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Val Evans

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Rainer
252,600
Macy Babb ... North Georgia Realtor
Re/Max Around Atlanta Realtor - 404-234-6166 - Cartersville, GA
Realtor, SFR, HUD/REO Certified

I think this "sphere" is the best to get referrals from, but that this "sphere" also expects "too much for too little" at times, and boundaries have to be made clear in advance

Nov 23, 2015 09:52 PM
Rainmaker
1,683,912
Larry Johnston
Broker, Friends & Neighbors Real Estate and Elkhart County Subdivisions, LLC - Elkhart, IN
Broker,Friends & Neighbors Real Estate, Elkhart,IN

Good question!  I have done both and also made a lot of new friends that were clients a second time. Notice our Business Name!

Nov 23, 2015 11:29 AM
Rainmaker
3,986,258
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

I work with all reltives and friends...Everyone knows that it is a business deal fron the start

Nov 23, 2015 07:48 AM
Ambassador
1,452,769
Susan Emo
Sotheby's International Realty Canada - Brokerage - Kingston, ON
Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area

I love the friends of my friends and family

Nov 23, 2015 04:55 AM
Rainmaker
115,432
Jeanne Feenick
NextHome Premier - Basking Ridge, NJ
The Agent you choose REALLY does make a difference

When I first started in this business I felt very deflated if I saw or heard of a friend or family member buying or selling without engaging me.  But overtime I have come to believe it is for the best.  In a good business relationship both parties need to be able to have/receive tough conversations. The probability of hard feelings if you do the right thing is very high with friends and family.

 

Nov 23, 2015 09:31 PM
Rainmaker
750,057
Rob D. Shepherd
RETIRED - Florence, OR
RETIRED

I sold a home to a family member that refused to get an inspection, I have been paying for that ever since.

Nov 23, 2015 09:27 PM
Rainer
80,653
Linda Guess
Keller Williams Tri-Lakes Branson, MO - Branson, MO
Branson area real estate sales.

I will work with friends and family anytime.  I feel confident I will give them excellent service.  i will make every effort to help them make good choices.  If they are overpaying for a home they want I will let them know,etc.  But the decision is theirs.  I give them options of excellent lenders, title officers, and home inspecters.  I keep them informed every step of the way.  Let them know if you expect any problems ahead of time so they are not shocked.  Then you hope everything goes as planned.

Nov 23, 2015 08:43 PM
Rainer
150,416
Michael Thacker - Re/Max Real Estate Center - Louisville
Re/Max Real Estate Center - The Thacker Group - Louisville, KY
Your best friend who just happens to be a Realtor

Friends and family still know others who they can refer you to.

Nov 23, 2015 07:40 AM
Rainer
42,670
Fred Hafdelin
Weichert Realtors - Mountain Lakes, NJ

For the same reasons that you shouldn't sell a car to a good friend or relative. Something you may have little if any control over could go wrong and you will be expected to make it right. You will be caught between a rock and a hard place. Either pay to remedy the problem/issue or have a very unpleasant situation with a relative or friend.

 

Nov 23, 2015 04:11 AM
Ambassador
6,393,154
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

Friends and family are great when you are first starting out, but after a while most learn that it is better to work outside of this group.

Nov 23, 2015 03:32 AM
Rainer
392,768
Anna Hatridge
R Gilliam Real Estate LLC - Farmington, MO
Missouri Realtor with R Gilliam Real Estate LLC

It is one thing for family and friends to recommend you and recognize your skills and talents and then there is the fact that many of them do not want you to know about their finances.  

I have no problem working with family and friends; just treat them the same as you treat everyone else.  

Nov 24, 2015 08:16 PM
Rainmaker
316,098
Robert Smith
Preview Properties, PC - http://www.RealEstateMich.com - Brighton, MI
SRES, Search for Homes Brighton-Howell-SE Michigan

Could be for referrals to their friends.  Like my regular business, it's a person by person choice.  

Nov 24, 2015 07:23 PM
Rainer
428,933
Chris Lima
Turtle Reef Realty - Port St Lucie, FL
Local or Global-Allow me to open doors for you.

