We Just Lost A Buyer, But Received Something Unusual In Return
Anyone who has ever been in sales understands the feeling of losing out on prospective business. It happens to the best of us and never feels good. However, something unique happened to us recently that was quite refreshing: we were treated with some actual common courtesy, a lost art among many consumers.
It never ceases to amaze me how poorly some people can treat those of us in sales, a field of which I've been part of for almost 20 years. We certainly understand that being in a service business requires thick skin. Consumers care only about their needs and do what they feel is necessary to get what they want. It's only business, nothing personal, we get it. Our reaction has always been to be gracious in defeat, smile and move on, although I'll admit, it does get old after a while.
However, yesterday, something unusual happened.
A few month ago, we sat down with a young couple, first time buyers. We gave them our first time buyer handbook and spent some considerable time educating them on the home buying process. We communicated frequently about homes that came on the market, but nothing caught their eye. After a while, they became unresponsive to us and I was curious as to why. I was hoping that at least they would email to let us know their thoughts. Sure enough, I got an email from them, one that sales people typically don't like receiving.
But this one was different. These young buyers took the time to construct a very flattering and well-written email. They expressed their appreciation of our time and efforts, and explained in detail how good they felt about us as real estate professionals. However, they ended up buying a home that they saw before they ever met us. There were no agents involved, so they weren't trying to circumvent us, and everything they said seemed genuine and above board. We wish them well.
Common courtesy happens so infrequently in our business, that when it does occur, it takes you by surprise. Even though rejection is part of life as an agent, it sure is nice to be turned down with some class every once in a while.
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About The Authors:
This information is provided compliments of Amy and Dan Schuman, The Schuman Team Keller Williams Realty. The Schumans service primarily the Eastern suburbs of Cleveland have worked with numerous professional athletes, business owners, and executives who are relocating to Cleveland. They specialize in the Cleveland Ohio luxury home market and also enjoy working with first-time buyers as well.
If you are looking to buy or sell Cleveland real estate, including the surrounding suburbs, please contact the Schuman Team at 216-346-3235.
SEE ALL CLEVELAND AREA HOMES FOR SALE BY CLICKING BELOW:
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We Just Lost A Buyer, But Received Something Unusual In Return is the property of The Schuman Team and may not be duplicated or used without their written consent. ©Feb2010
That was very nice of them , and who knows you may do business with them or one of their friends down the road.
The impression you left them with was certainly worth their time.
Good Luck
Good for you, and even better for them!! You will certainly get something in return, as "what goes around, comes around"
That was so nice that they responded...I think that is what typically bothers me more than anything...not knowing what happened...was it me or them!
I agree...how refreshing!
It is good they communicated that to you, but you need to ask why did they become quiet and not respond?
It's the little things that can keep you motivated. Congrats on your positive impression with them.
Don - Thank you for your comments. We would certainly enjoy a chance to work with their friends.
Dagny - That is our philosophy as well.
Deborah - Same with us. We just like to know where we stand with people, I don't think that's asking too much. Thanks for your comments.
Tim - I think they had their eye on this home for a long time and it wasn't until recently that the seller decided to cooperate with them. I am happy for them and they are moving to my town, so hopefully well run into them.
Mary - Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Things like this do stand out because it's so unusual. Who knows, maybe today's younger buyers just handle themselves better.
GOOD MORNING DAN! This really shows how you consistently find something positive and useful in any situation! How wonderful that there is still respect and common courtesy to be found! Enjoy your Friday! -- Gab
Gab, thanks as always for your comments. Hope all is well.
Dan/Amy: This certainly is a rare instance so I understand the motivation to blog about it! :-)
I also wanted to point out that since you were such a help to these folks (and they are hopefully now in your database and will be kept in touch with) I'm sure that you will get referrals from them and perhaps will even represent them down the road when they're ready to move up!
Best,
~Cari
Cari, thanks for commenting. We will put them in our database and hopefully they will think of us first if someone they know wants to buy or sell. Take care.