Is Your Agent Ghosting Buyers? Here’s Why It Matters More Than You Think
Selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and let’s be honest - there’s already enough stress involved without your agent adding to the mix. But what if I told you that some agents, instead of rolling out the red carpet for buyers, are rolling up the welcome mat?
The Silent Treatment: Not Just for Middle School
In my real estate adventures, I’ve found one consistent truth: a shocking number of listing agents don’t return phone calls. I’m not talking about a one-time delay. I mean flat-out, ghosting-level silence. Buyers’ agents call to ask questions or schedule a showing, and crickets. Meanwhile, the seller (you know, the one paying the commission) has no clue their home’s biggest fans are being left on “read.”
If you’re selling your home, imagine this: You’ve hired someone to shout from the rooftops about your house, and instead, they’re whispering into a pillow. That lack of communication isn’t just bad manners - it’s bad business. Fewer calls returned equals fewer buyers viewing your home, which can mean fewer offers and, ultimately, less money in your pocket.
Hoops, Hurdles, and MLS Headaches
Now, let’s talk about the dreaded “hoop jumpers” in our profession. These are the agents who make you feel like you’re applying for a loan just to schedule a showing. Some will only allow showings through certain apps or refuse entirely unless you belong to their specific MLS. Case in point: I once had an agent refuse to let me view a property unless I joined an MLS - or went through another agent in my office who was a member. Really? Is it real estate or a country club?
The truth is, every hoop, hurdle, and hassle means fewer buyers see the home. Fewer buyers seeing the home? You guessed it - less competition, lower offers, and a longer time on the market.
Why Sellers Should Care
Here’s the kicker: Sellers are often blissfully unaware this is happening. They assume their agent is working tirelessly to get the best deal, not realizing their listing is essentially invisible to interested buyers.
If you’re selling your home, ask your agent these questions:
How do you handle inquiries from buyer agents?
Are you proactive in returning calls and scheduling showings?
Do you make it easy for buyers to see the property, or are there restrictions?
And if their answers sound vague, defensive, or overly complicated, you might have a problem.
Wrapping It Up: A Call for Change (Literally)
Real estate isn’t rocket science, but it does require effort, communication, and a commitment to doing what’s best for the client. If your agent treats buyer inquiries like spam calls or makes it harder to see your home than to buy a Taylor Swift concert ticket, it’s time to reconsider who you’ve hired.
Remember, selling your home shouldn’t feel like a secret operation. A great agent will make it easy, seamless, and transparent - because in real estate, as in life, communication is key. And if you ever need someone who answers every call (even on vacation), just call Jenn. 🦁
