What a week in the pressure cooker of real estate!
I was waiting for a lunch date today when a client called. My last phone conversation with this client ended on what he thought was a negative note and he called to say that he appreciated the hard work I was doing to sell his listing and that he valued my efforts. That's all it took for the tears to flow. A week of frustration came out right there in the restaurant. My lunch date showed up, saw my face and thought someone had died.
My frustrations include several escrows disrupted by appraisal issues. One escrow, only 2 days from closing, had a desk review of the appraisal that came in 15% below the purchase price!!!! The mortgage broker, dumbfounded, talked with the underwriter who admitted the desk review was done by someone who used "public records," had no access to our MLS or comps and was not a licensed appraiser.
The underwriter, not wanting to disrespect the company that does their desk reviews, refused to deal with this problem. We are working it out, but not without A LOT of frustration and nail biting.
In another instance, I had a client let me know she decided to list with another office because "a friend who knows a lot about selling houses told her that it was a good idea to use the other office." Ouch! I did let her know I have sold more listings so far this year than any other agent, but I know how convincing friends can be, so gave up on trying to win her back. You win some, you lose some.
I could go on with one hurdle and disappointment after another, but what's the point. Every real estate professional is running up against trying situations that call for diligence, perseverance, ingenuity and prayer, so I wouldn't be telling you about anything you probably haven't experienced yourself.
Along with the frustration, there has been a lot of joy. I had the honor of handing the keys to a first time home buyer last week. A lovely lady who purchased her first home and was beyond happy and thrilled with her purchase. I had the pleasure of giving keys to another first time home buyer this week who had a huge smile and thanked me profusely and I closed today on a home for a couple relocating from out of the area. All were happy with their home purchases and thanked me for my hard work.
My job is the greatest. I love it most of the time. Even when it's frustrating, difficult and I'm dealing with people who make no sense (desk reviews [with no comps] of appraisals done by licensed appraisers), I focus on the fact I am learning how to be a better professional with each hurdle I maneuver.
Have a wonderful weekend and find time to decompress.
Thank you for stopping by. Your comments on this post are welcomed and appreciated.
No one sold more homes in Del Norte County in 2009--*both in number and volume--than Fran. Put Fran to work for you!
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