[Note to Readers: The views expressed here are solely those of Ross Kaplan, and do not represent Edina Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, or any other entity referenced.] As a Realtor, I know better than to challenge an acquaintance who, almost sheepishly, explains that they would’ve liked to hire me, but instead were obliged to use their...Read More
Looking For a Realtor? Or (Lots & Lots of) Compliments? I heard about a prospective home Seller the other day who interviewed seven (!) Realtors to list their home (I wasn’t one of them). To be sure, the home was a multi-million dollar estate on Lake Minnetonka, but still ” seven Realtors?? I’m sure that...Read More
Home Buyer/Seller as Guinea Pig As a Realtor, I know better than to challenge an acquaintance who, almost sheepishly, explains that they would’ve liked to hire me, but instead were obliged to use their [insert relationship here**]. Far be it from me to poison — perhaps for years — an extended family’s Thanksgiving or Christmas,...Read More
Why a Realtor Team May Not Be the Best Choice for Buyers “If you’re looking for a heart surgeon, no one says, ‘Oh, Dr. Smith is so nice. Go to him. He just got into the business.’ But, you hear that a lot in real estate.” –“Finding the Right Broker Can Be the Key to...Read More
Now, THAT’S Full Service No, I’ve never (yet) competed for a listing, only to be told that I lost out to another agent who provided free childcare on closing & moving day. But, at least one Twin Cities Realtor offers that service to clients. Will it catch on? Personally, I doubt it. Slippery Slope At...Read More
How Similar to Client’s Situation? A good, newer Realtor can provide the names of three recent, (very) satisfied customers as references. A successful, established Realtor can provide the names of three recent, very satisfied customers, whose situation closely mirrors the prospective client’s. How many variations can there be? Actually, lots. Not Reinventing the Wheel Besides...Read More
