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Best Answer
- Michael Emery, "MikeEmery"
- Contributions:7298
If you have discussed the need to have your real estate agent preview properties and they are not doing so, dump em.
Otherwise, sit down with your agent and specifically spell out what their duties are to you (the person who is PAYING them) as well as what you desire in a new home. Somewhere along the way it sounds like a breakdown in communication. But if it's not, feel free to asked to be released from your representation agreement.
As an aside, I use to watch those home buyer shows on HGTV. Invariably the agent would haul their client to a home that was inappropriate for the buyer. Heck, even the casual watcher knew what they wanted, because the buyers told us!. Why they never told the agent is beyond me. Unless that agent likes hauling folks around like a demented taxi driver.
Otherwise, sit down with your agent and specifically spell out what their duties are to you (the person who is PAYING them) as well as what you desire in a new home. Somewhere along the way it sounds like a breakdown in communication. But if it's not, feel free to asked to be released from your representation agreement.
As an aside, I use to watch those home buyer shows on HGTV. Invariably the agent would haul their client to a home that was inappropriate for the buyer. Heck, even the casual watcher knew what they wanted, because the buyers told us!. Why they never told the agent is beyond me. Unless that agent likes hauling folks around like a demented taxi driver.
- Christiaan Bourdrez - REattle.com, "The Seattle Realtor"
- Contributions:6
I think your expectations are legitimate. I would ask your agent why they are showing you properties (you don't like or don't want) and see what he/she says. I like to show my clients listings whether I previewed them or not. If they fit the parameters, ie. location, beds, and baths then I feel they should see it. Sometimes my clients like a property for reasons they may not have realized until they are actually inside the home. On the flip side, when they see a property they like (and want to make an offer on) and they know the other comparable homes in the area, it gives them an idea of values and quality. Here in the Seattle area most homes are unique and must be seen in person to evaluate. Thanks for the question.
- Denny Giza, "dennygiza"
- Contributions:162
I do it all the time. It's actually easier because I can go at almost any time of day.
- Get on MLS $69 ! www.mlsisland.com, "flat fee mls realtor"
- Contributions:32
- Paul Klenk, "Paul K Olympia Agent"
- Contributions:503
You may have chosen a very busy agent.
You should let any agent you choose your wants and needs for the home and your expectations in them as an agent. They in turn should be clear in telling their client what time they can give you. If they have no staff and a full-time job besides helping you... they won't meet your exectations.
Choosing a buyer's agent should be nearly the same process as choosing a listing agent. We make money the same way, successful results! Make sure the agent you choose has local, full-time experience, and has many transactions similar to yours under his/her belt. Otherwise, why take the risk? Interview that agent.
Good Luck. Let us know how it went.
You should let any agent you choose your wants and needs for the home and your expectations in them as an agent. They in turn should be clear in telling their client what time they can give you. If they have no staff and a full-time job besides helping you... they won't meet your exectations.
Choosing a buyer's agent should be nearly the same process as choosing a listing agent. We make money the same way, successful results! Make sure the agent you choose has local, full-time experience, and has many transactions similar to yours under his/her belt. Otherwise, why take the risk? Interview that agent.
Good Luck. Let us know how it went.
- rt1361
- Contributions:1
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- Linda Strasberg, "L Strasberg"
- Contributions:2315
In our market, some buyers are submitting offers knowing their offer may never get accepted! One of my buyers had submitted 35 offers over an eight month time period using several other agents until I was able to get him two deals!
- Mack McCoy
- Contributions:1117
Cheryl, I don't know anything about Lincoln Hills, but here in Seattle, the floor plans are radically different, and even in vernacular styles such as split-level homes - the siting of the property, the light it receives, and the quality of materials and craftsmanship of the finishes are just three important things that can only be determined by a personal visit.
- Cheryl Hanron, "chanron"
- Contributions:30
In todays real estate world with web sites and virtual videos with lots of photos, maps, etc., it is not usually necessary to "preview" as in days of old.
Most good agents know the neighborhoods, floor plans and amenities of the neighborhood. Most also have seen the homes either on tour or showing to other clients.
I know I have seen the same floor plans over and over again in the neighborhoods I work in. Using web sites and aerial maps usually does the trick.
You should have good communication with your agent so they know what not to show you. On the other hand, the emotional side of buying a home, I have shown clients homes they "fell in love with" they would not have seen if I went just by their guidelines.
What it boils down to is good communication and trust with your agent and keeping an open mind.
