This post was inspired by the worst real estate agent I've come across in the trenches... okay, "the worst" can be subjective to a particular situation, but believe me when I say, he shouldn't be in a customer service related field!
If you want to earn a reputation as the worst real estate agent in the area, it's not hard to do. Just follow these 5 simple rules:
Do not return phone calls, EVER. This is very important because you need to establish a complete and total lack of respect for the other parties involved in your transaction.- Do not get required documents returned to the proper parties on time. Avoid, delay, and postpone all reasonable deadlines to ensure the most volatile atmosphere among all parties.
- Make the other agent do all the leg work. Have them really earn that commission check by getting them to pick up your slack in any conceivable area of the transaction. If they want to get paid, they will surely go the extra mile by picking up where you leave off.
- Defer blame and accountability to the other side of the transaction when your buyer/seller realize that things aren't going smoothly. Be sure to not sound defensive, but instead mimic their anger at any hiccups in the process. This will make you sound more convincing.
- Repeat.
I am a nice person, and I'm a damn good real estate agent. This week however, I lost my cool with the above mentioned agent. He did all of these things and then some. My clients really wanted this rental property and I have to tell you, it was a fight to get it for them even though they had impeccable credit and good income. It was because I cared about my clients and getting them into this house that I did everything I could to make it happen including spending 2 hours in the car delivering contracts and getting signatures, because of course he couldn't be bothered.
I ratted him out to his broker. I feel guilty, but only a little bit, (and only 'cause I'm a nice gal.) He was a jerk, and I told him that to his face. (okay, it was really his ear since I said it over the phone.) He didn't respond. Really. He said "okay". Then he moved on like nothing had happened. His arrogant tone made me realize my rant fell on deaf ears.
That's okay. I'm pretty sure he won't be in business next year, and I think that will be fine by everyone that has been involved in this transaction!
Catchy title...PEACE BE STILL Julie...I hope things smooth out on this.
Wow, sorry that happened to you. I know how you feel. I wish people did not expect for the other agent to do all the work. I had a similar experience about 3 months ago. It is very frustrating. Good luck and God Bless
I feel your pain - I see this all the time - as an appraiser I know the slackers - I know the jurks - the only reason they have a license is because they had no other place to hang their hat for 4 hr. a day
You are in an industry where the cultural practices are a tad different than other industries. I would say about 95% follow your 5 rules; thus, roll on and you be you and don't let the 95% affect you and it can reduce you attitude.......or go have a drink.
This should be a members only post. Not nice to cast negativity.
Jim: Oops, my mistake. I thought it was members only... although it might serve the public well to know we are not all like that. Too many in the public already think poorly of us.
Tim: Oooh, a drink? That is a fantastic idea! I'm 6 months pregnant, and this transaction has a few drinks on back order! I'm running myself a tab though, lol.
Logan: The agents that do it seem to get away with it because we would never stoop to those levels. I guess I can live with the scenario because I know I'm better for it.
Chuck: Thanks! And thanks for stopping by.
Hello Julie,
I've been there also & know how difficult it is when you have ready and willing clients.
You didn't make a mistake posting this for all to see. The public you work with should know what they are up against when the 'other side' is poorly represented. This is a read for them!
Don't even listen to anyone here in the comments, one in particular, who would try to make you feel guilty by quieting you. This is manipulation and you don't need to apologize to anyone.
Keep up the great service and you'll have plenty of business.
Catchy tile indeed!
Linda... I think you are right! ;)
Julie, I'm on the lending side and I see both sides of the transaction. It is hard to believe sometimes how some stay in business. Lenders have their winners in the business as well.
Rick: I believe it 100%! I have to say, I've seen even worse abuses by some attorneys in the business.
So Julie, tell us how you really feel about this other agent. Seriously, we've been in the exact same situation and it really is a nighmare dealing with an unprofessional agent. Our job is hard enough when the other agent is doing what they're supposed to be doing. Good title for your post.
Julie: Sorry you ran into this Realtor but sooner or later it happens. Always take the higher road and if think that there might be a higher road than that, then take that one.
"Breath In, Breath Out, Move on"- Jimmy Buffett
Continued Success
Julie,
Hang in there! On the rare occasions when we run across one of these situations we always joke "it's like childbirth". After the happy ending with our client, all the pain is forgotten and we get to enjoy the result! Keep up the great work on your clients behalf, good service (and Karma) always come back to you!
Glad you took the high road and went above and beyond for your client!!
julie,
Right On! You called the other agent out & we all should! Go get em!
Julie, I find these type of agents slowly going out of business. If I don't return a phone call, it's because I'm on the other line or it's after 10:00 PM. Good for you for ratting him out.
Julie,
I've been there, too, and... it sucks (sorry for the language). I just hope that the worst offenders are on their way out of this business. And, there are brokers out there who are not much better. I'm glad you complained, it's the right thing to do.
Ignore Jim's comment. I am tired of being P.C. just because P.C. is "en vogue". It is a shame that the lack of customer service is so mainstream yet we can not voice our complaints. And by the way...might I add....these other agents are our clients too! They do not realize that if you have been rude, lazy, a cheat, liar, etc... no one will want to do business with you. I certainly try to stay away from crappy agents like your story referred to. I am passing your blog on to my broker and a few other crappy agents that need a ton of self improvement. Many thanks. Don't be afraid to speak up!
That's hilarious. I'm going home now...but happily with a good laugh to end the day. Sorry to hear of your frustrations....we've all been there!
Too funny Julie and true,
I sometimes wish I could say, here's your 3% or whatever, now give me the buyers name and number - go away - because you just know how it is going to go if we have to depend on you!
