What NOT to tell a real estate agent

In May 2021 I wrote in The Tawny Frogmouth that buying a home was akin to Married at First Sight dating. With Covid lockdown restrictions it became more like getting married with no sight but that didn’t stop the market from booming at a rate that has caused mixed emotions depending on whether you’re buying or selling. 

If my last article inspired anyone to jump into the housing market, to get “hitched” in the most unromantic way imaginable – via a 25-year mortgage, congratulations! To those who haven’t yet succumbed to the lure of bricks, mortar, stamp duty and unimaginable debt, never fear, as we move on from MAFS and onto Love Island. Think of me as your resident Dr Property. I’m here to prescribe appropriate medication that will assist all prospective suitors tie the knot for a successful, long-lasting, love-filled relationship. 

5 Things You NEVER Tell a Real Estate Agent:

1. Never disclose your total budget. As soon as the agent knows this, chances are they will seduce you into spending every last cent…and then some.
2. Never mention how long you’ve been
   looking. Like dating, it’s ok to be single. Take your time. Assess the market. Just because a friend recently married the dwelling of their dreams, don’t feel the
   urge to abandon your rental comforts for life-long commitments. 
3. Never boast or gloat about bad dates, and don’t let the agent know which properties you’ve come close but just missed out on. This entire discussion will be avoided anyhow if you abide point 1 and never disclose your budget. When you’re looking to buy property, it’s not only ok to have secrets, but also ultimately in your best interests. 
4. Never fall in love too quickly. But, if you do fall head over heels, never let this intel become apparent to the agent. Be mindful too, while first impressions can set your heart aflutter, once the styled furniture are gone, and the sassy kitchen bench is no longer decked out with San Pellegrino bottles, the home of your dreams may swiftly lose its lustre, which leads to point 5.
5. Never commit without going on a second date, even a bad one! This will open your eyes to all the things you didn’t see upon first encounter. A second date, preferably in the harsh light of day, ensures your assessment is grounded in fact. Sometimes this isn’t pretty, but it’s always in your best interests. 

If you think I’m being negative, no way, these are lessons learned from experience and providing many tissues and a shoulder for prospective purchasers to cry on.  There is something positive I encourage you to do as you set about finding and securing your home and it’s this: hire a relationship expert – a buyer’s agent. They’re your best friend when it comes to successfully navigating the property market. 

At times they will encourage you to call before the third day after the date or tell you to pull your head in and that you can do far better. They may serve as a grief counsellor along the way – no need to reach for that chocolate ice cream and spoon. But, when all’s said and done, they are your best asset, ensuring you avoid the traps along the way, while always keeping your eyes on the prize.