When showing homes for sale, buyers typically have something to say regarding the houses they are looking at. Listing agents look to this information to pass along to sellers, so we may get a different perspective on the home. Maybe the buyer thinks the house is too big, too small, too cluttered, too dark, too light...maybe the buyers don't like the floor plan, the paint color, or the furnishings.
Sometimes a buyer looking at a home can provide information on an item that may not have been addressed with the seller. Some items can be changed, such as too much clutter, or an offensive paint color. Other items can't, such as the location of the home or the layout of a floorplan.
I have received feedback from buyer's agents that proved quite useful in helping me convince a seller to proceed ahead with that slight adjustment to their property, to make it appear more attractive.
I love feedback and so do my sellers.
I think that agents that call for feedback are doing their job. They are working for their sellers, and trying to provide as much info as possible, to try to help them make their home appear as favorable to buyers as they can
Lately for me, business has been brisk. Currently I am working with several different buyers. Two of which are from out of town and are on tight schedules. They are both leaving in the next day or so. We have been working 7 days a week, 3 to 4 evenings a week out after 7:00 - 8:00 PM. We do what we can to accomodate our clients.
I would say that I have looked at over 50 houses for sale in South Brevard County in the past 3 weeks. We have seen at least 10 of them more than once. Providing feedback has never been a problem for me, except in a situation like this, when I show a large number of homes in a short period of time, with buyers in a time crunch.
In the past weeks I have found myself in a quandry.
I have received calls or emails from at least 45 real estate companies, looking for feedback on my showings. Several agents have called me 2 to 3 times for the feedback. I probably have received about 20 feedback requests in my email inbox. Some are duplicates.
As I said, I believe that agents that call for feedback are working for their sellers, in trying to give them all the info possible to try and expedite the sale of their home!
One agent called me 5 times. The calls all came in on the same afternoon that I was out with one of the buyers, showing homes. The agent marked every message URGENT. By the 5th call she was not very nice!
When I'm in the office, I try to answer the phone and give feedback each chance I get. I am happy to help. I have probably spoken to at least 15 of these agents thus far. I have spoken to all of the agents on the second showings, and am working on the others.
Last week I spoke with an agent and told her that the buyer didn't care for the floor plan of her listing, as this was what I was told. Three days later the buyer wanted to take a second look at her listing. When I set up the second showing, she said, "I thought you told me that he didn't like the floor plan." Today, with buyers taking longer to choose a house to make an offer on, sometimes I hesitate to say much, as things change and the buyers can often change their mind.
However, we know that other work stacks up, while out with buyers. We have other customers that we are working with, we must continue prospecting and of course we must stay current on our blogs, especially the one here on ACTIVE RAIN!
One agent called me the other day, and asked me what I thought of her listing. We had looked at it over 2 weeks ago. I honestly couldn't even remember the house. I told her that I had seen 40 houses since that one, and that I knew it wasn't on the buyer's short list. Not much help, I know.
So, what is an buyer's agent to do? I completely understand that in this business it is important to build relationships and to continue to nurture them.
As a REALTOR, how do you handle calls for showing feedback? Do you have any ideas on how to get through the feedback requests more efficiently and effectively?
For me, when I'm absolutely buried, I find that it's hard to find enough hours in the day to get everything done.
that for you
No problem Sandy, we change from Daylight Savings Time soon and you will have one more hour to get caught up. :-D Realistically, how about a quick checklist that you fax to the listing agent? Just a suggestion. And as to the guy that called you five times, tell him to #$$#)$&%$#* and see if that helps.
Would you consider a 2nd showing "feedback"?
I find that leaving a card behind with comments can help the listing agent and helps me keep moving along.
I try my very best because I think we need to work together. If the call is 2 weeks later I don't feel very obligated.
I respond to all requests for showing feedback from the listing agents, but don't offer up feedback when not solicited.
Hi Fred, You are one funny guy...but you're right,,,I'll have another hour to get those feedback requests done. Thanks for the checklist suggestion. I appreciate it! I'm not sure if it can say @&*$)*$%@* over the phone -LOL!
Sandy, I respond to all email requests for feedback. If someone calls and gets me fine, but I generally don't call back trying to track down an agent who is looking for something from me, sorry...that's just me. I will provide feedback on what me and my clients thought about the property, except for the price. I strongly believe that's the seller and listing agents job.
I do try to follow up with requested feedback. I do not like the feedback requests that require me to go to a website and provide detailed info.
Even so when I get these I will simply hit reply with a short comment something similar to " House to close to highway noise for my client " etc. What is agrivating is that these auto responders will continue to send you a request untill the cylce expires.
Hi Michael, I would consider a second showing feedback in and of itself. But, I have spoken to all of the agents on the second showings. I like the idea of writing comments on the back of my card. Good idea. Thanks, I may try that!
Hi Barry, We must all work together, I agree. On the late callers, I can't always remember the house. It makes it hard with that many homes. Thanks!
Hi Vickie, Thanks for the input. I try to respond the best I can, depending on the way the rest of my work load looks at that time.
Hi Richard, I appreciate you taking the time to give your opinion. Take care and best wishes! I don't usually discuss price either.
Hi Herb, I really don't care for the ones that are automatically generated to my email box immediately when the showing is set up. Sometimes the showing is 2 days away. I prefer to see them after the date of the showing. Thanks for the input and have a prosperous week!
I respond to all requests for feedback, whether phone, or e-mail.... and I hope that agents will respond to my requests. (my hope hasn't been met yet)... Occassionally, I forget, but overall, I try to respond.
