“KISS” (Keep it Simple, Stupid) — Realtor Version

“Lockbox is on rail to left of side door (north), combo is “LMZ.”  Use large key to open deadbolt (turn to left); then use small key to unlock knob lock (sticky, may have to jiggle).  Alarm in laundry room down hall, then left; code is 49827 (press “enter,” then “off”).  To re-arm, enter 52171, then “active.”  Cats in basement, don’t let out.  To close side door, only use knob lock, pull shut.  Please turn off lights, leave card.  Thanks for showing!”

-Showing instructions, sample #1

“Lockbox is on front door (electronic).”

–Showing instructions, sample #2

Which home would you rather show a prospective home buyer?

keysNow, imagine that you’re not just showing one home, but six or eight in a row — and not only have to navigate to and from each home — possibly in multiple, non-adjacent neighborhoods — but simultaneously chat with your client(s) while managing not to run any stop signs or otherwise get pulled over en route.

And navigate an icy walk/unshovelled front steps once you arrive (not in July, but at least 4 months a year in Minnesota).

While your cell phone is ringing with confirmations for one (or more) of the homes you requested showings for.

The previous day (which is why Realtors can’t simply turn their phones off when they’re showing homes).

Now, THAT’s Multi-Tasking

Even if showing instruction #1 wasn’t a nightmare composite (vs. actual example) . . . you get the idea.

Which is why keeping the showing instructions as short and simple as possible is not only a courtesy to Buyers’ agents, but serves the Seller’s interests, too.

balls in airDitto for using a lockbox that’s actually from this century, vs. an archaic one that’s funky or simply non-functional (I’ve seen my share of the latter, especially on foreclosures).

Tip #2 for listing agents:  if there are multiple locks on the door Buyers are to gain access through, use one lock (presumably the deadbolt) for Buyers’ agents to open, and cover the others with masking tape (vs. telling agents in the showing instructions which locks to open and how to do it).

There!

I feel better . . . .  

P.S.:  And no, I’ve never actually encountered a key chain like the one pictured above, for the simple reason that it would never fit in a lockbox.

Omitted from the above:  besides tardy showing confirmations, the other incoming items causing your cell phone to vibrate are invariably showing feedback requests for homes that you may be currently showing (or haven’t gotten to yet).

About the author

Ross Kaplan has 19+ years experience selling real estate all over the Twin Cities. He is also a 12-time consecutive "Super Real Estate Agent," as determined by Mpls. - St. Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business Magazine. Prior to becoming a Realtor, Ross was an attorney (corporate law), CPA, and entrepreneur. He holds an economics degree from Stanford.

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