I get by with a little help from my friends

Make sure you include all decision makers.

They are not words you want to hear–at least not when you thought it was time to write up an offer. But when buyers say they want to check with Mom and Dad or grandparents or other relatives or friends first, it’s often because the buyers are receiving a gift from that other person to help them afford the house. If that party hasn’t been involved from the beginning, they are working with incomplete information. You may find yourself "selling" your abilities again and educating these additional decision makers about the market. Had they already visited the other 23 properties–including the one with the sloping foundation and the one next to the frat house–they might see the buyers’ decision in a different light.

To stop this situation before it ever occurs, you can ask your buyer clients early on if there’s anyone who will be helping them pay for the house or otherwise assisting them with the decision. If yes, do what you can to include those people from the start. No doubt it will create some extra
coordination early on, but it will be worth it when everyone involved is on the same page regarding a buying decision.

Illustration © Eyewire.

Buyers & sellers, visit www.texasrealestate.com.
REALTORS®, visit www.texasrealtors.com.