My New Years Resolution as a Realtor is to listen more creatively this year. What I mean by that is to pay attention to more than just what my clients say. Some things clients want isn’t communicated in words. Sometimes their actions or how something is said tells more than the words do. One couple I worked with as buyers last year clearly had a strained relationship. Buying a condo would be their first home purchase together. They weren’t ready to make that much of a commitment and ended-up backing out of the deal.
I also plan to ask more questions to better understand their wants and not assume that those wants won’t change as we travel through the home buying or selling process. One seller I worked with last year was focused on getting a specific minimum price when we started selling his house. A couple of months later, selling and moving up to a bigger house became more important. One couple I helped as buyers last year said over and over they wanted a ranch house, but ended up buying a 2-story. Priorities do change. Sometimes additional desires come to the surface.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Fran Bailey shows, previews and tracks downtown Chicago homes for sale giving her the insights needed to help her clients negotiate the best price and terms. Fran has been quoted in numerous Chicago and national publications. To schedule showings of listings regardless of broker or to contact Fran email her at fran.bailey@bairdwarner.com or call 773.793.4516. Learn More
Fran Bailey, Realtor
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Fran -
First of all, I think you are a way better than average, thoughtful listener. But I agree with you that for any of us who serve clients (or have ANY types of relationships) learning to REALLY listen at a deeper level is crucial. Besides doing mortgages for a living I do life and career coaching- and the key skills are asking great questions and listening. There’s a great title to a Van Morrison song which I think sums up the key issue “The inarticulate speech of the heart” — if you can hear that, all doors will open for you. Good resolution! And you’re so awesome now – holy cow – wait til next year, eh!!