Julie, it is tough when you are working with an agent who is a slacker. Just go ahead and get it done as it will not be if you don't do it. Getting angry only hurts you, but difficult not to do in those situations. Being pregnant would allso make it a little tougher to deal with.
Maybe your next transaction will be with some agents like some I've had experience with; lure them to your company if you can.:) It is nice to work with someone who does such a good job you recommend your broker recruit them. These are the kind of agents we hope will last in this business. When you find one of those, appreciate what they do and let them know it. Makes for a WIN-WIN situation and a friend in real estate.
Sheila
Love it! Just had a SEO company do numbers 1 and 5
I have had similar experiences with "part-time" and "limited service" agents. It's my personal opinion that there's no possible way I could keep on top of my huge market on a part-time basis. And that doesn't even begin to take into account the liability issues for not being current on details unique to your market. A good example in our market is mineral rights which came front and center as a local market issue about two years ago when the Barnett Shale reservoir became an integral part of our economy. Most agents at that time had no idea to even ask their sellers about whether or not they had rights or wanted to retain them.
And then there's the agent who's not even aware of the purpose of some of our state forms. I had a very forgiving buyer/client who ended up not getting some non-realty items which were part of the contract. The sellers left and took with them what they had agreed to leave behind. When I approached the agent about it she claimed that I was "sneaky" by putting the items into the contract (in a section where they belong) and that I "will reap what I sow ... that's in the Bible". My client's only recourse was small claims court which she elected not to pursue.
Slacker agents? Yep. But I've learned a lot from them. And bless them, they help keep me at the top.
Bless your heart dealing with an agent like that! Unfortunately they are out there, I am dealing with one similar myself but instead of avoidance I get patronized!!! Good Job reporting it to their broker, there is no need for attitude these days!
Love it!
Luckily most of those people are out of the business down here in San Diego, but if you work enough deals, law of odds says that you will find these "winners."
Hi Julie - I got a great laugh out of your post. While I have been pretty lucky so far, I had a transaction very similar to the one you described. It brought back some memories!! Keep your sense of humor and keep the entertaining posts coming!
Dear Julie,
I could tell you some true stories that have happened to me working in real estate over the last fourteen years. All you can do is your best, and hope that the other "professional" does their best as well, try to stay cool calm & collected. Best wishes for better experiences.
Julie,
So, how was this other real estate agent involved in your rental transaction of a property? Is the property for sale also? Is he a listing agent? How did he fit in the situation---I have had horrible experiences, much like this but it is always a listing agent on a house that is for sale and for rent that gets in the way of a smooth rental transaction; a listing broker that I had a problem with was the exclusive agent on the house and he did everythign inhis power to NOT get the property rented. He ended up letting the tenant sign the lease and then proceeded to sell the house very quickly and the only recourse the tenant has was to sue the owner of the house for missrepresentation....do I need to tell you that the tenant did not want to go through all that and just went looking for another house to rent, feeling like she had been totally "shafted!
Rock on, Julie...
In the last year, I have had a "realtor" (and i use the term loosely) who was a buyer's agent have the conversation..."just between you and me..." not return documents, disclosures, put me on speaker phone without telling me first...I think it is completely frustrating to work with people like that, and I would imagine the public does too.
Good luck with your new addition to the family, and join the ranks of us who show property with kids in the car. And fingerprints, candy wrappers, homework papers and old lunches under the seat! Lisa
Good on you, Julie, for telling him about his shortcomings. "Okay" is probably what he thinks his service level is, too.
I feel your pain Julie. You speak the truth. Remember though-- We have no control over 90% of the events that happen to us , but we have 100% control as to how we respond. Best wishe on your pregnancy.
Been there, done that!!!--Good for you for making it happen in spite of the other agent.
Julie-- Boy oh Boy-- been there ,done that. Unfortunately it was several agents in my office I was dealing with and as a (former) rookie I did not know better.
I also have to add a clause to #1-- avoid putting voice mail on your phone --this eliminates having to call people back due to lack of messages. Truly-- I know an agent who refuses to put voice mail on her phone so she does not have to deal with returning calls.
Those people will be out of the business soon. Karma is a _______! You know the ________ stand for! There's obviously something bad going on in their life, and they are trying to pull you in. Remain above these type of people and it'll make moving on from this a lot easier. You're on the right track, keep doing what you're doing! Have a good one & stay positive!
Sounds very familiar, maybe we had this agent? I believe you are correct and they will wear out their welcome by next year.
You GO girl!
You said what I'm thinking of when I encounter those types--which is very often. It's sad that some agents take an attitude of entitlement. At least the 5% of us who take this role seriously and are in this business to serve a common good will stand out. Here's the positive----This agent is actually a gift to us so we can stand out in the crowd! I always always remember my clients come first so going the extra mile brings back a ton of return.
Good luck to you and like someone earlier said "Deep Breathes!"
Wow, thanks everyone! I was doing good at keeping up with all the comments until now! We just got back from going out to dinner and I came home to a long list of comments! Thanks for reading my post!
I had been absent for quite a while on AR, but made a reappearance last week. I missed this place, and now I remember why! Thanks for stopping by and sharing the encouragement. We can all use a good laugh and a shoulder to cry on in this market :)
Good for you! I've been doing this since dinosaurs roamed the earth, and the bad guys come and go. Statistics say 90% are gone by the end of their 2nd year. While I detest co-oping with them and doing their job and mine, I've actually picked up business from THEIR side later down the road.
I think we all have to remain as professional and ethical as possible all the time;however, I also believe that if we stay quiet on the ones who violate those codes and/or laws, we become part of the problem. I'm basically a nice gal, but I do have what I call my Inner Pit Bull. She'll strain at the leash occasionally but if she starts to snarl, move over.
