Appraisers vs. Realtors vs. Trulia “257-0”. That’s the number of times — including twice just this morning — that I’ve been called by appraisers wanting the “scoop” on a property I’ve sold, vs. the number of times I’ve called an appraiser to find out the same. Which makes sense: as the listing agent, I’m thoroughly acquainted...Read More
(Over)identifying with Home Sellers “Stockholm Syndrome”: a paradoxical psychological phenomenon wherein hostages express adulation and have positive feelings towards their captors that appear irrational in light of the danger or risk endured by the victims, essentially mistaking a lack of abuse from their captors as an act of kindness. –Wikipedia What’s potentially more harmful to...Read More
How About Naming a Few? “Too many special features to list.” –Excerpt, MLS listing I guess I would be more persuaded of that fact if the Listing Agent had used the rest of the allotted space under “Public Remarks” to actually name a few of them. Or had bothered to complete the (empty) “Agent Remarks” field, just above; appended...Read More
Why does that Realtor you know look so tired? In today’s market, it’s likely that they’re actually selling each listing three times. The first time is to the prospective Seller, whose market expectations . . shall we say . . . may be a little out of date. That means patiently educating them about Comp’s; helping them...Read More
Prelude to a DealCourting my wife in Manhattan in the late ’90’s, I remember my (quick) progression from “Friend,” to “Special Friend,” to “Boyfriend,” to “fiance,” to “husband.” (The only interim title that I really objected to was “Special Friend,” which sounded vaguely insulting.) Is there a similar progression in a real estate “courtship?” Reading...Read More
When Do You Tell the Seller? The Buyer’s Agent called you up after the first showing to say it went well, and to ask a few questions about the house’s condition. The second showing was yesterday. Then, mid-afternoon today, the Buyer’s Agent called to say that she is meeting with her client tonight to write...Read More
