It should be something so obvious as to not be worth the mentioning, but communication with your clients is key to building their trust in you and their desire to buy or sell a home through you. You don't need to be available 24/7 to provide your clients with good communication. By setting some boundaries for yourself and for your clients, you can make sure that they aren't left hanging, but your life isn't on hold while you are working for them.
Set working hours for yourself, when clients know they can expect communication from you. Once it is clear that you have a schedule, most clients will fall in happily with that. You can even put this information with the rest of your contact information, such as:
Joe Realtor
(888) 555-5555
Hours: 9AM-5PM
You may also find that informing your clients that you check and respond to communications regularly at 11AM and 3PM can really help in setting their expectations for your time. Things like this can be very reassuring to people who are worried about getting regular responses from their agent. "I will call you about your offer tomorrow." Even if there's nothing to report, call them to tell them that.
Once you have done all this - set boundaries for yourself, set expectations for your clients - STICK TO THEM! I cannot emphasize this enough! The number-one complaint that clients have is that their real estate agent doesn't get back to them often enough or completely enough. Make sure that you are paying attention to what your clients say and get back to them in a timely manner.
You should take time every day to review your clients and ensure that you're keeping up with their needs. Sometimes you may have to go the extra mile - email them a few extra times or call to find out how their sick kid is doing or things like that. It can pay off with a great impression of your professionalism and genuine desire to help make their lives better. While you may have done a dozen real estate transactions like this one, it is good to remember that to each and every client, their situation is unique.
With the advent of the smart phone, communication is easier than ever before - which can be a blessing and a curse. Use your communication tools; don't be used by them! You want to be available to your clients, but you don't need to be available all the time. However, you need to use your communication tools to keep your clients up-to-date on their situation in a manner that increases their belief in your concern with their well-being and the quality of their real estate transaction.
Work with a qualified, dedicated agent for your next Metro Washington D.C. real estate purchase. Justin Lee will help you find the perfect home in Georgetown.
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