While most qualified homebuyers with a ready down payment and good credit history are more than welcome by any Sarasota real estate agent, a real estate investor is seen as a pain. In fact, most Sarasota real estate agents consider real estate investors a complete headache when it comes to purchasing any property.
There are two main reasons for this…
First of all, like any businessperson, a real estate agent likes making a quick and hassle-free profit. Secondly, many real estate agents do not have the experience, expertise, or willingness to handle the creative deals that real estate investors need.
Nevertheless, real estate investors have no choice but to use an agent because that is the only place where they can access the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
Therefore, it is in the best interest of the investor to get on the “good” side of a real estate agent. Here are a few tips…
1. Offer a fast closing. Real estate agents love “quick” deals. A realtor would much rather have the chance of making a commission in 2 weeks as compared to 2 months. Also, real estate agents are much more likely to take you seriously if you offer a fast closing.
2. Offer a down payment. Most real estate investors are used to paying little or no upfront payment, however, if you want a realtor take you seriously than offer a serious down payment.
More often than not, a real estate agent will recommend the home seller accept a lower offer if the overall package is better…meaning the offer has a higher down payment and a faster, hassle-free closing.
3. Offer the offer yourself. Sometimes real estate investors can come up with very “creative” offers. Try persuading the real estate agent to allow you to present the offer directly to the seller (with the agent present of course). You want the seller to hear the offer directly from you, as no one else can match your precision and passion in presenting the offer. It will also allow the seller to address any questions directly to you, instead of going through the real estate agent as a middleman.
As a real estate investor you may come across many uncooperative real estate agents. A number of Sarasota real estate agents would prefer not to work with real estate investors because it requires more work than simply writing up a contract and handing over the keys. Don’t get discouraged though…there are also many Sarasota real estate agents who enjoy working with real estate investors…especially those that follow the tips above.tmw maxwell