Is my realtor too slow in getting back to me?

Question

My realtor is focused on investing, which is great, but sometimes I cant get an answer from them for around a week, and sometimes longer. I'm wondering if there are better options or if this is par for the course.

For example, I'm asking my realtor for their input on 6 properties, and they're taking a few days to get back to me. But, I'm ready to buy, so it is frustrating when I don't hear back. I wanted some input from the BP community.

Thanks.

Frank Wong · Answer

Hi Timothy,

If you are a serious buyer that is actively engaging with your realtor.  Like hey can I see these 6 houses can you get me more info.  Those are buying questions.  Your realtor should get back to you within 24hrs no excuses unless they are out of town.  Not hard for an agent just to text back, I'll get you the info tomorrow if they are busy.

But if you are asking your agent about input on 6.  A top agent would know exactly what you are looking for and quickly tell you if 4 houses suck and don't waste your time and let's focus on these 2.  As long as you are serious and your intentions are serious like making market price offers a realtor will give you great service.  Now if its a bunch of low ball offers well your agent should have just fired you.  That's how it should be.  Everything should be transparent.

Unfortunately, in the real estate game, there are more bad agents than great ones.  It sounds like you need a new agent.

Chris Mason · Answer

Always three possibilities: the person being complained about sucks, or the person complaining sucks, or a combination of both. If you're responsive as you describe, then it's the agent that sucks.

Jay Hinrichs · Answer

that is a tough one.. However I can say as a 40 year veteran broker there Is no excuse for a week

in this new age were everyone hides behind text messages and E mail its uber frustrating.

and depends on how hot your market is..  and your volume and your ability to transact

Tire kickers in todays market don't get much love from most realtors. NOt saying you are.. but your criteria maybe such that your not realistic and your agent is feeling that.

Or you may want to just source your own deals like you see all these folks on BP do.. set up your farm ( target area ) get the list spend 5 to 10k up front in mailings for one year and just do your own deals.

Mindy Jensen · Answer

Account Closed , in the Navigation Bar, hover over Network and there is an option to find Real Estate Agents by location. Most agents on this site are familiar with investing...

Karl B. · Answer

I would check Trulia/Realtor/Zillow and look for agents with a decent number of reviews with good ratings. Then I'd check their sold properties to see if they deal in what I'm looking to buy (if it's a realtor who only deals in expensive SFH in the nice part of town they may not be a good match for me).

After finding the right realtor I'd message him/her and explain the situation - you're looking for X, you're prequalified for a loan or are paying cash and you'd like a responsive realtor so you can view and then offer on a property quick.

Michael Noto · Answer

Account Closed You should not be waiting a week in between responses. If you are in a compeitive market this will cost you deals if it hasn't already.

Eric Ingram · Answer

Account Closed I would network more with realtors and create a action/plan to call 10 realtors and start networking more so you have a team working for you.  Let them know you are a serious investor cash buyer.  Key thing is build rapport and keep calling realtors and building your network as you never know which one will have pocket deals so the more the better.

Best wishes

Account Closed · Answer

@Karl B. thanks that is a good way to find a realtor; I will do that. I've never thought of that strategy; I've only thought of getting referrals.

Douglas Felts · Answer

My reccommended rule 24hrs is most reasonable...if they're taking longer than that...than they could be neglecting in fiduciary responsibilities.

The scripts i was taught was "8-12pm we are working on you the clients behalf"(and actually do...not just say).

That seems to be the bare minimum standards...and aside from that take no longer than 24hrs(within sensible means)...a good agent should typically reply in 1to2 hours(during cant miss meeting).

Long story short in texas by trec rules(if applicable) he could be neglecting his fiduciary requirements.

Chris Mason · Answer

(1) is pretty much what I was going to say. "Hey here's six properties, please write a 5 paragraph essay about each, btw I can't answer a phone sorry, just text/email" = bottom of my to do list. Pick up the phone, call me back, or stop by my office, up to you, I'm happy to accommodate any of those 3.

(2) Yup. Agent has bills to pay.

Is my realtor too slow in getting back to me?

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