This morning’s e-mail had this question from a visitor to one of our websites:
The contract with my realtor expires on Jan 20. I’m looking for another realty company; why should I choose Keller Williams?….
These inquiries always make me suspect and so I go to The Realtor Code of Ethics to make sure I handle this appropriately. So a quick scan of The Code leads me to an adequate answer:
When REALTORS ® are contacted by the client of another REALTOR® regarding the creation of an exclusive relationship to provide the same type of service, and REALTORS® have not directly or indirectly initiated such discussions, they may discuss the terms upon which they might enter into a future agreement or, alternatively, may enter into an agreement which becomes effective upon expiration of any existing exclusive agreement. (Amended 1/98)
This individual did initiate the contact via e-mail and states that he is “looking for another realty company.”
It is surely not ethical in my opinion to discuss why the home has not sold (listed since 7/2006) or to give any advice on how to get it sold before the end of the current agreement. But to try to sell myself and Keller Williams Realty and solicit the listing once expired is ethical, at least per The Code.
So I provide some information on why I am associated with Keller Williams Realty and why I believe I can help him meet his goal.Â
With these stagnant market conditions, many listings are expiring with few showings and no offers. Many sellers are seeking other firms and agents to help them find a buyer. But just changing agents and/or brokerage firms may do very little to make much of a difference. A strong marketing plan that provides maximum exposure to prospective buyers is a no brainer, but in the end, price is the main factor in getting a home sold.
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