I really don't have an issue working with friends, family and friends of family and friends. I am not sure that I was ever told never to do business with friends and family.  I was told that depending on your relationship, a bit of caution should be used due to the fact that this is a business deal.

Nov 23, 2015 09:01 PM
Rainmaker
3,271,433
Laura Cerrano
Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island - Locust Valley, NY
Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher

It really depends on your dynamic between each other. To each their own and it's a simple as that.

Nov 23, 2015 03:31 PM
Ambassador
5,048,983
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

Family is not in my SOI but I helped my daughter buy a place and will help her sell it, but I certainly tap into family for potential referrals. Plenty of friends are in that SOI list. Some I have worked with, others have referred business.  I would not say that, as a group, I would not work with friends - really depends on the situation. 

Nov 23, 2015 12:04 PM
Rainmaker
1,577,943
Karen Fiddler, Broker/Owner
Karen Parsons-Fiddler, Broker 949-510-2395 - Mission Viejo, CA
Orange County & Lake Arrowhead, CA (949)510-2395

Too much opportuntity for hard feelings. 

Nov 23, 2015 10:07 AM
Rainmaker
1,052,196
Candice A. Donofrio
Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker - Fort Mohave, AZ
928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text

IDEALLY, friends/family in your SOI will send prospects that are a little more 'arm's length'. But unless the dynamic really warrants it, seasoned brokers recommend referring out family and friends by no accident.

Nov 23, 2015 04:47 AM
Rainmaker
282,018
Nancy Robinson Ranked #6 in MI
Century 21 Town and Country - Royal Oak, MI
#11 Century21 Realtor in the US, #16 in the World

IF you don't know what you are doing  don't do it.  I don't think ts a good practice to cut your teeth in Real estate on your loved ones! But after you become experienced no one else in the world can do as good a job.

Nov 24, 2015 10:03 AM
Rainmaker
816,095
Paul McFadden
Responsive Pest Control - Seattle, WA
Pest Control, Seattle, WA.

Mine did and I never expected to do business with either. But it happened anyway and it was a nice surprise!

Nov 24, 2015 07:32 AM
Rainmaker
2,194,668
Elizabeth Weintraub Sacramento Broker
Elizabeth Anne Weintraub, Broker - Sacramento, CA
Put 40 years of experience to work for you

The only time I tell a seller that she should not work with a family member is when that family member is not me. LOL. Other than that, I would not work with a family member or friend if I felt they would not listen to me, but I haven't really had that issue because I don't have any friends or family who need my help. They are all people I don't know.

Nov 24, 2015 04:19 AM
Rainmaker
4,572,117
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

I've personally never understood this concept -- why not do business with family and friends?  

Nov 24, 2015 03:45 AM
Rainmaker
4,319,419
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Andover, MA
Andover, MA: Andover Luxury Homes For Sale

Val Evans I have never understood that concept, either!

Working by referrals, thanks to Buffini & Company - I love to work with friends and family.

Life is lot simpler when we set the expectations right - and that's what one should do while working with friends and family.

Nov 24, 2015 02:15 AM
Rainmaker
1,502,998
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

I have had four friends list, buy or ask me for a listing appointment.  I do business with friends and family.  Sometimes it doesn't always work out and it can be hard for the client to separate the friend from the professional, especially when it is news they don't like.

 

Most realtors and realtor coaches I've been around have always said friends and family are a gold mine.  I have one friend who is my biggest cheerleader telling everyone (even other realtors) how awesome I am!  I love it.  Even if you choose not to do their transactions, they can refer you to others.

Nov 23, 2015 03:57 PM
Rainer
140,560
Richard L. McKinney P.A.
Atlantic Shores Realty Expertise - Port St Lucie, FL
For Results that MOVE you on the Treasure Coast!

I don't remember hearing any fellow Realtors saying that.

I personally prospect all family and friends that I know and highly recommend other agents do the same. 

Nov 23, 2015 09:21 AM
Rainmaker
2,817,671
Debbie Gartner
The Flooring Girl - White Plains, NY
The Flooring Girl & Blog Stylist -Dynamo Marketers

While I can respect people for choosing to or not to work w/ friends or family, the important thing is that people can/should recommend you to their friends/family.  So, I don't see a contradiction at all.

