BIC TIP #1243: Make Friends at the Office
Summer is here. It is beach time, mountain time, kids-out-of-school time. But if you are a real estate agent, you never fully get to shut off. Stephen Long’s reminder: if you plan to be out of pocket, make sure someone is covering for you, and pay special attention to appraiser communication.
Your Deals Do Not Take Vacation
Closings, inspections, repair negotiations, and lender questions do not pause just because you are on a beach chair. If you are unreachable for a week, your clients could be left hanging at the worst possible moment.
That is why it pays to make friends at the office. A trusted colleague who can answer the phone, open a door, or track you down when something important happens is worth their weight in gold.
Listing Agents, Watch for the Appraiser
Stephen points out that this is becoming even more important with the new appraisal changes. Appraisers may be reaching out to the listing agent for more information about the property.
If the appraiser cannot get what they need, it could hold up the appraisal, and that could hold up closing. Listing agents will need to be a little more responsive to appraisers than some may be used to, and that responsiveness has to continue while you are away.
Build Your Coverage Plan Before You Pack
Before you leave, pick your backup and brief them on each active file. Let your clients know who to contact while you are gone. Make sure your coverage person has what they need to answer basic questions or reach you quickly.
Check with your broker-in-charge about how your firm handles coverage between agents, especially if the person covering for you will be doing anything that requires a license. A clear handoff protects you, your clients, and your colleague.
The Practical Takeaway
Enjoy your summer, but do not disappear. Arrange coverage before you go, give your backup what they need, and make sure appraisers and other parties can reach someone who can help. A little planning keeps your closings on track while you recharge.
This BIC Tip is general real estate education for licensees and consumers, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Rules and forms change, so verify current NCREC rules, MLS rules, and standard forms, and consult a North Carolina attorney or qualified professional about your specific situation. See Disclaimers & Disclosures.
Mortgage topics are discussed for general education only and are not a commitment to lend or an offer of credit. Stephen Long, NMLS #2795861, Keller Home Loans, a division of Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, Inc., NMLS ID 1025894. Equal Housing Opportunity.