I hate the automatic feedback responses that more and more agents are using. They really don't tell the seller much except the buyers didn't care for their home. I always call and ask for verbal feedback, but I realize many agents don't want to or are too busy to respond. Recently, I had an agent show one of my listings and before I could contact her for feedback, she called me. I was shocked. She told me when she gets back to her office, she calls the listor on every property they viewed and leaves feedback. Because she usually gets voice mail, it doesn't take her long to go down the list. By doing it this way, she gives better feedback plus it only takes her about 10-15 minutes, and she doesn't have her day interrupted with repeat messages asking for feedback. If you're getting busy, and are conscientious about responding, you may want to try her approach.
Hi Alan, Well, you're doing a great job! Congratulations! Have a super week!
Hi Jerry, Hmmm, I had never heard about that before, Calling them before they call you! I like that alot. What a great plan! I may just have to try that! That sounds like something that could really work for me! Thanks for the great idea! That agent should be commended!
Well, I admit that when someone shows one of my listings I get a tad irritated when that agent doesn't provide feedback. I'm not looking for an in depth analysis, just the short story. I am to the point now that if I show a listing belonging to another office, I'll send that listing agent a quick email, a few sentences, recapping the showing. If I were to receive a detailed form that I had to fill out, I'd simply reply with a few short sentences and be done with it. ~ Evelyn
Hi Evelyn, Another great idea...sending a short email recapping the showing. Thanks for the idea. Have a great week!
Sandy, I give feedback when requested or it there is something very positive or nagative about a home, like do you know there is 2 feet of water in the basement or let me know if something comes in on this one as it is on the buyers short list. I make notes on my copy of the listing synopsis as we go. On my listings, I send an email request with a short survey, it only takes a minute to respond to.
Hi Rich, I think that taking notes is a good idea in looking at homes. Keeps the house fresh in your mind, so you can easily refer back to give feedback info. Thanks for sharing!
I give feedback if the call is timely and from the listing agent, not an assistant who has never seen the property.
Hi Sandy - Feedback is so important in this business and we owe it to the sellers (whether we are the listing agent, or somebody else is ... Sellers are Sellers). I grab the listing agent's card before I leave and give them a call once I'm back on the road. Many times the buyer is in the car when I make the call and they have never minded, in fact, I think they appreciate the professionalism. Many times it gets them talking even more about their likes and dislikes and that information is very useful!
I like giving feedback. But don't keep calling as that bugs me.
Hi Lenn, Good info. Interesting comment - that you give feedback to the listing agent only. About half of the calls I received are from assistants to the listing agent. Thanks for your input!
I am mostly a listing agent. Sellers WANT feedback! They get so frustrated when the buyer's agent's don't show any response to emails/phone messages. Some buyer agents feel that it is not their job/problem. If they write an offer, that's feedback. If not, that's feedback too. But I need to hear why the buyer didn't choose the house, so I can tell the seller. I consider it common courtesy.
I get calls like this all the time and usually I won't answer if I feel bad about the feedback I HAVE TO GIVE ... I'm not going to candy-coat things and I usually have to say #1 - its overpriced or #2 it needs some sprucing up to be at that price.
Hi Darla, I think out of the 50 houses I showed there were only REALTOR cards or flyers in eight of the houses! I had never ever thought about giving feedback while the buyer was still in the car with me. I have to think about that one. I imagine it would get them talking about their likes and dislikes on the home. Thanks for the feedback -food for thought!
Hi Angelia, I don't mind giving feedback either. I talked with several agents today and it got us really talking about the houses we saw. I really don't like multiple calls, especially marked urgent!
Hi Erica, I do agree that sellers absolutely thrive on feedback. It gives us a different perspective on why a sellers house may not be moving off the market. Take care!
Sandy, in my area 99% of the homes have brochures along with the listing agent's cards. If it's something you want to try, maybe you could just jot down the listing agent phone numbers before you head out. It really has worked well for me, and that way I'm not bothered with the calls and emails later. Plus the buyers are like open books once they know how important feedback truly is.
Woodlands Texas, I don't have a problem with giving negative feedback, if it is presented in a professional manner, that the listing agent can take back to the seller and help them better position themselves to sell their home.
I like to take notes throuout my showings. Then when I get a few minutes I'll email the listing agent. That usually prevents a bunch of calls.
Hi Darla, I always put my cards and listing flyers in all of my properties for sale. When I'm showing houses, I am sure to have copies of the listings for myself and for the buyers. I could jot the info down on those sheets, and refer back to them when I get back in the car. I like the idea of not having to field all of the calls later on - less things to do later on. Thanks for the info!
Hi Robert, I think I may start doing that - taking more notes - and either emailing or calling the list agents before they call me. As I mentioned to Darla, I'd like to alleviate all of the calls.
I eagerly give feedback when an agent ask for it. That includes when I get an email asking for feedback instead of a phone call. If an agent leaves a message, I always call them back with feedback. Most of the time they are shocked I returned their call. I believe it is important to give feedback because I want it on my listings. Feedback is a useful tool for both me and my seller.
Also, giving feedback shows respect for the listing agent and the industry as a whole. If agents don't treat each other with respect, why should the public.
Hi Brien, I have had agents surprised when I return their calls for feedback. I agree that feedback is a useful tool for us and our sellers. Interesting point - feedback shows respect for the listing agent and the industry as a whole - I don't know that I ever looked at it that way! Thanks for your point of view!
Hey Sandy ... Congratulations on your feature! It is so very difficult when showing a lot of homes. More than once, I could not remember which house was which. I actually began to jot down a sentence about each house on the back of my listing sheet, while I still had my buyers with me. It helped me quite a bit ... my buyers too!
However, I think there could be a lot more understanding shown ... agent to agent ... in this business. Also, some sellers are so obsessed with immediate feedback that we have to learn not to take it out on other agents because we need an answer. Nice job!
