How to Be a Good Client

I recently had a conversation with my boys about qualities that I value in a friend.  As they grow up, they are trying to figure out why they are close with some kids and not others.  It's something I've never really thought about.  I like certain people because, well, I like them.  Sure, we are all attracted to kind, moral people.  But when I really dig into it, there are constants that all the people I've been close with possess.

Sense of humor.  I love when people make me laugh, I love to make others laugh, and as many of you know, I love to make myself laugh.  A good sense of humor is clearly at the top of my list.

Realness.  I am real and raw and I am drawn to others that are similar.  Fake, stuffy, condescending or conceited people don't work for me.  Really.  Get over yourselves.

Honesty.  Nobody likes a liar.  It is a serious character flaw in my book.  Don't make up stories.  Don't say you did something when you didn't and vice versa.  Don't pretend to be someone you're clearly not.  Tell me the truth, brutal or not, and I will always trust you.

In a perfect world, my clients would also have these attributes.  It would make my job a heck of a lot easier and more enjoyable.  So today, out of the kindness of my heart, I am going to give you some friendly advice on how to be a good client.

1.  Have a sense of humor.  Things rarely go as planned in a real estate transaction.  There will be all sorts of unexpected hiccups.  If you want to yell and scream and cry about weeds in the neighbor's yard, please, take a few deep breaths.  We will get through this, and it will be OK.  Learn to laugh a little.  Things could be worse...your new next door neighbor could be mowing his lawn in a Speedo and his bare double-d's every Saturday morning.  I'll take the weeds.

2.  Be real to yourself.  More importantly, be realistic.  Do you really need to look at homes way outside of what you are willing to spend?  Are you emotionally prepared to sell the home where your kids grew up?  Does your husband even know that you are out looking at homes?  Be introspective.  Think before you jump in feet first.

3.  Be Honest.  Please tell me the truth about who you are and what you want to do.  No, you are not a race car driver.  No, you are not waiting for a multi-million dollar settlement.  No, you have no desire to buy a home - you just like to look.   This is my job.  I don't do this for kicks and giggles.  If you have no intention of buying a home, or are just taking a ride on the crazy train, please just watch HGTV instead of calling me.

If you follow these simple rules, your real estate transaction will be pleasant and smooth and fun.  We will stay in touch and maybe even be lifelong friends.  I will work hard for you, look out for you, protect you and enjoy doing it.  And if you're lucky, I may tell you some REALLY funny jokes along the way.


Friends Forever,
Carrie

www.TheCarrieHolleGroup.com