Most good agents know the neighborhoods, floor plans and amenities of the neighborhood. Most also have seen the homes either on tour or showing to other clients.
I know I have seen the same floor plans over and over again in the neighborhoods I work in. Using web sites and aerial maps usually does the trick.
You should have good communication with your agent so they know what not to show you. On the other hand, the emotional side of buying a home, I have shown clients homes they "fell in love with" they would not have seen if I went just by their guidelines.
What it boils down to is good communication and trust with your agent and keeping an open mind.
- Mack McCoy
- Contributions:1117
Well, Michael, that's television. There's usually very little drama in shopping for real estate, so it isn't a surprise when the producers look to create some conflict, some tension, somewhere - to keep us watching.
A word of caution, however. Even a hired hand is deserving of respect, and "sitting down your agent and setting them straight" may provide a momentary rush of power, but it is not as productive as finding a knowledgeable agent who already likes to work the way you want them to.
A word of caution, however. Even a hired hand is deserving of respect, and "sitting down your agent and setting them straight" may provide a momentary rush of power, but it is not as productive as finding a knowledgeable agent who already likes to work the way you want them to.
- HomeSand.net, "White Picture"
- Contributions:4398
Maybe Agentblu15's prediction came true, I hadn't see NVchaz's posts in last few months.
- agentblu15
- Contributions:353
NVchaz:
"I pre-view the homes my self.
I am looking a REOs which are always empty. I can see alot through the windows and sometimes the houses are open (careless ... I found one where someone had been staying there -- ratty blankets in the corner and beer cans all around').
I wouldn't trust the opinion anyway... I want to look for myself."
Not only is that trespassing, but it's also a good way to get yourself hurt or killed. Playing that game, it's only a matter of time before you walk in on a squatter. Best case scenario is you'll scare them off-- worst case scenario is a brick to the back of your head or a knife in your side, and maybe an agent comes along in a few days and finds you while the body can still be identified.
"I pre-view the homes my self.
I am looking a REOs which are always empty. I can see alot through the windows and sometimes the houses are open (careless ... I found one where someone had been staying there -- ratty blankets in the corner and beer cans all around').
I wouldn't trust the opinion anyway... I want to look for myself."
Not only is that trespassing, but it's also a good way to get yourself hurt or killed. Playing that game, it's only a matter of time before you walk in on a squatter. Best case scenario is you'll scare them off-- worst case scenario is a brick to the back of your head or a knife in your side, and maybe an agent comes along in a few days and finds you while the body can still be identified.
- Jeff Rainwater, "jrainwater"
- Contributions:189
It all really depends. I live in Lake Stevens, WA and my office is in Everett, WA. If my clients are looking to buy a mobile home down in Puyallup, I'll certainly drive them down there and spend a saturday afternoon hitting up a few houses but am I going to spend a two hour drive down there on my own time to look at them myself first? probably not.
On the other side of it, I have had clients in luxury home range and I most certainly preview homes for them. Or if a client really seems to know and can convey what they are looking for and requests it, I have no problem previewing first.
My concern is that a lot of times people THINK they know what they want but then end up falling in love with something completely different. I like to see my client's reactions to different aspects of the home as it helps me determine what they REALLY want. I might think a home isnt what they want but if they saw it they might love it. Home buying is 50% needs and 50% emotional. When a house fits most of their needs and strikes that perfect emotional chord, that's the one. I can help with the needs part but often times, I have to have the clients see it to find the one that causes the emotional "THIS IS THE ONE" reaction.
On the other side of it, I have had clients in luxury home range and I most certainly preview homes for them. Or if a client really seems to know and can convey what they are looking for and requests it, I have no problem previewing first.
My concern is that a lot of times people THINK they know what they want but then end up falling in love with something completely different. I like to see my client's reactions to different aspects of the home as it helps me determine what they REALLY want. I might think a home isnt what they want but if they saw it they might love it. Home buying is 50% needs and 50% emotional. When a house fits most of their needs and strikes that perfect emotional chord, that's the one. I can help with the needs part but often times, I have to have the clients see it to find the one that causes the emotional "THIS IS THE ONE" reaction.
- Mack McCoy
- Contributions:1117
You've probably heard that a definition of Disappointment is: unfulfilled expectations.
Yet, we often do not make our expectations known, and suffer disappointment either in silence, or fail to give the other party to opportunity to satisfy us.
Someone like Pasadenan would be well-served to forget about what "most agents" fail to provide and look for the agent that has the skills that they require.