Sandy -
I use Centralized Showing Service for email feedback - four emails, 18 hours apart, followed by three live calls from one of our admins. No response - I know they did not like the house. But at least I tried - I am working for the seller, you know, and do owe it to them.
You think?
DEAN & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
Hey Marie, Thanks for the congrats! I will start jotting down notes. I like to write things on the ones that they really liked, to keep them fresh in my mind. On the others, I usually place them in a separate folder away from the keepers. Feedback typically isn't a big deal for me, just when I get buried with multiple buyers, lots of homes in a short time frame. Thanks again. Talk to you soon!
Hi Dean, I do believe that we owe it to sellers to get them feedback on their listings. It helps all of us, to all work together to get some of these properties off of the market. Thanks!
Hi Sandy, Just finished calling listing agents with feedback. I feel your pain. I ask buyers to write specific comments aboout each house we see. After viewing houses we sit down anf they rank them #1 thru #x. This helps me when calling listing agents and provides specific comments as well as a numeric score ( of sorts ! ). Don't know if I'm helping here or not.
Hi
I usually take notes on the mls sheet and then when I get back home in the evening I will make calls or send e-mails to give feedback before a listing agent calls me. If I call or e-mail in the evening it's quick since I get voicemail or I'm e-mailing from my computer. Then (it's technical I know) I write 'gave fb' on my mls sheet and if it's a definite 'no' from my clients I file it in the very back of their file, just to keep track of what we looked at and what they liked/disliked about certain listings.
There are some agents in my area that will call (or have their assistants call) within an hour of the showing. That frustrates me to no end. Let me catch my breath before pestering me. :)
Hi Bill, I always give buyers a pen to take notes with. I tell them that by the end of the day they will all have run together. They usually do rank the ones that they like, in the order they liked them. But, the ones they don't usually get tossed aside. May have to reconsider this. Thanks for the info and take care. I love coming to visit Ft. Myers Beach, It is so beautiful!
I find it interesting that as the market turned from a Sellers Market to a Buyers Market that my phone rings off the hook after a few days out with a buyer. Surprised? No. I will give feedback if asked and if there is something wrong as mentioned in an earlier response (water in the basement) if the house "smells" I'll tell them, if it's dirty, I'll tell them. If the house was absolutely beautiful I will tell them!!! We have an awesome tool in our MLS where we can just go to the listing, click on the agents name and get their email and email them from the MLS. That has worked great for me because I have developed a habit of sitting with my laptop watching my shows (late at night) and get that feedback to them. Sometimes I will text the agent feedback - let me tell you that is the handiest tool for communicating with agents. Only problem with that is alot of agents still aren't texting. I find that having my Blackberry has enabled me to communicate constantly without interruptions in my day to day activities. Let's all get out there and sell sell sell
Deanna Dibble
Remax Professionals
Lawrence, KS
Hi Sandy,
Most agents have an automated email sent to me and I put in a templated reply that very vague, but pleasant. Like you, some times buyers change their minds, so I don't want to insult the sellers. Ultimately, we all know what reason or another why our listings aren't selling. I know it's easier on us when a seller keeps reading the same type of feedback from showing agents.
I too don't like listing agents who call me for feedback and I'm still out showing homes. Give me at least half a day.
Sandy, I think you've gotten some good tips here which I will probably use myself. I think the notes on the back of the listing sheet is a good one. I generally print off one with pics for my buyers as this helps them keep it all straight in their heads, too.
Congrats on the feature!
I make it a point to attempt to call every listing agent and provide feedback before they call me. My first words are always that I ask them to please thank the homeowner for having allowed me the privilege of showing their property, and let them know I truly appreciated the opportunity. This builds a tremendous amount of goodwill with other agents and is a powerful networking tool. Then I give a general feedback about whether I feel my clients will have any further interest in the property or not, and the reasons why or why not. I seldom ever mention price unless my clients were very vocal about it being overpriced.
Hi Krystal, I LOVE the idea of calling or emailing the night you get in from showing the houses. Thus it alleviates all the calls coming in, and you get to leave a short message. I have had many showings within hours or the showing...and sometimes the buyer hasn't even had time to figure out whether it's on their short list or not. Thanks for the great idea!
Hey Deanna, I have to agree,..that now list agents call, call, call when they weren't doing so just a few years ago-you are correct. I think I will start emailing or calling the night I come in from showing. Thanks for the input!
Hi Heather, I am pleased with the feedback and the great ideas I have gotten here. This is one of my favorite things about being here on Active Rain. We all get to brainstorm together, to help make our jobs easier. Thanks for the congrats!
Hi Jim, I have been hearing the same thing over and over, call them, before they call you...I'm going to do this. I love the idea of telling the listing agent how much of a privilege it was to see the property. Great job and keep it up!
Sandy,
In a buyers market it is definitely difficult to remember all the houses and it's especially true that buyers change their mind in this environment. An agent mentioned to me that, due to the elevated inventory, she is simply stating that the home "Didn't make the top 3" so that agents won't bug her. I kind of like that philosophy.
Yes Sandy I always leave feedback on my showings as I thing that the listing agent needs to hear my opinion and I feel it is a professional courtesy to do this after a showing. I want other agents to provide feedback to me so I do what they would want and give them their feedback. Thanks.
Hi Tracy, One set of my buyers has changed their mind a couple of times, and I hesitate to open my mouth with too much information and insert my foot. Thanks for the different point of view! Much appreciated!
Hi Kathy, I do agree that the buyers and the buyers agents opinions can be very useful to a listing agent in helping sell a home. Thanks!
Wow! What a great topic! I'm curious to see how many comments this post gets...probably a TON!
Feedback is great...I think we can all agree on that.
