They die. Whether you get the phone call or read it in the paper, the customer that you had a lasting relationship with has passed away. You will probably attend the funeral or at the very least send flowers.
I remember the first customer of mine that passed away. I actually read about it in the paper and attended the funeral. That was probably 8 or 9 years ago and there have been many since then. I started keeping a file with obituaries and mark their file in my Palm Centro with the appropriate information.
I think the toughest one to date was Craig A. I met Craig and Toni as they drove through my neighborhood looking for a home for their handicapped daughter. We met & I showed them some homes and found the perfect one and the rest is history. Craig was a CPA as was Toni and after that they became my CPA. They were very good at what they did and as a result I referred them several clients. I always looked forward to the annual visits but there were the times running to each other at the store or other places. Craig lost his bout with Cancer and of course I attended the funeral and in fact I will never forget it. It was truly one of those "celebrations of life" rather than a sad funeral. Now Toni does my taxes and I still look forward to my annual visit as well as the "bump ins" at the store, etc.
I read the paper/obituary section with a certain amount of anxiety now. I have actually found out about many of their deaths this way but I am grateful so I can send flowers or attend the funeral but it never gets easier. These are my clients but more importantly they are my friends. I am witness to their ups and downs, births of children and grandchildren and of course their deaths. If someone had told me years ago when I first got into the business that this would happen, I would more than likely have blown them off but it's true, this is very much a part of the business as it is our own lives. That doesn't make it any easier but I realize now that it is a part of being a successful agent/Realtor® and it's one that I take very seriously so if this has not yet happened to you, just wait, it will but I hope you will take the time to attend the funeral or send flowers and remember to talk to or visit the spouse or other family member after they have had time to grieve. I know they will appreciate you for it. Remember they consider you a friend as well.
Since 1998 Russell has consistently been a Top Producer and was the OKCMAR Realtor of the Year in 2005. Russell strives to provide a level of service that will earn the trust of those he serves.
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It's happened to me several times over the years. It's sad but we remember them with friendliness.
I always remember them with agreat amount of respect. It is always tough though.
I have been "lucky" so far. My clients seem to be young and having their kids right now. It must be very difficult.
Russell,
Gosh, I have even had this happen to me a few times (during the transaction)....it's so painful to see and be a part of.
But, it's also good to see those things in life that might bring them to mind and remember them...make sure you let their family know what those instances might be that make you remember...I promise you they will thank you.
Russell, Last November I went to the funeral of a 32 year old "young" man to whom I had sold a home. He had a beautiful wife and 2 adorable children. And you are right, it doesn't get any easier no matter how many you attend.
The worst we ever experienced was a couple who were both killed on their way to closing in a car accident. Everyone was sitting around the settlement table waiting. No one could reach them and it wasn't characteristic of them to be late. Everyone was frantic and it was 2 days before we learned what had happened.
Barb: So far most have been older folks but it is still difficult no matter the age.
Cindy: That is terrible. I'm sure their deaths were the last thing everyone imagined. Closing is supposed to be a happy time.
Sheila: I have never had anything like that happen but I'm sure the odds are it will.
Lenn: I'm curious if you send out cards the following year or the years after someone passes? I have a couple of close clients/friends that I do send out a card as I know that date will always be on their mind.
Joan: Hopefully this will help you get prepared for when that day comes. I was 31 when I started in the real estate business and never really thought about this issue and what to do when it does happen but now that I have gone through many, the process does not seem quite as tough though I still dread it. My very first customer/transaction is an older lady whom I still visit from time to time and she signs her Christmas card to me: Your First Customer. Some of my clients I've grown very attached to and some are like mothers or grandmothers.
No Russell. I can't dwell on the past.
Lenn: I totally understand. This is a part of life most of us don't ever want to think about.
Russell ~ It sounds like a you are a pretty special guy who seems to make quite an impression on your clients! I am sure it is never easy to loose clients.I think it is great that you will try to go to funerals of past clients and are able to remain friends with the entire family.
Terrie: I think we tend to get attached to some of our clients. I have received gifts such as gift cards, bottles of wine and even a free surgery (yes, free surgery) and have appreciated each and every one of them. Likewise I have sent gifts for weddings and births to numerous clients to honor that valued friendship like we would a close friend or family member because in time, they do become like family and there is one family that has 3 generations that I have helped and that is a pretty awesome thing!
Russell, good to read your blog post but I am sorry for the occassion of it. Let me know where else you blog so I can follow you. Hope your business is good this year, and good luck the rest of the year.
Joe: Thanks for the visit. I heard you are doing well and that is very good news. Business has been great but it seems like the govenment is making it harder with the endless rules and regs that are coming out designed to help the consumers (say what?).
See ya soon!