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The current housing market can create stress among today's buyers and sellers. This translates into brokers having additional pressure to perform at higher levels. Factor in the colder weather and lack of inventory and the difficulties of showing properties becomes more evident.
Although more challenging, brokers might remember that showing etiquette allows for consideration to be given to all parties. Our Association provides guidelines on the proper etiquette that should be followed (http://aurorarealtors.org/rregs/etiquette.html). Although basic to our industry, few brokers educate new agents on how to show homes.
It all begins with setting the showing. The staff or showing service often have multiple callers and are juggling requests as they arrive. Have your information ready, times to view in mind and remember that the staff are not responsible if a broker failed to notify them of any status changes.
Schedule the showing as far in advance as possible. Never allow clients to have access to lockbox codes or enter a listing unaccompanied. The broker assumes responsibility for the buyers' actions and can face penalties under the law and Code of Ethics if their behavior is reported or anything criminal occurs. Call if you're running late or the need to cancel the showing arises.
When arriving at a listing, park on the street unless working with a special needs buyer. Sellers can be blocked in or out by the broker's vehicle. If the lockbox is already open, knock to determine whether the property is currently being shown. In the event the home is currently being viewed, guide the buyers around the exterior of the home or return to your car if the weather is inclement. Remember to follow any instructions provided by the showing desk including removing shoes, turning off lights, etc. which shows respect for the sellers that you may be working with.
A good safety precaution is to lock the door after your group is inside the home. Approximately five REALTORS® are killed annually and many more are attacked while performing real estate related activities. Keeping the home secure protects your buyers as well as demonstrates your concern for their safety.
Leaving a business card lets the seller know you were there and reduces the chances the listing agent will receive a phone call from an irate seller. Never criticize a property with the sellers present. Discuss any concerns outside the property. In this diverse world, remember to be respectful of the customs of other cultures. Keep your group together while in the home. Leave the home as you found it including turning lights off, locking doors, etc. Make note of any vandalism if applicable and notify the listing broker promptly.
Always return the key to the lockbox. Brokers may be tempted to remove the key on homes that are very desirable to deter competition; however, this is often an action that is trackable by the listing agent. Spin the lockbox to clear the code and prevent unauthroized re-entry.
These simple things seem like common sense but you may have experienced brokers who let the buyers dictate the process or fail to use showing etiquette. Take a minute to review the tips and remember we are most effective when we work together.
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