In fact, -all- real estate clients would be well-served to look for the agent that has the skills that they require, and negotiate with them to determine exactly what the expectations are for each party.
Agents, like our clients, often have a wide variety of skill sets. Many have been contractors, manage their own rental properties, have been interior designers . . . some clients find that what they need most from an agent is enthusiasm and energy.
Problems sometimes solve themselves, but other times, we have to take positive action.
Yet, we often do not make our expectations known, and suffer disappointment either in silence, or fail to give the other party to opportunity to satisfy us.
Someone like Pasadenan would be well-served to forget about what "most agents" fail to provide and look for the agent that has the skills that they require.
In fact, -all- real estate clients would be well-served to look for the agent that has the skills that they require, and negotiate with them to determine exactly what the expectations are for each party.
Agents, like our clients, often have a wide variety of skill sets. Many have been contractors, manage their own rental properties, have been interior designers . . . some clients find that what they need most from an agent is enthusiasm and energy.
Problems sometimes solve themselves, but other times, we have to take positive action.
- CulverCityRealtor
- Contributions:455
I consider the Preview part of my job as a buyer agent. I never take my clients to a property I have not seen at least once myself. It's not always easy to preview properties, some are by appointment only or have other restrictions. But regardless I would never waste my buyers time with property that does not meet their criteria.
You should make sure your agent is working full time and in your best interests. Yes, it is very reasonable to expect the agent to preview homes. You also need to examine the relationship - are you working exclusively with that agent. they may ask you to sign a buyer's agency agreement to ensure that the time is well spent. Have a frank discsussion, then decide!
- Melissa Riley, "mrsriley"
- Contributions:57
It is completely reasonable to request your agent to preview homes before taking you to see them. It may just be a breakdown in communication, but if it is not then certainly move on to an agent that will LISTEN! No one has the right to waste your time and expect to get paid for doing half a job.
- Linda Strasberg, "L Strasberg"
- Contributions:2315
If you're planning on looking at overpriced listings that aren't moving in our area...don't expect me to show them and or preview them.
- Linda Strasberg, "L Strasberg"
- Contributions:2315
I'll be sleeping on my tummy all night...you know what to do *-)
- Kent Davis Homes
- Contributions:74
After the first showing of a 'just not what you are looking for' house would have been a good time to set expections with your broker. As a buyers broker I want to know we are on the same page. If you want me to check 'em out first no problem - in fact I can get a better look at the house if I preview so I do try to work it in.
I have previewed thousands of houses for clients; it is how I know my market. I can do it fast - if all goes well takes me about 5 minutes to check it out once I'm there.
Some people want to see them all...some just have specific must haves, either way your broker should recognize what he is doing isn't working and communicate with you!
Kent Davis
I have previewed thousands of houses for clients; it is how I know my market. I can do it fast - if all goes well takes me about 5 minutes to check it out once I'm there.
Some people want to see them all...some just have specific must haves, either way your broker should recognize what he is doing isn't working and communicate with you!
Kent Davis
- Kevin Lisota
- Contributions:479
This is a totally reasonable expectation, particularly if you asked the agent to preview for you! Not all clients want us to preview homes, thinking they may miss something, but if your criteria are clear and geographic area well-defined, it would actually save both you and your agent a bunch of time if he previews beforehand.
Did you sign a buyer's agent agreement? See this post for more information about those agreements in Seattle. A reasonable agent will certainly release you from the contract if you are unhappy with his service.
Did you sign a buyer's agent agreement? See this post for more information about those agreements in Seattle. A reasonable agent will certainly release you from the contract if you are unhappy with his service.
- Pasadenan
- Contributions:21466
If a realtor specalizes in under $50k properties; the realtor will likely visit with or without clients as they likely have many clients in line. Those that specialize in lower cost either have a fixed negotiated fee, or they rely on volume. If they rely on volume, they will be systematic about checking what comes on the market in that price range.
BUT, why make them go there twice? And if it really is a good price, why add delay to schedule 2 trips? Wouldn't the buyer want to see it at first opportunity if the description, price and photos look ok?
BUT, why make them go there twice? And if it really is a good price, why add delay to schedule 2 trips? Wouldn't the buyer want to see it at first opportunity if the description, price and photos look ok?
well, this depends on what you are looking for. At luxury price points, you will find agents that provide this level of service. If you are asking your agent to pre-screen homes at $50K, good luck!
Tiitan:
"thats trespassing chaz."
Yup!, and I do it every day.
"thats trespassing chaz."
Yup!, and I do it every day.