I'm amazed that nobody has posted about what harm is done to the public with this kind of agent. Not paying attention to timelines, etc. can cost the client certain rights. Next word we can expect to hear will be "litigation". This is a REAL business, not a part-time hobby or a charitable institution. I was taught we exist to give great service to the public. In return we get paid and can set our own schedule while forming friendships with clients who send repeat and referral business.
I'm behind you 100% Julie for calling out these types of agents. Realtors as a whole get a bad rap because of agents like that and it's time the public knew that some of us will go the extra mile because we care about our clients.
I know a level of professionalism is required but, if we don't speak out about the bad agents, what incentive do they have to be better? None.
Julie Ferenzi
Funny thing on the way to the office today...I had an RE agent who knew his job and did a great wonderful job...there are a bunch of awesome Realtors out there ..FOR SURE
Hey Girl..this was a big hit..lets see if ur a sharer...how did you get this posted and sent to 132,233 Realtors..
Thanks i nAdvance
Gary D
Sounds like some of the agents we have worked with in the past....our motto is "all real estate agents are not created equal"...hopefully better days ahead for you. Maybe with the way the market is at the present time, agents who have no business being in the business will get out and leave it to us professionals :o)
Julie, after 25 years in the business, I've been there! What I have found, however, is that many of the unprofessional agent's see it and when they're ready for their next real estate transaction they call me! I recently had a closing where I represented the buyer and at the closing table the seller shook my hand and stated "thanks for everything, Maria. We know we wouldn't be closing if not for your efforts". Definitely worth my extra efforts.
Gary: I have no idea how it got sent to that many Realtors? I'm not sure I understand? Like I said, I haven't been around in a while...
Ok Julie,
I didnt see anyone ask, did you get his part of the commission too, since you did HIS job and yours? LOL sorry this happened to you. I also have to wonder why someone would tell you it was wrong to post your experience here, did it hit a nerve?
What a great post! I see the same thing in all aspects of every industry I work for. (I'm an Architectural Photographer and Virtual Tour Business Owner) This is simply one of those posts that I think everyone, even the public should read. Too many Homeowners and Investors alike do not do enough homework when choosing a professional service. It is much like my industry and any other industry in the way that there are cut-throats, smack-talkers, sleepy-heads and people who simply believe that the world owes them something. The ones who actually step up to the plate and "Over- Deliver" will succeed, and the other guys will eventually find another industry to bother.
Excellent!
Hi Julie,
I don't know what goes on with some of the agents in our industry. I had a lease with a broker and she allowed her assistant to do all of the work. MY tenants were looking for a home to lease and they had great credit as well, they just needed somewhere to go until their home was completed.
From day one we had problems. First of all, we couldn't get into the home because the keys were not in the lockbox. Second of all, they made me complete the actual Exclusive Right to Lease Agreement. Thirdly, I had to threaten reporting them to our state Real Estate Commission because they took over a month to pay me for the transaction.
Now everytime I see a listing with this company in MLS, I scroll right past it...very quickly.
You did the right thing in going the extra mile for your client, they will remember you for that.
I feel your pain, Julie! I have been down this road with these types of agents on many occasions now. In fact, I would say that this is the norm in California for agents who represent REO properties. Once I realize I am dealing with these agents, I just do my best to get my clients the house, and keep my chin up, knowing that I am about to have to do all the work. I just try to maintain a good attitude, then once its all over, do exactly what you did - let the agent know what a pain it was to have to deal with him.
Congrats on the pregnancy!
Hi Julie...It would be interesting to know how long this agent has been in the business. Do you have any idea? Some have a tendency to hang in, in spite of doing their job poorly.
David probably meant that all AR members received an e-mail with your post mentioned along with some other well written ones.
Congratulations.
Kate
Oh man, all this time I've been doing it backwards :) J/K!
Wonderful post Julie, very worthy of the feature. Keep it up!
From your discription you got a real winner of a sociopath. No kidding. The two big clues were that the agent deferred blame and mimiced his client's anger plus he didn't care when you called his hand. He got paid and so what. Very typical. He'll hang around until he finds something better or is forced out.
I think I know this guy! Maybe I was married to him once. I seem to have to work a transaction with him every other year or so and he keeps popping up in other places with a new name and having gone through extensive plastic surgery.
Sorry you wre exposed to his insufferable actions.
Keep smiling. There ARE lots of of GREAT agents out there.
A great reminder to go the extra mile for all parties in the transaction
You go, girl!
You need not feel the least bit uncomfortable letting others know when our fellow real estate professionals do not hold up their end of the transaction.....to say nothing of the fact that the other agent clearly did not care.
I am one who takes pride in doing a great job for my clients and if I ever were to fall short, I would hope my comrades would let me know.
There is nothing wrong with you going to the agent's broker - after all, that agent is working under that broker's license....most broker's care to be well represented within their community. I assure you that if I were the broker, I would want to know when the agents who work for me were taking care of their business so poorly.
Why that other post acted as though we have to always be politically correct about bad agents - no way. It's not "casting negativity".....it's simply telling it like it is. Those uncaring/unethical agents make it harder for the rest of us to be respected and taken at our word.
Did you happen to catch yesterday's Realty Times? It stated the results of the most recent Harris Poll that stated that only 20% of the respondents would completely trust a Realtor to convey the truth to them. Realtors were just one step up from stockbrokers....not quite a feather in our caps!
You done good!!!!
Julie, I wanted a good laugh so I opened up your blog to read, instead of laughing, I realized that I once worked with that agent, but I don't know how it is possible since I am licensed in a different state! I guess he sure gets around!!!!
