Judy Hicks
RE/MAX Coastal Real Estate
(A.) When bringing a buyer to a builder’s site I want to know that I can trust the agent to handle the buyer the way that I would. That means being available even on a day off, making sure to include me in all correspondence, and letting me know when the buyer stops by without me. I really want the site agent to be a member of the Sales and Marketing Council so I can get to know them and their builder (this can be accomplished easily by being a member of SMC and attending the monthly breakfast programs and networking events). Having “one on one’s” with the site agents in this city has helped me get to know them personally and professionally. It’s all about trust.
Beverly Smith
The Legends of Real Estate
(A.) I feel there are two categories which are equally as important between the site agents and Realtors.
The first being community information and updates. I like to know when new lots become available, any new product being introduced, specials being offered on inventory or presales as well as any news within the community which might be of interest to a buyer.
The second category would be open communications after the sale is made. During the construction of a new home there are meetings set between the builder and buyer.
The Realtor should be copied on all correspondence in order to be kept in the loop.
Communication is key as the common goal is to make building a new home a pleasant experience for ALL.
Gary Harlow
Watson Realty Corp.
(A.) This is an easy question! I have had the pleasure of working with many great site agents over the years, and here are some of their finer qualities:
1. They appreciate my customers coming into their community. They are friendly and informative (notice I didn’t say talkative.)
2. They respect my time by attending to my customers’ needs first. They learn the customer to know how to present what’s important to them.
3. They understand how their product is different from the competition and present that in a positive way.
4. They know their community, and can present it well. They know the schools too.
5. They allow me to step back and listen to the customers as well.
6. They return phone calls. I like to call ahead for appointments and sometimes I am forced to leave a message.
7. They keep me in the loop during the process.
8. They invite me to networking events.
Linda Hutchins
LMH Realty, LLC
(A.) A good relationship between site agent and Realtor begins long before a buyer is involved. The Realtor needs consistent communication from the site agent with easy access to information and updates. A sense of confidence, trust and respect will develop from this and paves the way when a buyer shows interest in new construction to the Realtor. The Realtor will willingly and confidently bring that buyer to the site agent, knowing that the buyer is in good hands and that it will reflect well on the Realtor. A happy customer for the Realtor means referral business!
Ron Harris
Harris Realty Partners, LLC
(A.) The Realtor and Site Agent relationship should be one that is cultivated by keeping in touch with the Realtor regularly to advise them on what is happening with their Builder and Community. Realtors are not able to know all the details of every Community and every Builder, so they expect the Site Agent to be the “EXPERT” on what their Builder and Community offers. They also need to be ready to properly answer the buyers questions concerning the features, construction specifications and all details relating to the home. A Realtor expects a professional and friendly greeting. I expect the Site Agent to specialize in matching up the Buyers “Wants, Interests and Needs”, to the homes and home sites the Builder has in inventory or is willing to build.
A professional Realtor also expects a quality new home presentation, one that will work towards the close, if the buyer seems interested and ready.