If the real estate business is so bad, why can't I get a day off?

As a real estate agent in the Joplin, Missouri area, I hear it a couple of times a week, "Isn't the market terrible right now?" If it is so bad, then why do I work every day of the week? Not that I am complaining, quite honestly, I am one of the few people on earth that actually enjoys going to work everyday. Maybe it is because I have the enjoyable job of helping people buy and sell homes, or maybe I just got a "workaholic" gene. Regardless, I am fascinated when people tell me that business is bad right now. How much more busy would I be if business was good?

I attended a Women's Council of Realtors meeting at our local Board of Realtors office back in January. We had three different appraisal companies visit with us about their jobs. One gentleman said that they are still reporting Joplin, Missouri as a stable market. That is great for us! Of course business was a little slower around the Christmas holiday, but I have noticed a steady increase in the amount of calls I receive everyday from both buyers and sellers since about January 2nd.

I would advise sellers, "Don't be afraid!" Of course as agents, I do believe we have to work harder for our clients in this market, but as long as you have an agent that is willing to work your listing with proper advertising and exposure and as long as the house is priced correctly, then now is a great time to sell. With interest rates low, more and more buyers are learning the value of owning a home.

I am sure other agents would agree with me when I say, "Keep us busy!"