I had an agent like that a few months ago. I told him that if he really wanted to continue down this path of being a "jerk" (I used another word that starts with an A), then I would have no problem calling his broker and informing him of the ethics complaint I would be putting against the agent. He quickly shut up after that and was nice from there on out.
You really stirred up the pot on this post! Hopefully the market will drive out non-performers. It is certainly enjoyable when all parties pull their weight and work together to solve challenges. Thankfully, that is the case in most situations. Hopefully we all will see more of that in the future. Best wishes.
Julie, the fact that this was a rental property does not surprise me. Positively the worst attitudes I have come across in real estate are the professional "rental agents" who do property management. I get the feeling its just a numbers game for them, and as long as they do their paperwork according to established office procedures, they could care less about the real people involved. I have never met one who went out of their way to be courteous, But maybe that's just my rant!
PS--how do you guys get your photos inserted and nifty little icons under them, and what do they mean??
Julie,
I think you got it backwards. It sounds like you are a nice real estate agent and a damn good person. I hope that your clients appreciate your hard work and dedication. Hell, I hope the people on the other side of the transaction appreciate your hard work since you did both jobs!
The great thing about the type of market we are in is that it shines a magnifying glass on mistakes. This guy is lucky to still be doing any transactions. And luck will only carry you so far in this business after that wears off you may want to think about developing some integrity.
Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote: "A little integrity is better than any career."
Keep your chin up, you have both.
Julie - well I had to laugh at your telling of the story and you commentary, but certainly not at the situation. Been there done that too and it drives me nuts as I'm sure it did you. There just is no excuse to such lack of professionalism and customer service. And he would likely be the first to gripe if something did not go the way he wanted it to. Glad you got through it.
Jeff
Stay dry and have a good weeekend! You did make me crack up today!
Barbara
The questions is really, what "we" will do about it. There are really too many "bad" realtors in this industry, but there is no good mechanism to get them out of the industry.
We have a bad reputation and deserve it. I wrote to the NAR about it, and suggested we at least increase the barrier to entry. But so far, it has fallen on deaf ears.
Any suggestions as how to get these bad apples out?
Julie, very good post. What goes around comes around, and if they stay in the business then they will need your cooperation sometime.
Julie,
I feel your pain! The last 3 deals I have done were with (agents) that have other jobs??? And are not available at all. I pretty much worked them as a dual agent. I love this job, work hard , full time and do well ...thank God!
I actually had an agent tell me " I dont have time for this crap" , when I called about a major problem...Ok ...real nice attitude...
In the end, believe me, your clients appreciate your concern and dedication for their best interest and will refer you for your efforts. That is the key to our business...referrals , referrals, referrals...l....
What goes around , comes around ...
This is the kind of behavior that gives us a bad name and should be reported to the managing broker....
good luck to you!!
Any job is going to have it's share of frustrations. The challenge is dealing with them.
Life is short. Don't let the stress tear you up. I think "Escrow" would be a nice name for the baby
Julie,
When I first got into this business, I had a desk across from another agent named Ned.
Whenever Ned got off the phone from a bad/frustrating/annoying/etc... type phone call, he would sit back in his chair, smile and say "Don't let the bastards win!"
I've adopted this into my world... It is a great stress reliever and it helps you live out Jimmy Buffet's quote "Breath In, Breath Out, Move on"- Jimmy Buffett (appropriatly quoted above by Doug Dyer)
You're right.... He probably won't be in the business next year...
Move on....
-Bill
P.S. My wife just gave birth to our Son, Steve two weeks ago. Good luck with your pregnancy! Everyone says "A baby changes everything". So far, I've found that to be an under-estimate but worth it! ;-)
Being on the mortgage side of the transaction, I know what it is like when that type of agent passes the blame...It usually comes my way. Like you said they probably wont be in business too long with that attitude so we just brush ourselves off and move on. don't get too worked up sine you are pregnant. I have a 2 month old and you need to relax as much as you can while pregnant. Hope the next transactions run a lot smoother!
Take care of yourself and the precious little baby!
Bill: Congratualtions!!! This is our #5, so if that's any indication that things do get easier... they do! P.S. I like the name. This will be our 4th son so we are running low on boys names! ( but I like Steve Wisemiller's suggestion of "Escrow")
I believe that it is inevitable that we end up in transactions that try our patience. It's just the nature of the beast. I also believe we should do our best to keep the emotions in check due to the fact that it is business. Maintaining a positive attitude and not allowing our frustrations to overtake our professionalism are of the utmost importance in Real Estate and business in general.
That really sucks, but you were able to persevere and make your clients happy!
Had one of these last week! I cut and pasted your blog and said "great blog, you should read it".
Probably won't get a responce.
Julie,
I going to jump on this bandwagon also. Over the last 2 days, I've had 2 agents not return calls in regards to showing their properties. I've called each one 3 times each. I've called one of these agents over 6 times in the last 45 days with no return calls at all. It really boils down to just being plain unprofessional. I think what is worse, is both of these agents are on a team, so they actually represent their Lead Agents.
So, I'm breathing in and breathing out and moving on.
Scott
Great post Julie!....
Those of us that DO own up to our responsibilities, AND take on the responsibilities of those that DON'T...well..WE are the ones that will shine ultimately!
Sleep well with a good conscience girl!
~Laura
You go girl! This is great. A big problem occurs when people are not held to high enough standards......The industry gets a bad name. Not all agents suck but the few that do give the others a bad name. Glad you took a stand. Patti Kouri
Kevin: That is awesome! You will have to let me know if they respond!
I had a deal with an agent that owns a company and her husband is the broker. The property closed on the 11th and we funded yesterday the 25th-yep-the 25th. Not only was the seller short on funds, it turned into a nightmare. They drafted their own addendum and used the wrong one at that, and put their monetary needs and interest of herself above her clients.
