Dealing with Distractions...

Many of us in the real estate business are multi-taskers by nature. However, when your schedule is not set in stone, like an 8-5 job is, there is room for constant distractions.

I bring some of this on myself, by having a mindset that I have a "flexible" schedule and the next thing you know, productive work is out the window and I am the go to person for all kinds of things.

I recently volunteered to spend some time with my neighbor's brand new puppy because she has a "real job". As I was playing with that adorable little thing at noon today, I thought to myself...here is one more distraction, albeit a fun one, that I have obligated myself to. This dawned on me when Duke, the 9 week old wired haired daschund had an accident and I stepped in it and had to clean up a rather poopey mess. It took 4 times longer than the potty break I signed up for. Not to mention I had to go change my clothes!

I would not trade "being my own boss" for anything, don't get me wrong. But in this highly competitive market, with less volume turning, it is important for us as real estate professionals to watch our boundaries and obligations.

Schedule some clear cut productive time at the office, and yes, schedule your time off! As it is, we have a list of over 100 things we do as agents from A-Z. Your time is valuable so feel free to say "NO" and "no thank you" and "I am not available". Stick to your guns.
Time is our most valuable commodity.

Persistence, Productivity and Perseverance all take TIME. Beware of time-wasting distractions. They may cost you!

Stuck in the middle with you...Dual Agency

Remember that old song?
"Stuck in the middle with you?"
How many times have you represented both sides of a transaction? It can be sticky, tricky business. It is very important that dollar signs don't get in the way of cautious careful and dual representation. BEFORE deciding to represent both sides, take a breath - and ask yourself if this is beneficial for all. If you have even the slightest doubt, consult your broker- or bring in a second agent. In most cases you will do just fine. But ultimately, when all is said and done- you want both parties to feel they had the best possible experience, representation and outcome.
As it is, we are in the middle in all transactions. Being in the double middle has both challenges and rewards. Be sure both parties have a clear idea of what dual agency is. As the mother of two sets of twins (now 21 and 13) I certainly seem to be a good negotiator. Seeing double, taking or not taking sides, playing fair, empathy...
Here are a few suggestions when choosing dual agency:

• Give them a clear choice up front for individual representation (my own suggestion) If they are comfortable with dual agency-
  
• Get EVERYTHING in WRITING...every small detail
  
• DISCLOSE, DISCLOSE, DISCLOSE
• Communicate OFTEN with both parties
  
• ASK if there are any concerns that have not been addressed
• After the deal, follow up with both parties and ask how things are going

Most people are wonderful and quite reasonable. But with the extra stress on people when they are buying and selling real estate, stay calm, cool, and professional. Be the glue, be the anchor, be the solution.