How often do we hear "they're not listening"?

Let me answer that! Repeatedly!

We hear and read over and over  how important listening and communication are in any personal or professional relationship. And, it's certainly critical in the home buying process.

When I first meet with Sellers and Buyers and ask what they expect of me, they answer without exception: "communication" - whether it's via e-mail, text, or a phone call. And, they want the communication to be given in the form that is most comfortable to them. They want to be heard. They want to know that someone is really listening!

In the past 6 months, two Buyers were referred to me.  Both of them commented that they had been working with other Realtors who had not listened to them.  One said, "We told her what we could afford, and she kept showing us homes $30,000 - $40,000 over that."  The other commented, "I would leave numerous messages, and he didn't respond."

Purchasing a home is the single most expensive investment most people will make in their lifetime.  Therefore, it's important that Home Buyers choose the Realtor who really listens to them.  In his book Win, Dr. Frank Luntz writes:  "... listening is more than hearing.  Listening requires genuine understanding.  ... It involves strategic questioning."

Well then ... How will you, as a Buyer, know how to choose a Realtor?  How can you  know you've selected the "right" Realtor? The one who really listens?

Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

First: does the Realtor invite you to meet face to face for an initial meeting to learn what's important to you?  What kinds of questions does the Realtor ask? Is the Realtor really focusing on what matters most to you?

Second: ask the Agent how will he/she communicate? E-mail? Text? Phone call?

Third: does the Agent outline what the home buying process involves?  How clearly?

Fourth: tell the Agent what you expect of his/her services.  Emphasize how important price is. Don't hesitate to ask questions along the way - no matter how "silly" they may seem!

Fifth: does the Agent ask for and welcome your feedback after each showing - both negative and positive? Does the Agent take that into consideration in selecting which homes to view next?

Sixth: what are the Agent's credentials? Has the Agent earned a Certification as a Buyer's Agent: ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) or CBR (Certified Buyer Representative)?

Home Buying can be both stressful and exciting at the same time.  Yet, if you're in the hands of an Agent who listens, focuses, and understands what matters most to you, you're well on your way to home ownership.

Attend a FREE home buyer workshop to find out more helpful tips.