Written by Jim the Realtor

June 10, 2020

In response to the coronavirus, the California Association of Realtors issued several disclosures that need to be signed electronically before showing a home.  In addition, Cal-OSHA has mandated strict policies about wearing PPE, cleaning the home before and after showings, etc.

It’s a whole new level of distractions for agents, and because management has made it clear how important it is to comply (five Compass agents have already been turned in by outside realtors for non-compliance), there’s usually more attention on masks, gloves, and booties than on selling.  Some agents even insist on pre-qual letters and/or bank statements just to see the house.

I’m all for compliance!

But the buyers are going to tire of the additional hassles……unless they are really interested in the house.

Thankfully, the situation is also forcing realtors to be more adept at video production and virtual showings, so buyers are getting a better feel for a home before deciding to see it in person – which also means that the buyers who do go to the trouble of jumping through the hoops are probably real contenders.

Realtors won’t mind no open houses, fewer looky-loos, and only showing homes to legitimate buyers!

But agents better be ready to go.

It’s already happened three times this year where I sold my listing to the first buyer who saw it!

The old broker saying that “your first offer is your best offer” may be more true now than ever.

Benefits of Selling To The First Buyer:

  1. Maximum negotiating power
  2. Fewer repair hassles
  3. Stop the showings
  4. End the uncertainty
  5. Get Your Money Sooner!

With the improved internet tools, buyers are more prepared than ever to buy your home – and they want to get it over with now, before they have to sign another form or wear another booty!

4 Comments

  1. Truth

    Well most sellers don’t heed to you suggestion. Last year I offered $925k for a $975 asking price on the market for 35 days, the seller was insulted and did not counter, house was on market for 122 days went pending for $930K. I guess they don’t consider carry costs a expense?

  2. Jim the Realtor

    The ego is more powerful than money – more powerful than anything when selling!

    Thanks Truth!

  3. Anonymous

    JTR I have been told you are the “Zen master” of real estate. The scenario was I came in with 20% down with 810 fico preapproved from my PW bank. The house was not a “cream puff” it needed at least 35-40K of upgrades and repairs. I subtracted off price, felt offer and 30 day close was sufficient. How to you play to that type of dudes ego ? He received 5k more in 90+ days. So he perceived that as a victory?
    Selling Agent was weak and scared of own seller, told us it was a great offer, then collapsed.

    Thank you for all you do for us neophytes

  4. Jim the Realtor

    I don’t know about zen anything – heck I haven’t done a headstand in a while! But I appreciate the thought and I’m inspired to hear from you!

Klinge Realty Group - Compass

Jim Klinge
Klinge Realty Group

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CA DRE #01527365CA DRE #00873197

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