Understanding Client Relationships in Greenville Real Estate
In the vibrant city of Greenville, where home buying and selling is an everyday adventure, the importance of communication between real estate agents and their clients cannot be stressed enough. Recently, local expert Joan Herlong, from Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty, highlighted some common missteps agents make that can really annoy their clients. Let’s dive into her insights and see how maintaining good relationships in real estate is not just about closing deals; it’s about connecting with people.
Keeping Your Promises
According to Herlong, one of the biggest complaints from clients is when agents fail to do what they’ve said they would do. You know how frustrating it can be when someone doesn’t follow through—all those “We’ll keep in touch” promises that seem to evaporate into thin air. Herlong shares a story about an agent who lost a sale. The agent claimed it was because they “lost touch with the buyer.” But here’s the kicker: it’s not the buyer’s job to chase after the agent!
In real estate, clients expect agents to lead the way. When an agent neglects their responsibilities, it sends the message that they may not care about the client’s needs or the progress of their sale. As Herlong notes, “The easiest way to determine whether someone is going to be responsible is how they handle it when they screw up.” It’s not about being perfect—no one is! But owning up to mistakes is essential.
The Power of Language
One fascinating point Herlong makes is about the difference between using an active voice and a passive voice when addressing clients. Active voice signifies taking responsibility. For example, saying, “I’m sorry. I dropped the ball. I know I was supposed to call you, and I forgot,” shows accountability and sincerity. On the flip side, a passive voice, such as, “Gee, I’m sorry we’ve lost touch. I’ve been on vacation,” makes it sound like the agent is dodging responsibility.
When it comes to managing client relationships, how an agent communicates can make all the difference. Herlong says agents who genuinely apologize and acknowledge their mistakes have a much better chance of retaining their clients. It fosters trust and ensures the client feels valued and understood. After all, wouldn’t you prefer someone to take responsibility rather than brush off your concerns?
Embracing Imperfection
Real estate isn’t about being flawlessly perfect. It’s about showing a willingness to grow and learn from mistakes. Herlong emphasizes that when agents sell a property, they don’t say, “The property sold.” Instead, they take pride and say, “I sold it!” This sense of ownership should also apply when things don’t go as planned.
In a field where competition is fierce, such small changes in how agents communicate can be the distinguishing factor that keeps clients coming back or sends them straight to a competitor. By embracing their foibles and taking active responsibility for their actions, agents can significantly enhance their working relationships.
Final Thoughts
Being an effective real estate agent in Greenville is about much more than just closing sales. It’s about building relationships enriched by trust and respect. By actively communicating and taking responsibility, agents can create an environment where clients feel valued and understood. Joan Herlong’s insights serve as a gentle reminder that while real estate can often feel like a numbers game, at its heart, it’s about connecting with people and managing those connections with care.