It is a long story but they definitely did not return phone calls, get forms signed and returned and were basically jerks. I have decided to pursue a formal complaint with TREC. I don't like being classified with agents like that.
They gotta' go-elsewhere.
Good luck to you and more people need to speak up
Great Post! I had a transaction like this last June. The listing agent for a foreclosure property would send me bank addendums requiring signatures that were already 5 days past the "deadline" for ratification. His response when the deal fell apart over title issues: "I have a hundred of these, I can't keep track of them all."
Sadly, he has a lion's share of REO business and neither he nor his broker care about one disgruntled buyer and the buyer's agent. Don't these asset managers know or care who represents them??? BTW: It's February and the house still hasn't sold. Must be all that Karma!
Keep the faith and focus on the important things...your 4 kids and the one on the way. God Bless. Debra
Julie,
I can certainly relate to your story as I had a doozey a while ago myself. Nothing like carrying the weight on the entire deal in your shoulders and then someone undeserving agent gets a pay cheque for what exactly? "Nuff said and I am glad that you took on the challenge and serviced your buyers in a way that they will more than likely remember. Take care and happy blogging!
You touched a nerve here, Julie! Good for you for saying something to the broker. An agency in my area is known as the 'bad guys', whose listings I show cringing and who always ask me in a whisper to do very bad things when working on deals together (of course I don't and threaten to report them to the RE Commission). Their attitude is an I-don't-care, shoulder shrugging pass off the work to me whateverness and they NEVER return calls, while I run around delivering docs, tracking down keys, etc. Almost every agent in this office has the same MO and it all starts with their broker. If I were to call him to complain about an agent, he'd likely 'yes' me to death and them hang up the phone laughing and never give it another thought. HOW do these people stay in business??
I wish you well and know you will have many years of continued success in business and in life. Congrats on the imminent arrival!
Carolyn
I think you had the agent I had during a summer transaction. I had NO pproblem reporting him to his broker and if I hadn't I"d probably STILL be waiting for it to close.
It's funny about this post because I was just fuming today about the utter lack of professionalism displayed by so many agents- especially the REO listing "machines" in my neck of the woods. They NEVER return phone calls and I can't understand this. Like another poster said, I've called agents several times on their listings that I couldn't get into and to this day they've never called back. I understance the occasional missed call or deleted message but if I've called you 2-3 times and you still don't return my calls, then I move on. I just want to know where the ego comes from? Aren't we all supposed to by working towards the same result?
Thank you for posting this and I agree the public NEEDS to see this!
Micki
Julie, it is AMAZING to me the attitude of some Realtors. I had one the other day give me attitude, because I called on his REO listing that was in pending sale status. I just wanted to see if the buyer was solid, or if he would accept a back up contract. With his attitude, I should of gave him the back of my hand, instead of a back up contract.
Julie,
Sorry to hear about your bad experiece! It is A Bummer to say the least. We all meet & work with them and shake our heads when we see they way they operate. Sometimes, it is just Sad.
Try not to let it get to you too much. Its not worth it! : )
Take Care & Fly High In 2009!
Hmm, when I read your list a few agents in our area popped into mind! I would imagine our market will weed these type of agents out.
It sounds like a "how to" of NOT doing your job! Wow ... they need to get a clue :-)
I fully understand, I blogged about a similar transaction not long ago - the other agent was not only part time, he was the broker and sole agent combined! His keys were in another condo's lockbox, he never returned calls to show the condo in the first place (the first time we showed was by accident, the keys fit and we were doing so many condos that day we thought we were at the right one due to poor numbering on the units and his key being in the other condo's lockbox!! but after that when we tried to show he wouldn't answer his phone to let us schedule so I finally had to call and say "I'm showing at this time if that's not convenient, call me back by X time to let me know." I had to track down the condo resale cert and other paperwork from the management company (which he didn't want to pay me for later), then he wouldn't answer his phone to negotiate the contract or the building inspection. It was horrible and took a LOT of time and effort on my part. He got his commission, but I got a happy buyer and I've now sold her land to build on, sold her grandmother's home, and gotten multiple referrals from her family. I don't know what he's doing these days, but I hope he's out of the business!
I left real estate sales a few years ago and just concentrate on helping active agents market themselves now.
But after reading about your guy... I have to think he must have been working in Idaho a few years back! Or no, maybe it was his clone - or about a dozen of his clones.
Kidding aside, there are way too many of those parasites around. You hope they'll be run out of the business, but as long as the agent on the other side picks up the slack, they manage to earn enough commissions to keep on going - without doing any work.
They really do have you over a barrel when you're trying to take care of the folks on your side of the transaction.
All you can do is what you do - keep on being the best agent you can be and the word will spread.
Sending wishes for a happy, healthy baby!
Marte Cliff
Hi Julie,
I enjoyed your post. I've made a copy to post in our office. I am amazed that some Realtors can keep a client until closing. Somehow, it seems to me that it doesn't make any difference whether I am representing the buyer or the seller, I am usually having to follow-up on both sides of the transaction. I've been thinking about sending an itemized bill for my services. They say "What goes around, comes around" I hope that the do-nothing agents in this business will wake up someday and go back to their day jobs and let us professionals do our jobs. Then maybe public opinion will change back to respect and admiration for all of us doers who take pride in our jobs.
What comes around goes around! It's extremely difficult to keep your cool and be the 'better' and more professional person. We all get tested on a regular basis. But these people will get their just dessert - we'll be visiting them at Wal-Mart in a year:)
wow I don"t think I have ever responded to a blog in active rain before! Julie, I feel your pain! It makes you appreciate all the really good agents out there. Try to focus on that, and you are due or a really easy transaction!