However, a couple of "Wrinkles"....Sometimes as listing agents....we don't need too much...if we're solid in price and condition...we don't have to chase feedback if we're in a good position.
Also, pursuing feedback rarely results in a sale, right? The buyer either loves the property or doesn't and calling the other agent does not change that often.
So really, feedback is most needed when you don't know much about your competition (preview homes to avoid this).
Feedback is a courtesy that should be extended to all but agents need to realize their counterparts get busy and it may be hard to return feedback due to a busy schedule...as you stated in your post.
GREAT TOPIC....
P.S. I like the electronic feedback that allows my sellers to see comments.
Don't want to mention any service by name (but it's free)....but there are good ones out there.
Can I mention a service provider in AR without a problem with guidelines?
Kevin
I always try to give feedback on any showings, but I do have a rule, if I called for feedback and the Agent ignores my request, then they are on my do not call list, and I can say that it is mostly out of town Agents that do not call back or the local big guns who are too busy. With e-mail it is so easy to send a quick note and give feedback, I know one Agent who gives his notes to his assistant on each home he shows, so when you call for feedback you get his feedback.
This is something that I am always consulting on. I think that the only way to handle this is electronically. Look around and find a e helper with this.
My associates: st paul windows | minneapolis japanese landscaping | DLP Lamps | MN Web Design
A lot of agents tell me they can't remember much about the home if there clients are not intersted
In Nashville we have a couple of showing centers and they automatically generate emails to us for feedback. For those who do not use those services, I try to respond to them by email if they call. It's just too much time to do anything else.
Our lockbox system has feedback requests that are automatically emailed to the showing agent after they update their key after showing. This sytem works great for agents within our MLS. Two little problems are when we loan an actual house key to someone outside our MLS we sometimes don't get any feedback and also I get emails reminding me to give feedback to myself... duh. It's the supra ekey system that we use and we love the system.
Jot down notes on the MLS sheet while you are showing the house or when you get into the car. At the end of the day, respond to those automatic emails or send an email to the listing agent. If you don't have time to respond, then have an office staff member respond on your behalf. Remember, your sellers are calling you also for feedback. I have found it helpful to educate the seller at the time of the listing presentation. I tell my sellers that we might not get feedback every time and explain why we might not get feedback; agent too busy, agent doesn't want to give feedback to mess up a possible offer, etc. I agree with someone elses response, after 2-3 email requests from Centralize Showings, and 2 phone calls from me, I do not call after that point.
For the last two weeks, I've been showing houses from sun up to sundown and it is REALLY tough on a Monday morning when your phone is ringing off the hook with feedback requests. Most of the realtors in my office prefer email requests that you can answer at your convenience. As a listing agent, it also helps to have a Feedback service or survey with photos of the home to help jog your memory.
As for the agent who hunted you down, it sounds like you were probably the first agent to view his home in a looooong time! :-)
I always try to leave feedback, especially when I receive the emails from the agents. I only think it's fair and when I have to cancel a showing for some reason, I certainly let the scheduling service know to cancel the showing.
With so much inventory to choose from, sellers and agents are excited when their listing are chosen, so I think it's only professional to provide feedback.
Sandy,
I provide feedback even it is just a short...the buyer didn't care for the house. I keep it short and sweet unless there was a safety issue, then I might push it. I email my feedback usually, then there is a paper trail so to speak. I have had those marathon showings and I have told listing agents unless you can tell me something that will stand out about your listing, I simply cannot remember them all....
Hope things are better for you,
Ann
Sandy,
When looking for feedback I ask "what would it take to make this listing of mine the home your buyer wants to buy?" I get more information that way then just the generic types of questions I used to ask. I also think it helps determine if there really is a way to move the home off of the maybe list.
Diane
I'm usually on the other end of the phone trying to get the feedback information from the agent that showed my listing. Personally a quick phone call or short email regarding the property is enought for me on feedback. Just as you said feedback is so important. Once we repainted the exterior of a house because a great majority of our agent feedback suggested it.
I believe that a Buyers agent SHOULD provide feedback. This should not be a do you have time. This is a very important step in showing homes.
Hi Sandy,
When I was a brand new agent, I worked with an older gal who had been in real estate for years. She never called anybody for feedback ~ said that if they liked the house, she'd see an offer come through the door or over the fax. Sure sounds easier than the way we do it now...
Lynn
Providing is feedback is very important! Very good blog post! Great Job!
Thanks,
Tom Davis
World Class Delaware Realtor
Sandy - I'm loving reading every one the comments so far on this subject. BTW Congrats on the featured post and gold star! What I do with the buyers I take out is put together a clipboard with a printout of all the properties we're scheduled to see that day from a program I use call ToolkitCMA. Under each property is room for the buyer to make notes as they go through the house and can add to as we drive to the next property. When we get back to my office I make copies of all of their notes and have the information I need to respond to the feedback requests from the listing agents. Has worked like a charm for me thus far. :-)
Sandy - sometimes Brian shows so many houses to several different buyers that he doesn't necessarily remember what the house was - especially if it didn't make the cut. I drives us nuts when seller agents/assistant call 30 minutes after showing the home and get p*&^y with us because we didn't answer or call back. It's been only 30 minutes!!! We are still showing! We don't necessarily chase down the agents to leave feedback but will give it is the catch us (LOL - in a nice way that is) + we do leave feedback via e-mail. As listing agents we use showing service and send out automated feedback request. We do get a lot of feedback that way. We also tell sellers that sometimes no matter who hard we try we may not get any feedback. ~Rita
We send the requests electronically on the same day as the showings. I agree that this information is extremely important to the listing agent. First, it allows us to correct incorrect information or other misunderstandings. Second, it allows us to address objections. I view these requests as reciprocal and, therefore, I respond to them promptly. I don't like the telephone calls and personally prefer to receive these requests via e-mail.
