 Posted 4/13/2007 6:34:58 PM
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A potential buyer called and said she loves the neighborhood, saw the pictures on the website, and really really really needs a garage like ours. She thought the house was ideal for her, and even mentioned "saving us the trouble of an open house" this weekend. She said she'd drive by the house and take a look, and then let us know if she wants to make an appointment to see it this evening. Well, that was the last we heard from her.
This is not the first time someone said they'll drive by the house and take a look, then never called back. The curb appeal is there - new sod, pond, fountain, colorful annuals, blooming jasmine on the arbor, weeded flower beds, clean driveway. What gives? What can possibly be scaring away buyers before they even make it through the front door?
How much, and what, does a drive-by say about a house anyway?
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Posted 4/15/2007 11:10:41 AM
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Can you call them back and get feed back? I know from showing houses, most buyers are not comfortable looking at houses when owner is home. It prevents them from patiently looking at all details they may be interested in. I've seen sellers get so excited, they start talking and talking and don't allow buyers to properly see themselves in that house. I make it a policy with my sellers to leave their houses if buyers are previewing. If it's possible for people that will "Drive by" to stop and see your house without being there, it may be an option. Something to think about.
Bo Villacis
Real Estate Professional
WWW.Bovillacis.com
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Posted 4/16/2007 10:49:58 AM
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HI Alex,
Home buyers are finicky today, especially since they have so many homes to choose from. This particular person may have just been blowing hot air or couldn't afford your price, OR her husband said no. You just don't know so don't obsess over it.
Don't get discouraged. Remember you're selling a home and just like any sales process, you're going to encounter a lot of tire kickers. And, a lot of inconsiderate people.
I certainly hope you didn't cancel your open house based on that individual's statement. In this business, I wouldn't trust anyone unless the statement is in writing and you've received and successfully cashed a deposit check.
Selling your home is numbers game and it's just a matter of time before the right person sees it and buys it.
From what you say, you have a really nice home and it will sell.
By the way, how did the open house go?
In terms of what Bo said regarding letting people see your home, I wouldn't abandon your home so some stranger can walk through it. But I would give the potential buyer space to view your home. Be unobtrusive and hang out in the kitchen or living room. When they have questions, they'll ask you.
Good luck!
FSBO Guru
Owners.com
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Posted 4/16/2007 2:03:12 PM
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Hey Guru!! you have a great heart.
This forum is lucky to have you here to properly guide and advice them.
I see your advice as very objective and honest.
Peace my friend.
Bo Villacis
Real Estate Professional
WWW.Bovillacis.com
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Posted 4/17/2007 5:47:29 AM
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FSBO Guru,
Thanks! I did talk to the woman and she said it was just "too much house" for her. (Sigh!)
I did not cancel my open house, but I think I should have. We advertised it from 1-4pm and free plasma tv with purchase. Not a single person came by! No one even slowed down!
My next-door neighbors were also having an open house that day through their real estate agent, but from 3:30-5:00pm. We went ahead and extended our open house until 5:00, and at 5:00, a woman stopped to look. She parked her big SUV on our new sod instead of using the large circular drive, and when she came in I told her to help herself to a flyer and take a look around, and I would be in the dining room if she had any questions.
You would have thought this woman was on a scavenger hunt or in a marathon or something. She all but RAN through the house, barely looking at anything, then said "thank you, I''ll be back," and went next door to do the same. Her visit was maybe 1-2 minutes total at my house, then maybe 1-2 minutes at my neighbor's house. Neither of us ever saw or heard from her again, but the tire tracks on my lawn will be proof of her visit for many months to come. (Sigh, again!)
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Posted 4/17/2007 10:00:06 AM
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HI Alex,
You certainly are racking up the rude visitors.
Just remember, these are very slow times and the open house experience your neighbor had with an agent confirms that.
By the way, have you read the "It takes patience" postings under the Making the Sale forum? That may help you see that you're not alone.
Hang in there, the right buyer will show up.
FSBO Guru
Owners.com
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Posted 12/28/2007 1:29:33 PM
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Most people are to nice to tell it to you straight that they are not interested. Nobody wants to hurt anyones feelings. I wouldn't take it personally.
DebtFreeDave
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Posted 2/6/2008 8:45:42 PM
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Hello,
You can advertise a chance at a drawing for anyone that visits, maybe $25 of $50 gift card. They must sign it to be eligible. This may draw people and you can use the list to contact people that have seen the home in case you drop the price or make any other changes that may interest a buyer. Also, if your open house is on Sunday, you may try having on Saturday or one day during the week. Also, you can contact the realtor offices in your area and find out when they are going to caravan homes in your area. Ask if they would add your home to the list. Offer refreshment and they may come. You will need to be willing to work with agent on commission. This will help the agents get to know your home and maybe your home will have something the homes in the MLS system does not. Also, If you do not have flyers, make sure you put some on your sign. This will help you determine how many people are coming by that you may not be aware. I hope this helps. Good Luck
Emily Drummond
Realtor
USAF Retired
478-328-8948
www.middlega-homefinder.com
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