My Mom Was Right!

No, that isn't my Mom!
But, I'm sure you probably grew up (like I did) with tons of wisdom and familiar phrases from your Mom. Heck, you are probably passing some of these phrases on to your own children too. You know, we all grew up with our mothers and grandmothers repeating certain little ditties that have become as familiar in our individual families as Shakespeare quotes. Every now and then an old familiar phrase reminds me of something I experienced in my real estate career.

A good example I heard the other day was "If your neighbor jumped off a bridge, would you do it too?" Well probably not, but I related that old phrase to be akin to "if every other agent took over priced listings, would I take over priced listings too?" The reality is that taking over priced listings is NOT good for anyone. Its bad for the agent, because it costs them valuable marketing dollars with no chance to recoup the funds. Its bad for the homeowner who will not attract the most eligible home buyer and it's bad for the buyers who get a contract on a house that will not appraise. In the end the homeowner realizes too late that the house is priced too high.

I am forever educating my clients. I take this part of my job very seriously. After all, clients will never refer me to friends, if I make a mistake pricing their house for sale. When I accept a listing, I give 120% as I market the property to the most qualified home buyers! Among other things, I always share up-to-date competitive information and a Competitive Market Analysis including market conditions that should be considered as we determine the appropriate listing price. Likewise, I work hard to educate my Buyer Clients too. We are always looking at market and neighborhood statistics to determine appropriate offer prices.

Make New Friends, But Keep the Old Ones.
Remember that one? I think I first heard that one in Sunday School when I was about 5 years old. Funny how that gem of a phrase applies to my real estate career too. I am a relationship person -- always have been. Sometimes I find myself becoming so focused on my current clients and transactions that I compromise attention to my past clients. I don't mean to really, but sometimes it just happens. I am very mindful of checking in with previous clients on a regular basis. I encourage past clients to call me anytime with their questions and concerns. I actively pursue and continue to cultivate a strong relationship with my clients after the closing. I try very hard to stay in continuous contact with past clients. In fact, they all hear from me monthly as well as several times per year including and especially their anniversary of closing.

And, For Pity Sakes Remember Who You Are!
This was one of my Mom's most famous phrases. We heard this one whenever we were going away from home for a long weekend or out with friends on a Friday night. This phrase too is a great parallel to my real estate career. It is always my goal and sincere hope that clients recognize that Integrity comes first with me. I believe strongly in treating all clients the way I would want to be treated. I give more than my clients expect. I recognize that clients don't purchase and sell property every day. For many, this is a totally new and perhaps scary experience. This is an occasional transaction at best for most people. To make it even more daunting, the real estate laws are forever changing and developing. I strive to give my clients A+ service, excellent attention to the details yielding the desired results. I hope every client recognizes that I care deeply about their unique situation as well as their individual transaction. I am always available for consultation. I am easily reachable at 770-399-8108. My goal is always to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. I look forward to serving your real estate needs when the time is right for you.

Sara Hibbard is a licensed Realtor in the state of Georgia working in the north Atlanta metro area. Sara can be reached anytime at 770-399-8108 or sara@sarahibbard.com. I'm Glad Georgia Real Estate Is On Your Mind!