I agree with the importance of providing feedback and understand when you have the kind of schedule you've described, it's tough to respond to every request. I take a short printout of the homes I'm showing my clients and write their comments on that sheet. It serves three purposes: I catch the incidental comments they make about likes or dislikes, improving my understanding of what they want; it shows them that I'm listening to them; and then, when I have the time, I can provide useful feedback to the sellers agent.
Frankly, I'm rather disappointed at my fellow realtors because few even follow up on my showings.
I'll confess too, I'm one of those agents that won't go away until I've gotten an answer when someone has visited my listing ;> I sure hope I didn't cross the line from 'determined' to 'pesky'...
We do not have a problem with sharing feed back, but, when we get one of those e-mail report cards that will not allow you to just make comments and you have to grade the home? I'd rather a phone call, those report cards are deleted...
Kevin, I absolutely love your comment - I think that you have completely hit the nail on the head. 'Feedback is a great courtesy - we all agree on that - however if we are solid on our price and condition, rarely does feedback result in a sale. The buyer usually loves the property or doesn't.' I agree.- you summed it up in a nutshell. THANKS.
I believe in feedback but have learned over the years that it really doesn't always mean much. People don't always take the time to think before they expound feedback.
Todd, I agree that electronic requests for feedback are easiest to respond to.
Mark, I have to admit, after I have seen 50 houses, I find difficulty in remembering some of the houses that the buyer has completely ruled out.
Emily, The automatically generated email services are fine. Makes it easy to write a couple of sentences and send right back.
Tammy, Alot of agents in our area have shifted to combo lockboxes, because there have been several changes to the lockboxes over the years. A company buys them and then, we shift to a new company and they have to buy new ones all over again with a new key. It gets quite costly.
I try to give feedback -- I especially like the forms that are automatically generated in my email. I make notes on each listing sheet re: feedback! I NEVER give feedback on price though -- with the exception of over-priced listings! If a home is a real disaster area -- the agent already knows that so I may skip feedback on those homes.
Hi Greg, At this point neither of my buyers has made a final decision on the homes they have seen. So, as you mentioned, I know which homes are on the short list, but I am cautious as to what I say to the list agent before the buyer makes a final decision on what they are going to offer on. They have changed their minds a couple of times and gone back to houses they have ruled out. Makes it a bit sticky.
Kerry, I know what you mean about showing houses from sunup to sundown - feedback requests are difficult to get to immediately. I love your idea of having a couple of pictures of the house on the email request - I think that would make it soooo much easier. GREAT IDEA!
MeLisa, I think that you are right that many agents and sellers are happy to have their listings shown, so they are eager to get some input back to the owners.
Hi Ann, How are you today? I think you summed it up, with marathon showings it makes it tough to remember them all. Thanks for the input. I'll talk to you soon!
Hi Diane, I like your question, 'What would it take for this listing of mine to be the home your buyer would want to buy?' Interesting - I suppose that really gets down to the real nitty gritty. And you can find out if there are things in the house that can be overcome. Thanks for the viewpoint!
Hi Justin, How are you? Sometimes feedback can nudge a seller along to do something they are reluctant to do otherwise! Take care.
Hi Roland, 'Feedback is a very important part of showing homes' - thanks for your feedback!
Hi Lynn, Your older gal's philosophy does sound easier than what we do now. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Tom, Thanks for the compliment on the post. I am so glad to hear different points of view - I love the comments that come in! Thanks for yours!
Hi Donna, Toolkit CMA, huh? I provide printouts of all the houses we will be looking at to my buyers and give them a pen and advise them to take notes, because by the end of the day the houses may all run together. But, never thought to take copies of their sheets of notes. That's an interesting idea? I like that. I may have to try that -thanks for sharing!
Hi Rita, Multiple buyers and oodles of houses makes feedback difficult sometimes. But, it is very diffcult when agents call the same day we're out looking. And some get very upset. It makes it tough to show homes.
Hi Ryan, I do agree that the electronic requests are easier to respond to. Thanks!
Hi Lynn, I like your 3 points, especially the one about getting a better understanding of what your buyer is looking for.
Diane, Of all the comments that have come in, yours is the ONLY one that indicates that some agents don't always think first before they comment. You have made a GREAT POINT! ANd I agree completely! I have had agents tell me things their buyers didn't like about my listing that didn't even apply to the house I had for sale! I think sometimes agents feel like they must come up with some kind of feedback, one way or another, so some just spout off anything! EXCELLENT POINT -thank you!
Hi Joan, Interesting - you and several others have commented that they don't comment much on price. I don't spend much time on price, I suppose because I don't usually show overpriced listings, anyway.
Feed back and service seems to be in vogue now that we have a slower market. I do always give my reports to other listing agents when I have showed their listings. The good, the bad and the ugly. If too ugly I give a generic answer, as I don't want trouble or liablity, read some posts on that one.
Hi Mary, You made another excellent point - have to be careful what you say to avoid liability. I agree that we must be cautious with our words. Thanks for the feedback!
Some great responses and ideas here. Taking from one, I think I like the idea of leaving feedback sheets in the home for agent or buyer to fill out while there, next to day a bowl of candy or pasty welcoming them to take one.
Oh, and I also always give feedback and prefer to do it by e-mail unless buyers had specific questions.
Hi Karen, There are some excellent ideas here on feedback. Feedback sheets in the home are great, however for me I would probably hesitate to fill one out while still in the house. I would take it with me. Buyers perspectives often change as they see more homes for sale, and sometimes their views on a particular home are different by the end of the day after looking at 10-12 homes. I like the idea of the candy or pastry out on the counter. Have a great day!
