A Question From a Possible Referral.....And The Answer

The Challenge by Bob about answers to questions has really had me watching my email and monitoring my phone conversations.

Yesterday I received a call from an Active Rain agent in Texas with a possible referral (thank you Ed). One of the first questions he asked me was "how do you work with relocation buyers"?

Great question....and very important to realize that relocation clients are different from the average buyer. Relocation buyers normally do not have a built-in knowledge of the area, and if they do have a city preference it's often based on preconceived impressions....or opinions of co-workers, family or Internet.

Sometimes these impressions are correct....sometimes not.

In this situation, the buyers were out here visiting family for the week, and this was my main opportunity to meet with the wife. After this, I will be taking the husband out to see homes. This time with the wife is critical!!! This might sound sexist.....but let's face it, the wife will have definite opinions about homes, streets, kitchens, bathrooms....and I want to make the most of our time together to understand what she does and doesn't like. In this way, I can offer opinions later to the husband.

The first thing I do with relocation clients is take them on a tour of our area. Show them some different options for homes, neighborhoods, cities. Show them locations of schools and sports parks (if they have children). Give them a basic orientation. I also like to show them a variety of homes. Newer vs older, big lots vs nice views, upgraded vs fixers. Some of everything. The more diverse the selection the more information they and I can gather from our limited time together.

Then when they go home, we can continue to work from the Internet....but with a basis. "Remember this tract was near the huge park" or "Yes, but the power lines are going to be right behind the house, you didn't like that"?

Hopefully, this approach helps the absent spouse (see how my sexism went away?:D) can feel more a part of the process and we find a home that fits both their requirements.