A few weeks back, I received a mass mailing piece from a Realtor with a plea for buyers who would like to own a home in Belwood.
Sometimes real estate agents doorknock, saying that they “have a buyer”.
Is it likely?
Usually, no. Most often agents who utilize this approach are really just wanting to get a listing. I know, in those cases, it isn’t right. It’s a waste of your time. It’s dishonest.
Sometimes, though, the agent may really have a buyer and is truly going the extra mile.
How can you tell?
Well, I’m a Realtor and I’ll tell you what I do when I have a sincere, serious buyer with a particular need: I hand write the envelope and I hand write the letter. Additionally, I’m specific about why my client might want that particular house (not just any 4 bedroom home in Belwood). When I go to that much trouble, homeowners do take it seriously and I get an extremely high response rate.
But a letter sent to 500 homes? Forget it.
One more thing: if an agent does knock on your door and “has a buyer”, do you really want to enter into a dual agency situation? Do you think that having the same agent represent both buyer and seller is going to be in your best interests?
To get the most money for your home, you need the most qualified exposure. Then you’ll know that all interested or potentially interested parties had a chance.
So if you are thinking of selling your home, call me (or your favorite Realtor) and get the home on the market properly – full exposure. Forget the secret sales.