a long time since someone had me in such a tailspin. I was almost ready to sign him up...but I didn't cos I had this feeling...I don't know...I'm too freaked.

Go with your gut, always. If your intuition is sending you that strong a signal, I really think you should pay attention. Sometimes, logic isn't logical, if you know what I mean.

And of course I'm here!

*hugs* Here's a song for ya, too.

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

KCathy said:
Here's a weird idea, but I thought it couldn't hurt to bring it up: can you call another realtor or two? See if you can find someone more energetic than shy-guy but who doesn't set your skin crawling like jerk-guy?

No I said the first one isn't shy but man he seems like it by comparison to run-me-over-guy

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

Cranky said:
Go with your gut, always. If your intuition is sending you that strong a signal, I really think you should pay attention. Sometimes, logic isn't logical, if you know what I mean.

And of course I'm here! *hugs* Here's a song for ya, too.

Ahhhh...I can breathe again.

Clair Dickson · Jun 10, 2009

Cassiopeia said:
What about open houses....the first one is against them...says that's old school...the second one says that he gets 35% of his business from open houses.

Okay... I'm working with a Broker who's been in business for 30 years. She's a pretty laid back woman (probably closer to agent 1 than agent 2). She thinks open houses are important, but also says they are pretty old school. She occasionally picks up new clients that way, but not nearly as much as she used to. The internet seems to be the biggest thing-- people see properties online and then call about them. (I see similar in my limited hours at the office. The calls I get were either the home magazine our properties were in or from the internet, usually Realtor.com)

Though, it really depends on the person, but I do have to wonder what constitutes as "business." Open houses tend to be better for picking up new clients than selling a home, IMHO.

Wayne K · Jun 10, 2009

Thank God that's settled. I probably would have just derailed the thread somehow.

bettielee · Jun 10, 2009

You should check with the Association of REALTORS in your area. I worked for the Association in Sacramento for awhile and learned GO WITH A REALTOR, one in good standing. AND GO WITH YOUR GUT! Your gut is there for a reason!

I'm serious. PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR ASSOCIATION. That is what THEY are there for. Check online to get the number of the one in your area.

So simple. What else ya got?

Dichroic · Jun 10, 2009

You need a realtor that works with you, not his own biases. What do you need more, time or money? (E.g. selling fast or getting top dollar? You can't do both, certainly not in this market, but priorities vary based on your circumstance. What you need is a realtor who will set the price based on your particular needs. It certainly isn't the second guy (you don't want to be working with someone who makes you cry every time! Esp. when he's supposed to be working for you.) It may or may not be the first. Maybe it would help to meet with him again, to make sure he's committed to working with you and not just being a steamroller mowing down a road to top commission.

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

Clair Dickson said:
Okay... I'm working with a Broker who's been in business for 30 years. She's a pretty laid back woman (probably closer to agent 1 than agent 2). She thinks open houses are important, but also says they are pretty old school. She occasionally picks up new clients that way, but not nearly as much as she used to. The internet seems to be the biggest thing-- people see properties online and then call about them. (I see similar in my limited hours at the office. The calls I get were either the home magazine our properties were in or from the internet, usually Realtor.com)

Though, it really depends on the person, but I do have to wonder what constitutes as "business." Open houses tend to be better for picking up new clients than selling a home, IMHO.

THAT is exactly what Realtor #1 said. He said it's demeaning to the owners and only serves the real estate agent. He is very much up on the latest in internet trends.

I'm feeling so much calmer guys....thanks for helping me through a moment. I just couldn't figure out why I reacted that way. I'm not that easily upset. (no, RT...really I'm not...yes I can hear you)

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

Wayne K said:
Thank God that's settled. I probably would have just derailed the thread somehow.

Derail away my friend!

NeuroFizz · Jun 10, 2009

First of all, this is a business decision, not a personality contest. And in that business decision, you have to be both comfortable with the person and confident in his/her abilities. People have different styles, but loud and bold doesn't automatically translate into competence and it doesn't always indicate self-confidence. And remember, your potential buyers may well be dealing with this person as well.

As for the price differences, which one best matches with the local comps, and with respect to those local comps (both for sale properties and recently sold ones), what reasons did the agents give for setting the price where they did? This aspect is closer to logic than anything else in the business, unless there are no local and comparable houses for sale. This also takes into account how fast you want (or expect) the property to sell, or how long you can hold out for that sale remembering that a high price may have to adjusted downward with time on the market.

What I've been told about open houses is they are of far more benefit to the agent than to the person selling the house. I never did a single one in selling two houses (on advice of the agents), and both sold in reasonable times with more than reasonable outcomes (but not in the current economic climate).

The bottom line, though--go with your gut as suggested by others.

rugcat · Jun 10, 2009

Cranky said:
Go with your gut, always. If your intuition is sending you that strong a signal, I really think you should pay attention. Sometimes, logic isn't logical, if you know what I mean.

And of course I'm here! *hugs* Here's a song for ya, too.

Sorry to butt in, but I think Cranky is absolutely right here.

Cassiopeia · Jun 10, 2009

NeuroFizz said:
First of all, this is a business decision, not a personality contest. And in that business decision, you have to be both comfortable with the person and confident in his/her abilities. People have different styles, but loud and bold doesn't automatically translate into competence and it doesn't always indicate self-confidence. And remember, your potential buyers may well be dealing with this person as well.

As for the price differences, which one best matches with the local comps, and with respect to those local comps (both for sale properties and recently sold ones), what reasons did the agents give for setting the price where they did? This aspect is closer to logic than anything else in the business, unless there are no local and comparable houses for sale. This also takes into account how fast you want (or expect) the property to sell, or how long you can hold out for that sale remembering that a high price may have to adjusted downward with time on the market.

What I've been told about open houses is they are of far more benefit to the agent than to the person selling the house. I never did a single one in selling two houses (on advice of the agents), and both sold in reasonable times with more than reasonable outcomes (but not in the current economic climate).

The bottom line, though--go with your gut as suggested by others.

It's interesting that two Realtors, ironically turn out to be from the same agency (different offices) came up with two different comps. The first did as I requested and brought not only all the comps with him but a track record of all his sales for the last 18 months. Along with his plan for marketing the house. Number two sat and BS'd and was so loud I found myself talking really loud too. It made me squick as, Cranky calls it.

Now that the negative energy of number two had dissipated, I am set on number one. After all, he was professional, prepared, very generous in his offer to help with the clean up out of his own pocket and he saw all the good things about my house and how to sell it for a bit more, not a lot and if number two can sell it for XYZ than why can't number one and I don't have to dread his presence in my home.

I think you are spot on Fizzy about my potential buyers finding him a bit too much as well. I wanted to smudge my house after he left.

Thanks for your comments. I really appreciate everyone's help.

rugcat said:
Sorry to butt in, but I think Cranky is absolutely right here.

You aren't butting in. Thank you for your input, rc.

and Cranky...like me is always right.

:hugs2: +everyone

Cranky · Jun 10, 2009

Woot! I'm right again! *pumps fist in victory*

Seriously, though, I've learned the hard way to listen to my instincts when it comes to people, and they have yet to steer me wrong. Knowing you're going with Realtor #1 actually makes ME feel relieved. *hugs*

Have you ever been so upset...

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