The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the word ‘Manifesto’ as “a written statement declaring publicly the intentions, motives, or views of its issuer”. The closest we would come to reading a manifesto is before a crucial election when a political party or an aspiring candidate would publish one. It is a detailed statement that tells people what the party/candidate is about and what they hope to achieve by contesting the elections.
The realtor’s profession or the Indian real estate industry, in general, was till recently quite unorganized and hence maligned and misunderstood too. However, in recent times, with new and relevant rules and laws being implemented, things have looked up, giving it a semblance of professionalism, and this has boosted its image.
If realtors like us, who wear the tag of the professional realtor quite proudly, decide to pen down a manifesto, it would be a revelation to people outside of the industry and a stark reminder to most of our brethren too. It will also shine light upon the so-called “real estate agents” and highlight the difference between them and professional REALtors. So here goes:
The Indian Realtor may wear many hats during his workday but he isn’t any of the following:
- Your Realtor isn’t your driver:
If you ever got the impression that during the sale or purchase of a property, your realtor’s car is a travel aid built into the whole package, think again. Uber or Ola are capable transport options so let your realtor do his REAL job, i.e. of helping you to buy the right property and sell yours for the right price to the right person. He will deal with the documentation, the multiple government/municipal paperwork, and all that is needed to ensure a smooth transaction throughout. He doesn’t drive you around because he is “supposed” to, he is only extending his courtesy. Isn’t that sweet? - Your Realtor isn’t after your money:
Most people outside the realm of business believe that the sales commission is THE driving force behind a realtor’s motivation to help sell or buy a home. But let’s get this straight. There are hundreds of property websites, apps, and fly-by-night operators who are encroaching upon an already crowded space of the real estate business. A professional realtor will research the property, explain its value to you or your buyer, help you quote the right price and go the extra mile to ensure you don’t lose on the deal. The commission is merely an outcome of the effort he or she takes to ensure the sale/purchase is a win-win for all those involved. The competition is cut-throat and the business is subject to many economic and social factors. Also remember, your friendly neighborhood realtor has to keep the kitchen fires burning at home and in the office too. Money is important but a professional realtor does a lot more than you realize. - Your Realtor isn’t an emotional fool: A good realtor never loses his cool because his client isn’t able to decide upon a place even after a zillion places are showcased. Screaming at your counterpart or using foul language isn’t how a realtor reacts, whatever the situation. He does not let emotions get the better of himself and in the bargain, loses a deal for himself and his client. If your realtor does anything from the above mentioned, it is time to move on and associate yourself with a professional.
With that taken care of, let’s see what your Realtor is:
- A realtor is a marketing wizard: The only thing missing from your realtor’s ensemble kit is the magic wand. On a serious note, he markets your home for you in the right way that it deserves to be. For him, your property is unique and he will have identified its distinctiveness during his first interaction with you. He knows which home will be picked up by investors and which property will have home buyers swarming over, and also knows the reasons for it. A good realtor knows the strong and weak points of a property and will showcase them in the right way, at the right time.
- A realtor is your ardent supporter: With a good realtor by your side, you can be assured of solid advice and support when you need it. He will negotiate hard on your behalf so you do not lose. He is dedicated to protecting your interests at all times to give you the best possible deal during a purchase or a sale. You know you are working with a professional when he keeps looking for points to negotiate for you or wiggle in an additional amount for something that you thought had little value. It’s great to have someone who has your back, all the time.
- A realtor has a keen eye and an open mind: When you have set your eyes on a premium property with 3 bedrooms, and suddenly lower your sights to a smaller, suburban property, your realtor will ask you one pertinent question. Why? He will not merely nod in the affirmative and run out to show you the latter. He won’t do this merely because his commission is at stake but his sole aim is to revisit the client’s goals once again and remind him about it. It is his job to ensure the client’s focus doesn’t shift during the entire process. Your realtor is in this business for the long haul and this business is not for the weak-hearted nor for ‘part-timers’ you would find mushrooming every weekend. A part-timer in this business would never know the shifting paradigms of this dynamic market by spending a few leftover hours of his day. The true professional Indian realtor is a tough guy and he stays with his clients long after the deal has closed. He will still text, call, or visit you, looking for opportunities to help you find solutions to any problem. When you work with a professional realtor the experience can be very satisfying. Why wouldn’t you hire a professional when you are about to enter into, what could possibly be the largest financial transaction of your lifetime? You would not take any chances when the stakes as so high and only expert service and advice will help you to navigate these turbulent waters with professional ease.