I've been posting on Trulia for a few weeks now (see my profile here), and one thing I've noticed about some Realtors...
Man, they don't want to give up a paycheck, do they?
I've seen agents claim to be experts in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. Not one or two counties- like ALL of them. Now, seriously, how is that possible?
I've seen people jockey to be first to answer any post that comes up, hoping to beat all the other agents out to "get the business."
I'm a pretty smart person. In fact, I'm probably a little vain about being "smart." I don't think I know everything, but I'm pretty sure I can learn most things (with the exception of geometry - I'm hopeless at geometry). I don't, however, think that I'm the best choice for every real estate need for every person out there.
Commercial Real Estate? Not my thing. You'll do better with someone else, and if you're in , PA, I know who you should work with.
Chester County Real Estate? Can I do it? Sure. Can I do it well? Probably. However, I can point you in the direction of a GREAT Chester County Realtor, so why take on business that isn't in my comfort zone?
Vacant Land in Bucks County? See, now this I think I can handle very well, even though I don't do many deals on vacant land. So, you know what? I'll partner with an agent in my office with a lot of vacant land experience so that my client gets the benefit of both of our experience and expertise.
I don't believe that you need to be everything to everyone. First, it's impossible, and secondly, you aren't doing what's best for your client if you're concerned with grabbing every opportunity, whether or not you're qualified for it.
So, what are my specialties?
- Bucks County Residential Sales (Both Buyers and Sellers)
- Bucks County Fix & Flip Property Investments
- Bucks County TLC properties for owner/occupants
- Wrightstown, PA Real Estate (Because I live here, love it, and can give you the lowdown on the neighborhood)
If you have a real estate need outside of these areas, please don't hesitate to call me. I can probably offer some general information, and I'll certainly point you in the right direction as far as contacts who can give you more intensive help.
If I'm not the right woman for the job, I'll tell you, and I'll help you find the right REALTOR for your needs. If you find someone who claims to be an expert in everything, beware. Quite often, they are a jack of all trades, master of none.
***************************************** Visit my website to search for homes in Bucks County. You can also find me on:
See you there!
You are so right Heather. I am on Trulia as well and some agents want to jump on every single deal. Real Estate is area specific and how can you be an expert in so many different markets. With Lending, it is state specific but there is even some loan programs that are area specific as well. Like you, if I am not comfortable with a scenario I know plenty of professionals in the business to send customers to!
Heather- very soulful! I couldn't have said it better myself.
Aw, shucks Heather, Thanks! Hopefully I'll be sending Nannies your way soon to interview!
Dead on, Heather! People trust us to give them our best, and sometimes that's knowing when we're not the best person for them. A good reminder, particularly in this day and age.
You're one very smart cookie. I don't care what your geometry teacher says. Great post!
Very good Heather. I see people driving all over just to get a paycheck and they get so frustrated when they aren't in there comfort zone. I tried to show in Delaware County and after one time of going there I knew I wasn't the best agent for the location. But I knew someone who was! Trulia is rough I've seen people argue over a question. I guess they didn't have anything better to do, but I felt bad for the consumer that ask the question. I also thought it was unprofessional.
Michael - You know what else I see a lot of? An agent will give the information requested "This house was on the market X days." and then others will chime in days afterward with the same info. It makes them look bad - like they have to have their name/picture on every answer, even when they don't offer anything valuable to the consumer.
Stacey - It's easier to be soulful with our crew behind us, isn't it? :)
Krista - Don't forget the cooking and cleaning part! Thanks.
Kim - I think we'll see more of this as the market gets tighter for agents. Ultimately, though, I think it all comes out in the wash - people will see through it pretty quickly.
Marcie - I really like Trulia, but you definitely have to know how to keep your nose clean and avoid being drawn into the fray. There are some strong personalities and even trolls on the boards, so I just make a conscious decision not to respond to them. It's difficult sometimes.
Heather - For those who claim to be experts at so many things, makes me wonder if they are good at any one of them. Commercial Loans aren't my speciality either, though I've did more than a handful in my career. The majority of the time I will refer them out.