Nov 23, 2015 08:38 AM
Rainmaker
1,466,207
Michael Setunsky
Woodbridge, VA
Your Commercial Real Estate Link to Northern VA

Val Evans No problem here working with family and friends.

Nov 23, 2015 05:48 AM
Rainmaker
5,772,575
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Good question, Val.  

We loved our friends and family, and sold and leased several properties that way.  The only listing we did not take  was way out of our geographical range and we would have been doing a disservice to our friend by taking the listing.  A

Nov 23, 2015 05:09 AM
Rainmaker
4,800,082
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

I'm not aware that many Realtors are saying this, Val.  

Nov 23, 2015 04:11 AM
Rainmaker
805,799
Steve Higgins
RE/MAX Kelowna - Kelowna, BC

I have no problem working with family and friends. So far so good.

Nov 25, 2015 12:19 PM
Rainmaker
440,656
Shirley Coomer
Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living - Phoenix, AZ
Realtor, Keller Williams Realty, Phoenix Az

I think those of us who have done business with friends and families know there are some friends and family we don't want to do business with.  Some do expect reduced fees or other consideration.  I have  worked with many friends and they continue to be friends.  Treat friends like you would any other client,  communicating professionally throughout the transaction.

Nov 24, 2015 09:37 PM
Rainmaker
1,844,271
Lyn Sims
Schaumburg, IL
Real Estate Broker Retired

It's best for your sanity. I just had a deal from hell that was guess what - family!

Nov 24, 2015 02:48 AM
Rainmaker
5,104,931
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Realtor

I don't have issues working with friends and family. I think many agents worry that these people expect special considertion on their fees.

Nov 23, 2015 10:03 PM
Rainer
83,481
Amy Gutschow
RE/MAX - Sheboygan, WI
Professional Real Estate

I have no idea why they say that.  I work with friends and family all the time.  It would be horrible if they used someone else.  Maybe if your a horrible lazy realtor you don't want to see the people you treated poorly all the time in social situations?  lol

Nov 23, 2015 10:01 PM
Rainmaker
4,434,127
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

This is a good question.

Nov 23, 2015 09:15 PM
Rainmaker
713,282
Sharon Kowitz
CRS-SRES-ABR-GRI-E-Pro-CREN ~ COMPASS RE - Cary, NC
Cary, NC Relocation Specialist ~ Buying or Selling

I listed my daughters town house after she finished grad school. I think the reality of what I do was eye opening for her ~ However, she had high expectations for a quick sale. ~ Sold in 2 weeks! 

Nov 23, 2015 08:29 PM
Rainmaker
2,759,812
TeamCHI - Complete Home Inspections, Inc.
Complete Home Inspections, Inc. - Brentwood, TN
Home Inspectons - Nashville, TN area - 615.661.029

 Good Tuesday morning Val. Real estate is a very competitive business. Most real estate agents don't want the hard feelings if something goes bad.

Nov 23, 2015 05:20 PM
Rainer
86,514
Mike Kelly,CRS,CIPS
The MJKelly Team - Santa Rosa, CA
"One of Sonoma County's Natural Resources"

You need to capitalize "Realtor" please! What Realtors are you speaking to? I tell all new agents, before they get their license, to put together your "Met" list and especially those who love you and want to become a raving fan! So are NONE of your clients your friends? I've been doing this since 1978 and have many, many clients I refer to as friend. Family? I've got 5 brothers and nieces/nephews galore. I hope they would use me as Im a consumate professional and know my stuff. If I where you I'd switch my "sand-box" and start working with Realtors who know how to generate leads. So call your Mother or Dad today and say, "I love you Mom--what are your plans for real estate this year?"

Nov 23, 2015 11:20 AM
Rainmaker
1,725,996
Sandy Padula & Norm Padula, JD, GRI
HomeSmart Realty West & Florida Realty Investments - , CA
Presence, Persistence & Perseverance

I do not consider family as being within my SoI.

Nov 23, 2015 07:43 AM
Rainmaker
2,486,205
Captain Wayne - Rowlett Real Estate School
Rowlett Real Estate School - Panama City, FL
Rowlett Real Estate School / Owner and Instructor

It is good to start with.. that's it.