Like Tammy we have the Supra electronic lockboxes. We can input the feedback through our lockbox keys. Sounds wonderful but whenever I use it, I still get calls from agents b/c they don't check their lockbox key showings history. I repsond when requested b/c as a listing agent, I have used feedback to get price changes, get the seller to make requested changes and upgrades, etc. Its a great tool.
Hi Kathy, As I mentioned, alot of agents here are now using combo lockboxes. That's great that you have gotten price reductions, updgrades and special changes made to the property through feedback. Often it takes the seller to hear it from others, besides us, to nudge them along to make a change. Thanks for your feedback!
Tired of waiting for that feed back from the buyer broker that seems to never come.
Best way that I have learned to get feedback, I had learned here on a AR Blog, ask the buyer just prior to leaving the viewed property for their PRO & CON.
Hi Richard, I have heard that mentioned here. I'm glad that works for you! I hesitate to provide feedback while still out at the home because buyers in my experience change change their mind. I have had them completely rule out a house while in it and then a day later, they have wanted to look at it again. So, I don't want to open mouth and insert my foot. Sometimes buyers get a different perspective of homes as they continue to become more educated to an area, and they look at more homes. Thanks for your point of view!
Sandy, Congratulations on having so many active buyers all at once. You go girl!
Now, on to your problem of feedback. I honestly think it's critical to give feedback within 24 hours of showings. I personally don't go to bed until I've emailed feedback for anything I've shown that day. It really takes only a few minutes and it's part of my job. I almost always get the same courtesy from the competing brokers in my area. I was surprised to hear you talking about feedback calls. Get it set up on the computer. I go to my MLS site, click on the listing agent and send her a feedback with as much information as possible, remembering that it is in writing and will almost surely be shared with her seller, so be kind and gentle but honest. Be glad you're busy and don't put the feedback off until later, it will be too late then.
Remember our code of ethics includes the Golden Rule, so treat others as you want to be treated.
Thank Marian, I agree that it would be much easier to give feedback within 24 hours of the showing. It keeps the property fresh in your mind. We get many, many calls for feedback. However, if it was done the night coming back in from the showing, this would alleviate 95% of these calls. Thanks for your input!
Our company sets up an email feedback system that generates a feedback form and emails the showing agent with request for feedback. It's a quick form that surprisingly many agents don't take the time to fill out. If they don't fill out the form, I make a call to them to see if I can get them on the phone, if I don't I'll leave them a message expecting full well no call back.
I have to be honest, I am happy to give feedback when I get an email but I won't call the listing agent back with feedback. I should make it a habit to email the listing agent with feedback as a courtesy.
Hi Pam, With feedback, I think that so much depends on what else is going on in my life at the time. 7 days a week, some are 10 to 12 hour days out with customers, the rest of my work is piling up on my desk when I get back in to the office. It still must be done too. So, often I am up till 1:00 AM trying to get caught up. I deal with the feedback requests a few at a time, and sometimes it's not as quickly as the other agents would like to have it. I think I will try to provide it each evening as I get back in from showing houses that day. Thanks for your feedback!
I prefer email requests for feedback and try to get back to those...the phone calls are hit or miss...I try to answer my phone but I too have buyers and when showing a lot its hard to keep up with all the phone calls...sites like Homefeedback.com are great and I prefer to give feedback to those emails.
Hi Sonia, Feedback is typically not a problem, but many houses in a short time, makes things very hairy sometimes. Thanks for your honesty and take care!
I had small cards made up, that say "Thank you for the opportunity to show your home" with all of my info, and a space on the back for comments. When I show a home, I write comments on the back and always leave it with my card. That cuts down the calls by a lot! Andrea Brandt, MI Realtor
Hi Andrea, I have never heard of that - but that's interesting. I like the thank you for showing your home comment! Thanks for sharing what works for you!
Agree, when you are seeing 20+ homes a day, it is difficult to keep track of what you saw. The feedback would be if the client decides to go back to the home. Many buyers do not want what they think to be conveyed to the seller anyway.
Hi Bob and Carolin, It is quite difficult to keep one home separated from another. When I am showing homes, I know that I have a tendency to push the ones that the buyers don't like out of my mind. Because often there are so many questions on the ones that they do have an interest in, and so much follow up that I need to remember to ask. Interesting that you are the first to mention that many buyers do not want what they think to be passed along to the seller anyway. You know, I completely agree with you! I have had buyers step outside a property and make confidential comments to me on a home, that I am certain that under no circumstances would the seller want to hear. And, I would never consider passing them along! Thanks for bringing a completely different perspective to the table! So true!
I always tell my Sellers that I will call for feedback the next business day. This way if they have a showing on the weekend, I will call for feedback on Monday morning. The reason I do this (and I tell my Sellers this) is to respect the other agent's time. I find the showing agent is more responsive and in a better position to give accurate feedback when they are not at a social event or spending time with the family. I've been in your position before and what works best for me is to ask the listing agent to send me an e-mail so that I can respond to them when I am in front of the computer and can pull the listing to refresh my memory. I always try to give very specific feedback even if it is not positive, but when you have shown so many sometimes the best you can do is tell them which ones your buyer did like and why. Even though this is not specific to their listing at least it will let the listing agent and sellers know what your buyers is looking for. Good luck!
If an agent calls or emails me within 2 days of showing or previewing, I give them feedback. After that, I usually have forgotten all the details of their listing, unless my buyer liked it.
