BACK TO BASICS

The term "back to basics" has been echoed through and through the real state community, but it really applies to all small businesses.  In today's "techno world" of blogging, facebook, twitter, and texting all sales professionals need to realize that we need to be face to face with our customers and talk to them on a regular basis.  With the economy turned upside down, everyone is trying to figure out the "new way of doing business" and I would submit to anyone that is selling any sort of service or product that you get back to the basics.  Handwritten thank you notes, phone calls, and the old stop by and say hello.  These things take time, but I would say that those that practice these skills on a regular basis will succeed into the future.    We need to "reach out and touch" our customers, friends and family.  We need to go back to the way things were when I started selling real estate 20 + years ago.  We need to understand our customers needs better and give them resources to help them with their experience.  We also need to understand all facets of our business, lending, title, inspection, insurance and so we can help guide them through the process, not just make a sale.  Those days are gone and are not coming back.

It is all about relationships, trusting who you are going to do business with and understanding your choices, regardless of what you are buying, cars, homes, tires or a latte' and so it's time we embrace the new rules and it time to roll up our sleeves and get to work.  We need to share information, provide the best customer service and take care of those that support us (you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours)  as this is the "new way"  even though it has a lot of standard tools of the trade.  I think that facebook, twitter, and texting have really connected people at a whole new level and those need to be embraced too, they are not going away.  We just do not want to loose site of the basics.  

LIFE HAPPENS

Life happens to everyone and just wait a minute and something else will happen, right?  Marriage, divorce, new babies, losing a parent or loved one, job relocation, job loss and many more things that happen to everyone, all of the time. Seriously, not a day goes by that I don't receive a call from a homeowner with questions about what options they have in this market.  Today I told a couple that it is not about "getting the listing" or "selling them a new home" for me it is simply about sharing knowledge and information about their options.  This may not be the best time for them to sell and move, and it's my job to explain the market and give them a variety of choices to consider. Then it's up to them to decide what to do.  

Many homeowners are "underwater" and they may owe more for their home than it's worth in the current market.  There are a variety of reasons that this can happen and there are a variety of options that are available to help figure out what should be done.  The worst thing that can be done is nothing.  The quicker you take action and try and resolve the issues, the better off you are.  Regardless of what you hear or see in the national news, Missoula Montana's market is different from those around the country and even different than those around the state.  Do your "homework" and find out what options are available to you or someone that you know that may need some help.

FLIP THAT CALENDAR

Well, it appears as if January has come and gone and we need to flip the calendar once again.  I just have to say that it seems as though the real estate market is seeing a lot of activity for so early in the year.  Today, I had two listing appointments, and three market analysis appointments.  Many people are getting a "jump start" on getting their home on the market.  Others are discussing their options and want to know what they need to do to "get ready" to put their home on the market later his spring.  We do have some of our listings being shown too.  These are all good signs that our real estate market is beginning to see signs of life.  Interest rates are still great, inventory is strong, and it is a great time to buy!  

Our job is to help families analyze their options when it comes to housing.  We will meet with owners to answer questions, share ideas, and give a variety of choices that are currently available.  Selling and moving is not always the answer that we give.  We help owners explore the various directions that they can turn, depending on their current situation.  We also love to get the calls from sellers that are thinking about selling and need to know what they need to do to maximize their investment.  Sometimes the answers are very simple and cost effective, others take more money and time.   We will help determine the most "bang for the buck" if one is considering selling as an option.  Over the next few months I'll share some common questions and anwers that I get when it comes to home improvements.   I also have a great monthly newsletter full of helpful information for homeowners. Check it out:   http://realtytimes.com/147/DianeBeck

Have a great week and stay tuned for more
MAKE IT REAL...MISSOULA!