My wife and I celebrated fifteen happy years of marriage in early January. We started dating when I was 20 years old back in 1991. Starting as a teenager, though, I never really dated a girl for very long if I knew that I couldn't or wouldn't marry her. This may seem harsh, but to me it was just pragmatic. Why waste a lot of money and time if I knew it wasn't going to work out? I think I was pretty picky, but not unrealistically so.
In my opinion, this is an excellent analogy to consider if you are trying to choose a listing agent or buyer's agent in Austin, or anywhere, for that matter.
When you are choosing someone to assist you with what will likely be the largest single purchase that you will ever make, it's a lot like dating, but you (probably) won't be marrying your real estate agent. However, you will probably be spending a good amount of time around this person. As such, you want this to be a pleasant experience.
What are some key elements from the world of dating that can also help you to know if you have chosen the right agent? I am so happy that you asked:
Your agent is someone whom you need to respect. If you have any warning signs or feel weird around your agent, break up quickly. I promise you that it probably won't get better or easier.
I have been selling homes in the Austin, Texas area for over 11 years full-time. If you are looking to buy or sell a home in central Texas, call me first.
Jason Crouch, Broker/Owner - Austin Texas Homes, LLC 512-796-7653 (cell)
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I have been working as a full-time Austin area Realtor since January 1997. My years of experience serve me well as the broker and co-owner of Austin Texas Homes, LLC, which began operations in 2004.
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Jason,
Great analogy.....another great post.
Jason,
Good analogy...they used to say opposites attract...that only works with magnets...with people, you've gotta have something in common to feel comfortable!!! Thanks, Fran
LOL Jason!! This is great. Choosing an agent is a matchmaking process. Don't pick the flash and sweet talk, look deeper! This purchase is HUGE! It may take a while to find the right home so THINK about who you would want to go through this with you.
Very good list, Jason. I could also add "Is my agent lazy?" If so, it will cost you money. I love doing deals with lazy agents because my clients come out better. :)
Jason, I am in total agreement with the list, but think you shoud add one more: How about, "Is my agent more interested in getting a sale or being my advisor?" I've run across too many people lately that seem to be more interested in the next "deal" than actually listening to what their client has to say...
You are right, we can pick our nose and we can pick our clients, but we can't pick our client's nose :)
Hey, didn't we used to say that when we were in 5th grade!
Congrats on the 15 year anniversary!
EXCELLENT analogy ! Crouch slams another one straight out of the park ! Way to Go !
Jason... wow, 15 years? A bigg congrats.... and I was and still am the same way that you were when it came to dating... for the most part. In any case, great analogy.
I was a very impatient dater. I will say 'next' before the buzzer went off!!!
It's funny though...sometimes it just fits! A lot of my clients "fit". My wife and I dated for just 2.5 months before getting married over 6 years ago. (I had dated other women a lot longer but again, the "fit" was there and we got hitched).
Sometimes there isn't a fit and I'll be the first one to tell a buyer/seller "I don't think this is working out and I would be glad to refer you to another agent who might better serve your needs". It does happen sometimes...not often, but sometimes!
Shallow Lisa has just arrived on the scene. When I was single, I dated guys until I couldn't stand them anymore. LOL Hey, I didn't want to do stuff alone and I didn't have much money. =P Fortunately for all the single men who cross my path now, I am no longer available, so I'm no longer a threat. Shallow Lisa is now finished with her shallow comment.
And the agent should interview the client as well. A marriage is a two way street.
"If you have any warning signs or feel weird around your agent, break up quickly. I promise you that it probably won't get better or easier."
I think that one works both ways- If i feel weird about some one, I fire them! I haven't had to fire many, but I have let clients go.
I never dated anyone very long either- I usually got bored!!! Took till I met my husband in my 30's!! Congrats on the anniversary
Jason,
I've always told potential clients that I limit my practice to people I feel I can trust and respect and they shouldn't settle for anything less when selecting an agent.
Good post and more important than ever now.
JASON - I've had a few buyers that stuck around as long as a wife, but for the most part, that is not the case. People should definitely pick someone that makes them comfortable, and agents should do the same thing. It's not easy to turn away business, but some people are just not a good fit.
Oh Jason,
Too much cologne- that is a real red flag. Good post for home buyers. Thanks for sending it out
Brilliant my friend. If we play our cards right, those clients will be around as long as our spouses... the only difference is they'll be sending us referrals while our spouses just send us to the store for rocky road. :)
graphic = dangleberry. that's just wrong.
Jesse, I love your checklist, this has great uses on both sides of the transaction. Well maybe not the kissing part unless you are looking for a spouse/client!
Don R.
Jason great analogy...I love the post! Picking the right agent is certainly important as is picking your wife :)
Congrats on finding the right one the first time. As of today the DH and I have been married 13 years and together for 18 years. I kissed alot of frogs to find my prince...but glad I did...he is a keeper.
I enjoy the way you weave stories to make a point.
love the post, but have no desire to be kissin' my clients... lol
Depending on how they look and when the deal is done, I might be able to kiss at least one of them. Great post as always. Thanks for the information you share.
Great analogy. The kissing part had me laughing. Very good post.
This is so funny and so true! I have had great relationships with some of my clients and a few I was more than ready to have them "move out" and divorce me...
I'm going to run with number four and I have a new niche market now everyone. Super models or any member of the Swedish Bikini Team, I will sell or list any home you have!
Jason,
Great analogy! Funny how that the dating world translates into the Real Estate world so easily.
It's so important to pay attention to all the warning signs in the beginning of any relationship - whether it's a potential spouse or a potential client - listen to your gut and take action on it!
Great post, and soooo true! And I think you were right about dating, you shouldn't date anyone you wouldn't want to marry! Have a great week!
Jason, you dated yourself! You're OLD!
Just kidding!!!! :)