This past year, I have done away with "calling" for feedback. I send the buyer's agent an e-mail as soon as I find out they have shown my listing. This way, no annoying phone calls while the other agent may be on a listing appointment, office meeting, showings with buyers, in the middle of dinner...etc. When the buyer's agent has a few minutes to unwind (you know....11 pm!) they can shoot me a quick e-mail response. This usually works well for busy agents.
Hi JoEllen, I think it's a good idea to be sitting in front of the computer and looking at the listing before providing feedback (if you don't still have a copy of the listing sheet). I also agree that feedback on weekends should be avoided, as agents are distracted. Excellent points - thanks for the feedback!
Hi Vicki, I would tend to agree with you on the 2 day time frame. After that it is hard to remember what we have seen. After looking at 15 in one day, it is hard to remember what the ones in the morning looked like, if they didn't like them. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Denise, I am hearing that many prefer an email over a call. And some have said that in their area calls are unheard of. I think calls should be done away with, because so often, as you pointed out, we are sitting in front of another customer, or out with our buyer. E mails can provide us the opportunity to find a time that works for us - I agree. Thanks!
Our MLS uses Centralized Showing services, which automatically emails out requests 2 hours after a showing.
About 50% of the time we get feedback from an agent. I just tell my sellers that if there's not an offer coming in, that's your feedback.
I usually call the listing agent as I'm leaving the property, and most times get voice mail. I'll leave a quick message as to what I thought. As a buyer's agent I hesitate to mention the buyer's thoughts not wanting to reveal a clients motivation.
Hi Linda, I would say that about 50% of the time we are able to get feedback from other agents on showings. You statement is absolutely correct... if there's no offer, that's feedback, or if there is a second showing, that is feedback also. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Jim, Wow, you're doing better than I am if you're able to call with feedback as you leave the house. I find myself trying to answer buyers questions, looking at the neighborhood and area at looking to see where we're headed next. I agree with you that I hesitate to mention the buyer's thoughts that quickly, as we aren't always sure what their motivations are. I appreciate the feedback!
You really touched on something here and I found it so interesting to read all these responses. I liked the idea of a feedback card but that seems to have some issues with it too... the email response helps for me personally but I agree when you are working a lot it gets to be tough to remember what and get back to people. I have found myself jotting a few personal notes on each listing sheet for feedback purposes and so that I also will quickly remember which property if the customer has a question later . It helps me remember " OH that was the house with the gorgeous hardwood floors , or cigarette odor" etc. Great post!
Uh yea, got one of those pesky feedback calls yesterday. I enter 50-70 homes a week. I enter them for rentals, resales and BPOs. Yes, a week and she was annoyed cuz I couldn't remember!
Hi Shannon, I thought the post would probably strike a cord, as I know the past few weeks got a bit crazy for me and my phone would not stop ringing - while out with the buyers. It was nuts! It's helpful knowing that I'm not the only one running like a nut. and I enjoyed the feedback very much. Thanks for the compliment on the post!
Hi Renee, 50 to 70 homes a week! That would really get to be too much! All we can do is the best we can do. And the reality of it is, that if you can't remember a particular home, then that is feedback in and of itself. That speaks volumes. Don't tear your hair out!
I always try to respond to any feed back requests either via the phone or email. If the request comes in a week or two later I don't feel obligated. When I call for feed back on my own listings I try to do it within 48 hours of the showing. One phone call and message and one email to the agent, if I don't get a response I report that to the seller as well. All you can do is your best when responding, sometimes there are not enough hours in the day!
Hi Sandy,
Congrats on the gold star! Very good ideas here.
Ann
Feedback makes our profession so much better if you can't give feedback when your showing property you are not doing your job. Great post and keep it coming.
Hi Laurie, I like to request feedback on my showings the next day or day after the showing. If I get no response I pass that info along to the seller. Many times we do not get return calls. I do agree, under certain circumstances, sometimes there just aren't enough hours in the day! Thanks for your feedback!
Hi Ann, There you are again. I just want to let you know that I absolutely LOVE having you here on my blog. You're terrific! You always take the time to respond to my posts, no matter what. Thanks for your friendship! And thanks for the congratulations! There are many, many great ideas the come out of being here on Active Rain. Take care!
Donald, Thanks for your input on the post and thanks also for the generous compliment! Being here on Active Rain allows us to bring these good points to light!
It's our duty to give feedback! I always try to call the agents FIRST. I get frustrated when few agents call me back when I need feedback, so I try to set a standard and hope for good karma!!
In our area, we try to put packets of information in the homes (usually on the kitchen counterop.) Along with that is a clipboard with lines that show the date, agent's name and their comments. If there is no clipboard, I will usually put my comments on the back of my business card or email the agent the next day if time is a problem.
I usually make quick notes on the homes I show on the listing page itself. This helps me and the buyer to jog our memories later if needed, and makes it easier to respond to feedback. I try to respond to feedback, and find it easier if by email and within a few days of showing.
We use a system here called Showing Solutions which automatically emails a feedback form with customized questions to the agent. This seems to get a much better response than calling since it can be filled out at their leisure
I always provide feedback on my showings... however, our system sends out an email to the person showing the listing, asking for feedback. That email goes out immediately after the time scheduled for the appointment, so the agent gets it shortly after showing the house. There are bullet point questions, with radio buttons; and you just pick the right answer (or add your own to the blank spot). It's fast, easy and it gets back to the listing agent immediately The listing agent can, in turn, forward it to the seller if they so wish, or they can combine all the feedback into a summary page. It works beautifully and saves time.
When I show buyers around, I complete the feedback via the showing service. If an agent calls while I'm still showing, I tell them I can't talk now, please watch for the feedback via the showing service or I'll call them later.