You did the right thing in telling the broker. I share your frustration at the inept and lazy in our industry.
In our MLS we can look up market stats- you might be able to see this bloke's production the past 12 months to confirm your suspicion that he won't be around next year. I do this especially when I get the "I've been in the business for 30 years" crapola from agents who can't find their rear ends with both hands. It confirms that I need to consider the source.
Good rant.
Julie,
Wow it is amazing that he is still in business. It is tough out here and the consumers are pretty savvy they rarely put up with poor service. I have had a customer with the 'other' agent call me to say hey this guy is not working for me can you help. You are right it is just a matter of time.
Finally another person who is not afraid to call it like she sees it!!! I agree that sometimes being "politically correct" doesn't do anyone any favors!!
Thanks for your honesty....from one pregnant Realtor to another :)
Isn't it great to have a place like Activerain that you can vent to your peers about your business, other agents, etc.? I'm sure you felt better after writing this post.
If those are the rules, half of the realtors in my area should just quit.
Well, most of us have been in situations like yours. Unfortunately, we are in a business that involves a lot of other people, and it is very easy to blame others and not be accountable. I have come across veteran agents who follow these rules and they are going no where, except to annoy other agents.
I now work in an area where agents are always nasty without even knowing the story behind a situation. Sometimes the nastiness comes from agents within my own office.
At the end of the day, you can only control yourself.
I've run into a few of those agents. It is truly frustrating.
About a year ago one of them broght an offer on one of my listings from a "pre-approved buyer", complete with a letter from a lender.
After presenting his offer and getting it accepted, he and his lender were in the wind. wouldn't return phone calls or emails, didn't order an appraisal or title work, nothing. After a few weeks of trying to get something resolved, we sent a release form to his broker and put the house back on the market and sold it to someone else.
The exquisite ending to this story is that about 4 months later he called me to tell me he was faxing an offer on another of my listings. I was, of course, prepared to advise my seller to pass on his offer, until I actually saw it. It was for $3,500 above list price on a $130,000 property, with conventional financing, and with $60,000 earnest money! Yes, sixty thousand dollars!
I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall to listen to his explanation to his client as to why it was necessary to structure the offer this way.
Mike Sheridan
Great post. Remember, your clients will appreciate all the work you put in for them and will refer you to their friends and family. I doubt he will get referrals. Sooner or later he will be looking for a new profession. I wonder if he's on active rain?
Your clients will remember YOU for doing such a great job!
Thanks for sharing. Love the title as well. I don't see how some agents do business without recording a greeting in their voicemail! I call lots of agents who have no recording and it just goes directly to voicemail. If I was a consumer I"d wonder if I called the right person? I'd also probably call someone who I could hear! Oh yeah, you can also add NOT PAYING YOUR BILLS to this list. Unfortunately I've seen my fair share of those agents.
Julie,
You are right-so this agent will no longer be doing business soon. This is a tough market right now for all of us who have chosen to hang in there. Most of what we do is considered "a service" and if you want referrals you need to be the best at what you do. It sounds like you are and incompetence irritates you just as much as it irritates me!
Good luck-I hope you get this to closing
Take a deep breath & DO NOT get caught up an ANY drama ! Sometimes even us "working" agents can add fuel to the fire and not even realize it.
Hi Julie,
Great post. Only thing is that I don't recall us working together recently ;)
All the Best, Andre'
You wouldn't believe how often we hear stories like this in the DC market. Everything seem to be an up hill battle with some agents. We are self governing for a reason. More and more managers and brokers should be involved in weeding out th bad apples. Even a small amount of accountabilty would go a long way in changing the buying publics opinion of us all. We should never lower our standards to those agents' level. We often have to do what's needed to secure a property for our clients. Just make a mental note of those problem agents and when you encounter them again, you'll know exactly what to expect and can be better prepared for the challegnes that await. Good Luck. Keep smiling!!
OMG YOU GO GIRL..........................
YEA THE MARKET IS TRYING TO AND WILL HOPEFULLY WEED THOSE KIND RIGHT OUT OF HERE.
THEY ACT LIKE THEY DO NOT NEED A PAY CHECK, HAHA WELL WE KNOW THEY DO.
THOSE KIND MAKE ME CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
say his name, that lousy sucker!
Julie - OH LORD, I CAN RELATE!!! Don't even get me started on arrogant, obnoxious, self-absorbed, dimissive, superior, short-sighted, inflexible and unprofessional Realtors. In my nearly eight years in the mortgage biz, I seen far too many of these bozos who not only shouldn't be in business but should have never been allowed to even get a license.
The ones that grate me the most are the ones who engage in illegal and unethical acts on behalf of their clients, buyers and/or sellers, it doesn't matter. They justify their acts by saying they are serving the best interests of their client. Well, with clients like that, you would think they would be in a completely different line of work.
Personally, I would think that with clients like that, Realtors like that wouldn't be in business long but, unfortunately, I am wrong. It never ceases to shock and amaze me that many of the Realtors that I've met that were like that are top producing agents.
SERIOUSLY!
We all seem to have delt with the "same" agent as you!!!
I actually had one tell me "If you want to get paid, you take care of the problems yourself". These were his sellers problems, not my side of the transaction. He actually said "I can list ten homes and close seven of them in the time it will take me to solve the sellers problems"! "So why should I waste my time on one transaction when I can close seven"? Love the mega-listers, don't you?
Seems like they are everywhere.....
