Will the "Real" Real Estate Agent Please Stand Up?

I just finished reading an article about an agent that went into an open house to preview a home for a client and said that she felt judged by the person heading up the open house. That he looked her up and down in judgment that she was not dressed appropriately enough... All I can say about that is... how sad that some agents feel that insecure! I believe that there is a wind of change blowing through this Real Estate Agent world, which is a long time coming. I believe that people will choose agents who are professional, knowledgeable, and very importantly make them feel safe and respected.

When the market boomed and agents thrived, it brought out some negative qualities. The agents tried to one-up each other via the car they drove, what they wore, how they gallivanted about. A fancy watch or car does not symbolize that you are an agent that cares, an agent that is in the industry for the people. In fact, I believe that it has perpetuated the thought that "agents are ripping off the consumer", the "I'd better do a FSBO, or negotiate my commissions-- so Joe Agent doesn't laugh all the way to the bank with my hard earned money." The consumer does not see how hard we work for them or the money we invest personally. When they see a big fat ride or shiny jewelry, it is only fair of them to see that the commission they pay you is leading you to the high life---an untouchable life for some of them.

It is our duty to bring the typical citizens' vision of the Real Estate agent back to earth. It is not about you and your sweet face on the calendar that they are supposed to hang on their fridge---YUCK! It is all about the client, negotiating a good deal for them, being readily available, educating them, keeping them abreast on each step of this stressful process.

Match your clothes to your clients, if you are working with someone with a lot of money to spend, break out the suits and fancy watches or Dockers and a button up shirt for the average homeowner. That is a small step you can make to change the way people view us agents. Let's put the "real" back in Real Estate agent.