When I'm the listing agent, I tell my sellers to please be patient because the buyer's agent is probably still with the buyer. If I don't get any feedback from the agent who showed the home by 8pm, I call. At 9 I send an email. Sometimes I never hear back from the agent. I hate it when that happens. :)
I have a designated time for feedback every night. Actually, it's designated for feedback & several other must-do's for me, depending on whether or not I've shown property that day (otherwise I may spend the time blogging!!). I also have times allotted on Monday & Thursday, mid-morning, to call for feedback from agents who didn't respond to my self-generated e-mails (3 e-mails over a 48 hour span) from CSS.
As primarily a listing agent, I know how important feedback can be to a seller and how hard it can be to get a showing agent to actually provide constructive feedback...something other than "nice listing" or "didn't work for these buyers." Give me something I can work with, not just a general comment that you use on all showings that don't turn into an offer. Take notes (as you ask your buyer to do) and refer to those notes when giving feedback.
I'm brutally honest with my feedback and often get snide remarks from listing agents who don't want to hear it...I just try to help them get it sold because that's what feedback is for! If the wallpaper from 1824 is killing showings, let them know it's hideous and needs to be replaced! Pet odor, repairs needed, overpriced...let them know why your clients kept looking so they can suggest changes to their seller!!
Personally, I think feedback should be a job requirement...as difficult as it may be to provide at times. Like everything else in this business, a system in place will make it seem routine no matter how many properties you show.
I tell the selling agent, in advance, that I will be e-mailing feedback so that they can better share it with their seller. It keeps them from repeatedly calling and allows me to quickly handle a few at a time which is much more eficient. Normally I send the feedback first thing in the AM, before most agents have had their first cup of coffee.
You are definitely correct in saying that sometimes there is just not time left in the day for giving feedback. I try to give it as quickly and efficiently as I am able to but it doesn't fall very high on my priority list. I usually am able to give showing feedback within 24 hours and I usually e-mail unless they call me. The agent who called five times in one afternoon is a little much. What do they need to know that cannot wait until you are finished with your client? I like receiving feedback but I do not demand it the minute they lock the house up after viewing it. I like Ron's idea of e-mailing before the showing so the agent knows what to expect...it may not deter some agents from pestering you on the phone but it should cut down on the copious feedback requests.
I agree that often we don't have the time to give feedback right away. If I'm on a "showing blitz" with buyers (12-18 properties in one day) or have several back-to-back appointments, I don't have the time to give the feedback right away. I always take print outs of all the properties we are viewing (separate handouts for the clients). I have them in the order we are viewing the properties. We all take notes on the back of the sheets. That way, if I don't get a chance to call the agent and they contact me, I have all the notes and can give them valuable information to pass on to the seller. I also have the notes on file if the clients want to review properties with me.
Hi Mindy, Good thought in trying to set the standards, and hopefully the good karma will come your way! Thanks for sharing!
Hi Celina, In a small percentage of our listings there are packets of info on the counter. In some of our bank owned homes we will find a clipboard where we can include our name and time of our showing. They don't typically allow for feedback comments, though. I have heard about comments on the back of the business card, this seems to be a popular idea. I appreciate your comment.
Hi Christine, I encourage the buyer to take notes directly on their listings sheets. This way we can refer back and the houses can stay fresh in their minds. Off though, I know that I push the houses they didn't like to the back of my mind. Have a great hump day!
HI Matt and Sylvie, It sounds like your feedback requests are similar. It seems like the email requests for feedback are more favored than agent phone calls. Thanks for the info on what works best for both of you!
Hi Maria, I really don't care for the calls that come in when I'm still out with the buyers. Give me some time to breathe. I like the idea that you give them ttime to call contact you with feedback, and if you don't hear then you call them. Glad you have a system that works for you. You're always going to run into situations where you don't have 100% feedback. Take care and stay warm.
Real Estate Choice, Wow it sounds like you really have your schedule regimented...a luxury when working with listings. Sounds great! I do believe when giving feedback we must be honest. General comments aren't much help, you're right. I called on one yesterday. The home was located in a beautiful location and the owner had three sweet little dogs. But the home smelled of animals and the buyer indicated she would have to take out all the carpeting before she ever moved. I passed the information along. Hopefully, it will help that owner sell the house, later.
Hi Ron, I like the idea that you tell the listing agent ahead of time that you will be passing along feedback. That must alleviate many phone calls. Furnishing the feedback first thing in the AM before everyone else it up sounds like a great idea! Thanks for passing along the info!
Hi Jenn, I liked Ron's idea also, and told him that. I think providing feedback within 24 hours of the showing is key, otherwise, you get behind and are dead in the water. Then everything else snowballs and you have forgotten the house. Thanks and I hope you have a productive end of the week!
Hi Jenn, I liked Ron's idea also, and told him that. I think providing feedback within 24 hours of the showing is key, otherwise, you get behind and are dead in the water. Then everything else snowballs and you have forgotten the house. Thanks and I hope you have a productive end of the week!
Hi Bonnie, Taking notes seems to be the name of the game here. It makes the most sense - and keeping them on file is definitely a plus for future reference with the buyers or the other agents. Thanks!
Sandy,MY friend,
Thank you for always being here for me too! I appreciate your friendship. It is great to know someone in Florida is my good friend.
Ann
Hi Ann, Anything you ever need, you just let me know...I'm happy to help. And I too, feel so fortunate to have you as my friend. Thanks for always being there, reading my posts and your great comments! Take care!
Sandy,
You are awesome! I am happy you are my friend. I wonder if your ears were ringing today....I was talking about it. Don't worry it was all good!
Ann
Hi Ann, Thanks so much - I feel exactly the same way you do! Take care!
Buyers agents can be sued for giving feedback - by their clients. No I do not give feedback!
Sandy,
Did you know buyer's agents can get sued for giving feedback?
Ann