Larry...grand rapids, mi
Julie,
I think you've certainly touched a nerve with most of us. Unfortunately, all of us probably have had similar experiences. You wonder how these "agents" stay in business. In an age where we disclose all the information we have, it's unfortunate that these "agents" don't disclose that when they list the property, it's the last time the owner will see or hear from them, they won't return phone calls even from other agents trying to sell their listing, and in general, display incompetent behaviors. The idea of being "too busy" doesn't cut it. There is no excuse for not returning phone calls or e-mails when you're allegedly selling real estate.
Julie, I think nearly everyday I deal with agents like that. It's amazing. It's amazing that they are still in real estate and that people still hire them. I'll never understand why some people settle for less.
Sometimes I think it all comes down to greed. Agents won't call you back because they want the entire commission and don't want to cooperate. When they drag their feet, it's just reciprocal feelings that are being controlled by their greed making them not do all they can to make the deal go through. It's the whiny, cry-baby mentality (I didn't get what I wanted so why should I play with you?)
We've all had other agents that won't even call you back to answer a simple question about the property, or you have to jump through hoops just to schedule a showing,make no mistake they want the whole enchilada. He who eats the whole enchilada frequently gets heartburn.
Do your best and don't fret about the "jerks" of the world, they will either choke on the enchilada or end up eating lots of Rolaids because losers never win!!!!
Julie,
Your title caught my attention. Someone asked above how you did it, I think that was how. There are certainly some lousy agents out there, but also many more good ones I think.
What happened to team work?? I really value good agents who help and not hurt the process, but they are not always easy to come by
Julie, Thanks for being a catalyst for such spirited discussion...
Here's something to remember for everyone who feels that we need to "make nice" to our fellow agents: Folks, if we don't police ourselves and our industry, then we are going to have BigBrother Government do it for us!
In order for the role of the individual agent as a trusted, professional advisor to survive in the eyes of the public, we need to BE the changes we want to see in our world. When we practice a zero-tolerance policy towards rudeness and ineptitude, we are helping to weed out those people who give all of us a bad name.
I don't know about you, but I don't welcome any more governmental mucking about; delving into issues that lawmakers neither understand or need to deal with on a daily basis. Let's clean up our own backyards of rude, dishonest or unethical agents...if not; as the Red Queen states; "Off with their heads!"
I think we've all dealt with our share of agents like this. NOT a pleasant experience at all! The worse the other agent is, the nicer and sweeter I am to them and it normally helps the situation. As much as I'd love to tell one of these idiots what I really think of them I fear it would be counter productive in the end since you never know when you might end up in another transaction with the same agent. I do my best to make the other agent "Love" me by the time the deal is done, leaving them with nothing but pleasant memories of the transaction (as much as possible anyway)!
Julie - Well I guess by now you know that this has happened to all of us at one time or another. Unfortunately, there will always be this type of agent all you can do is the best job for your clients and hope your deals with agents like that are few and far between. Good luck with your family.
I think it is great that you did it so that the public can read this. I am going through this right now with another agent. He does nothing!! It is so fustrating. Those agents give us all a bad name. It's too bad that some agents don't think this is wrong and want to get it changed. We all have a stake in this industry and need to do whatever we can to get the ones that do not do the best for their clients out of the business. Thanks for posting this!
Love it. #'s 3 and 4 are done everyday....sad but true. Great post.
The tough thing about your post is that today as we read this....someone just followed step #5
Please tell me you forwarded a copy of this to that agent!!!!
Tina in Virginia
A fun read and it rings true on occasion. I have worked with many professional agents, but every once in a while you get to work with a real doozy.
I'm dealing with an agent now that swears like a sailor. (OK, make that worse than a sailor). And, as you point out, that's if you can get him to answer his phone.
Once, after two days of trying to reach him, he answered and started on a rant about a broken window and F this and F that and then when I mentioned that he must be talking about a different property because I was calling about the transaction on 123 Street, he swore again and simply hung up on me. I didn't get through to him for another day.
I really do wonder how some agents manage to stay in business!
I think that in every industry these types of people exist. It is amazing to me how some stay in business. Keep up the great work for your clients and feel good knowing you are doing your best! It will be worth it in the long run!
I guess they are all over the place! Even close by! At least you did your best for your client inspite of him.
Last summer I got a referral from a San Antonio Broker who had similar complaints about Austin Realtors in general. She told me I was the fourth Austin Realtor that she called to give this referral client to in four days. I was the only one to call back 30 minutes after her call. I worked hard to dispel her preconceived notion that we all stink. Now she is one of my biggest/best referral sources. There are bad agents everywhere and your right they will get weeded out eventually. Hang in there!!
Betina
Julie, I could have written this post, believe me. I have always wanted to tell some of them that very same thing but I'm too chicken. Good for you. Do you feel better? 123 comments and counting. Must have struck a serious nerve with many here on AR.
Amen! I have walked this path way too many times in a transaction...but the up-side is that many times the other agent's client ultimately came to me when they had another real estate need! Use the bad agent experiences to build your database and thanks for reminding us how not to suck! :o) Wishing You GREAT Success!
I am so glad I am not the only one. I have gone the extra mile to keep something together with ZERO cooperation from the other side.
I recently ratted on a fellow Realtor who would not return numerous messages on an offer I had submitted. His principal broker assured me that I would here something that day, with all the sincerity I am certain he could muster. Of course, no phone call came in. I guess the standards at that office run from the top.
Good for you for at least trying to set him straight and best of luck on your continued success.
Julie,
I too have had this experience with another agent. I think if they are too busy or just plain lack what it takes to give good customer service and cooperate with fellow agents, they really shouldn't be in this business.
My situation was with an agent that was famous for all 5 things, and to top it off, did not know his and his seller's obligations in a contract. When I decided to go to his broker, I came to find out he WAS the broker! Scary, huh?