- Pasadenan
- Contributions:21466
There are many realtors that "pre-screen" without really understanding the criterion and priorities at all!
I really don't want a realtor "pre-screening" anything for me, other than specific criterion that I've named. If I say, "let me know of EVERYTHING in a 5 mile radius that comes on the market with a list price of $200k or less; that is what I mean and I don't want to have someone excluding anything regardless of the arbitrary reason.
Now, whether I will want to go and see something is an entirely different issue. After reviewing the listing, location, photos, features, and price; I may exclude it; or I may want to exclude it.
A realtor's sense of what is required to correct for perceived "hidious" conditions can be way off. Most of them don't have much construction nor design experience. I will know much better how much time and money is required to correct what I perceive as real issues. Besides, their "taste" is never the same as mine since I don't see any of those silly advertisements that the majority of the public is brainwashed with.
On the other hand, If I say a property must have a garage on site for a specific type of car; or at least ample room to build one; I don't wan't them giving me large lists of properties that only have street parking, or parking 6 blocks away in a rental lot.
But as we've seen on these discussion boards, many realtors do have a reading comprehension problem.
I really don't want a realtor "pre-screening" anything for me, other than specific criterion that I've named. If I say, "let me know of EVERYTHING in a 5 mile radius that comes on the market with a list price of $200k or less; that is what I mean and I don't want to have someone excluding anything regardless of the arbitrary reason.
Now, whether I will want to go and see something is an entirely different issue. After reviewing the listing, location, photos, features, and price; I may exclude it; or I may want to exclude it.
A realtor's sense of what is required to correct for perceived "hidious" conditions can be way off. Most of them don't have much construction nor design experience. I will know much better how much time and money is required to correct what I perceive as real issues. Besides, their "taste" is never the same as mine since I don't see any of those silly advertisements that the majority of the public is brainwashed with.
On the other hand, If I say a property must have a garage on site for a specific type of car; or at least ample room to build one; I don't wan't them giving me large lists of properties that only have street parking, or parking 6 blocks away in a rental lot.
But as we've seen on these discussion boards, many realtors do have a reading comprehension problem.
- Geordy Rostad, "geordy"
- Contributions:991
There are plenty of good buyers agents out there to choose from. I've never made my buyers sign a buyer's agency agreement but I know there are a couple of schools of thought on this. I personally think that if I'm not doing a proper job as a buyer's agent, I don't want to keep a buyer obligated to use my services. Good service should speak for itself.
- Connie Wildasinn, "Connie Wildasin"
- Contributions:1178
Jim ... find yourself an agent you can converse with, listens to you... is not necessarly a yes/man, someone who tells you what you need but hears what you want... the process should be fun, keep in mind the right home will present itself when the time is right... don't force it.. you should have some time here to look ...
Food for thought... sometimes a buyers has their heart set on something... need 'x' beds 'x baths in this floor plan, open, little rooms, big rooms, big yard, no yard what ever... but you walk into a home and 'your heart says this is it' even if nothing in the house is what you thought you 'had to have' so in the saving face here for the agent... he could be doing you a favor especially if your geographic area is small... or you are in a hard to locate the home for the price you want to pay...
this is a big purchase and an important... keep your options and eyes wide open...
good luck!
Food for thought... sometimes a buyers has their heart set on something... need 'x' beds 'x baths in this floor plan, open, little rooms, big rooms, big yard, no yard what ever... but you walk into a home and 'your heart says this is it' even if nothing in the house is what you thought you 'had to have' so in the saving face here for the agent... he could be doing you a favor especially if your geographic area is small... or you are in a hard to locate the home for the price you want to pay...
this is a big purchase and an important... keep your options and eyes wide open...
good luck!
- titan10
- Contributions:826
thats trespassing chaz.
I pre-view the homes my self.
I am looking a REOs which are always empty. I can see alot through the windows and sometimes the houses are open (careless ... I found one where someone had been staying there -- ratty blankets in the corner and beer cans all around').
I wouldn't trust the opinion anyway... I want to look for myself.
I am looking a REOs which are always empty. I can see alot through the windows and sometimes the houses are open (careless ... I found one where someone had been staying there -- ratty blankets in the corner and beer cans all around').
I wouldn't trust the opinion anyway... I want to look for myself.
"It's a nice dream...this could make you lose out on a great deal! You know what they say...sometimes you have to step in some pony dung...to get lucky."
What the? Linda, have you been hitting the bottle?
What the? Linda, have you been hitting the bottle?
We would like my full service, full fee agent to preview homes before I see them.
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