Good for you that you followed through and did what was best for your client, instead of throwing up your hands.
"Life is a grindstone, whether it grinds you down or polishes you up, depends on what you're made of". - Jacob M. Braude That goes for the unsavory realtors we cross paths with as well!
Good for you, standing up for yourself and good agents alike. Thank you for being one of the good ones. I am sure your clients know what you do for them. =)
Good for you, standing up for yourself and good agents alike. Thank you for being one of the good ones. I am sure your clients know what you do for them. =)
You should inform the Broker, they are responsible for that agent and making sure that he or she is trained appropriately.
You go girl. I am with you about taking care of your clients. I still think the other agnet should hold up their end of the deal. Agents like him give us all a bad rap. I would have done the same thing as far as informing his broker what kind of service ( if you call it service at all with him) he provided. Have a GREAT 2009!
I know you feel better! I know that I would, just getting this experience off my chest. :) We run into "the Bad" agent every now and again and my husband and I just pray that eventually they leave the business, I know they will.
All the Best!
Cheron Lange
Julie,
I think it's very clever the manner in which you expressed what makes a lousy agent. Unfortunately these type of agents give us all a bad rap. Your sentiments are those of many who have done business with agents who do not grasp the meaning of the word serve.
Thanks,
Lyvia May
Great post and 133 comments. We have all worked or know of someone like the one described here. Glad you reported him to his broker, as well as give him an ear full of your frustration in his lack of an agent. YOU GO and keep posting.
Great post. I think we have all been there. I wish you peace and love in all your transactions.....
Julie, Way to go! I wish I would of posted this 3 years ago. We can only hope these agents fall of the market. I have had them tell me I forgot to do paper work and when we show up to closing they have 2 copies I have faxed with to different dates. Some are always to busy to do their paper work. Itseems the ones who own their own business, go figure... though one was working for her family member.
In my opinion, your blog was absolutely necessary for other agents to read for the following reasons:
Things that make you go hmmmmm! Thank you to the great Realtors that lead the way!
Your experience is not uncommon at all, and due to the fact that 136 others responded before me, I'll just say, "You won this time" Look at the attention and minds you focused on the issue. I hope we all learn to just tell the other side to do the job and Hold them Responsible!
You can not let a bad Agent ruin your clients needs for a home. Good for you that you went the extra mile. You are sure to get good 'Karma' points and extra business going forward.
Best Wishes,
Chris Bowman
Julie,
I understand your frustration. I dealt with a slightly lazy agent a couple of times that pretty much had none of the documentation or information about the listings that any novice agent would have had together, and could never get anything I asked for (ex: the sellers don't have/know that were the big answers I received). You just move forward and do what you have to do for your clients and try to ignore the fact that the other agent is just sitting on his duff doing nothing.
What goes around comes around I am told. Life is just too short to dwell on the lazy "professionals" we run in to.
Take care.
Thank you everyone who participated in this discussion! I think we all learned that we are not alone when it comes to dealing with lazy agents. I'm sorry for not being more active on the commentary... after 138 comments it got harder and harder to keep up. (You can see I tried at the beginning, lol!)
Just an update to this post... I still haven't gotten paid either. It's been 2... almost 3 weeks. I'm not even kidding! Looks like this story isn't over yet!
"I'm pretty sure he won't be in business next year,"
Sounds like he won't be in business next month....
Don't feel guilty! Agents like that do give the rest of us a bad reputation. The sooner we can get him out of the business, the better things will be for his clients and every remaining agent in your area.
Wait I though that was the standard MO for agents? Only joking, good for you. What's worse is when you call their broker and they're just as bad.
Julie, I think I know that guy! ;-P Is it any wonder so many people think Realtors are lower than pond scum? I always plan to carry the weight on both sides of the transaction, and then when I have a great Realtor on the other side it is a treat! Thanks for stopping by my blog...
Hello Julie - look what you started...I came back to see check out your comments...
Brian - I've had the broker being worse a lot too! Too many of us have this experience and when you know 'that' other agent and he/she has the listings you want to show...you better begin to knock on doors - their brokers don't care and I've stopped calling them - they don't wan to be bothered.
Our business is in a sad state of affairs. We need to really live by the 'golden rule.' Today more than ever - begin to be good to your fellow Realtor - we help each other make a living. isn't that the big picture?
In the two decades I've been in this profession this kind of agent has shown up many times. There is also the control-freak agent that insists on doing everything. It has been my philosophy the the only win is a close. Despite the other agents' lack of professionalism or ability, it is my responsibility to get the transaction closed. Whether I have to do everything or go over the coop's head or put my ego aside and play second-fiddle to the despot, it is incumbant on me as representative of my client to so for their benefit.
Our board is working hard to eliminate the unethical and incompetant agents. It will take time. Julie, you did what you had to to do. I salute you for your efforts in raising the level of professionalism in our industry. Kudo.
In the two decades I've been in this profession this kind of agent has shown up many times. There is also the control-freak agent that insists on doing everything. It has been my philosophy the the only win is a close. Despite the other agents' lack of professionalism or ability, it is my responsibility to get the transaction closed. Whether I have to do everything or go over the coop's head or put my ego aside and play second-fiddle to the despot, it is incumbant on me as representative of my client to so for their benefit.
Our board is working hard to eliminate the unethical and incompetant agents. It will take time. Julie, you did what you had to to do. I salute you for your efforts in raising the level of professionalism in our industry. Kudo.
Really nice blog. I came across it by using suck and Realtors in my search.
Lol, Mike... that could be both good and bad. Hopefully if that's what the customer is looking for, they'll see that not all agents "suck" and that sometimes even the good agents have to deal with the sucky ones!