Nov 23, 2015 06:35 AM
Ambassador
2,178,553
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

I know many do NOT work with family and friends.  I never followed that line of thinking.  I knew I could handle their needs better than anyone else so I went for it.  Never had a problem... and was never asked for a discount on my commission.  

Nov 23, 2015 04:09 AM
Rainmaker
1,622,432
Inna Ivchenko
Barcode Properties - Encino, CA
Realtor® • GRI • HAFA • PSC Calabasas CA

Yes, they do recommend that. 

Money break relationships, it is true. But making sure you handle a transaction correctly and openly, kindly and patiently will make those relationships even stronger. 

 

Nov 23, 2015 04:09 AM
Rainmaker
443,220
Cindy Davis
SD Home Source Realty - San Diego, CA

Despite being advised to wok my sphere of influence, I have chosen to NOT work with family and friends. Those relationships are too important to add in a real estate transaction.

Nov 23, 2015 04:03 AM
Rainmaker
5,583,278
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

I tap into that sphere to get new business from folks they know.... I never listed a home owned by a family member or very close friend.... I handed it to my best team member to handle and I would have my referral fee taken off the commission and left in the proceeds........ 

Nov 23, 2015 03:33 AM
Rainmaker
533,993
Robert Havana
Park and Protect- Alberta Real Estate License Parking - Calgary, AB
Alberta Real Estate License Parking

the only problem dealing with family and friends is that when business mixes with family they often dont get treated as independantly as they should

May 03, 2016 04:49 PM
Rainmaker
22,353
Karen T Brown
HomeBased Realty - Lancaster, CA

I have had a buyer that was a close friend, it did take me to have that heart to heart with her and to say, "I'm no longer going to treat you as a friend and treat you as a client."  No, that doesn't mean I treated her less professional, but it meant if I ask you to do something, I expect you to do it and no you don't get to call me at 2 am.  Quite the contrary, it meant I would treat her more professional than before. Yes, I knew it was a risk to our friendship, but if I didn't it was a risk to my reputation and my sanity.  We will be closing escrow soon.

Dec 29, 2015 12:03 AM
Rainer
243,887
Jaretta Buckholtz
Pearson Smith Realty, LLC - Manassas, VA
Passionate-Professional-Patient

I have not read anyone else's answer yet, but I would imagine that other realtors are against working with family and friends because the personal connection can cause some continued rift if things go sour.  Your SOI should remain your family and friends because they should be telling their friends what a great realtor you are.  The connection there may not be so close, giving you a great word of mouth steady stream of work.

Dec 05, 2015 07:10 PM
Rainer
75,959
Jillian La Rocque
St Thomas, VI

I think the idea is to get business from them but do not do business with them.

Dec 03, 2015 11:22 PM
Rainmaker
536,104
Kate Elim
Dockside Realty - Spotsylvania, VA
Realtor 540-226-1964, Selling Homes & Land a

Hi Val...Have never suggested not to work with friends and family as I have done it numerous times. One of my sons has purchased two homes through me and my other son has purchased two plus provided me with three referrals on homes he purchased out of state. Multiple friends have listed their homes with me. I love working with friends and family. If it works for you be happy and keep doing it.

Dec 01, 2015 08:26 AM
Ambassador
3,854,886
Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400
HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400 - Pikesville, MD
Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome

If you are the best and most qualified REALTOR(r) why wouldn't you want to have the best person for your friends and family?

Nov 30, 2015 12:05 AM
Rainmaker
196,080
Jill Moog
Coast & Country Homes and Estates, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
Carlsbad, CA Homes for Sale

I have always enjoyed working with my family and friends. It turns out well because I work really hard to get them what they want.

Many of my client relationships turn into lasting friendships too.

However, recently I was working with an acquaintance whom I felt took advantage of me. I let it happen but learned an important lesson about setting expectations up front.

Nov 29, 2015 03:13 AM
Ambassador
2,061,750
Alan May
Jameson Sotheby's International Realty - Evanston, IL
Home is where the hearth is.

I don't know "so many Realtors" who recommend not doing business with family & friends.

Real estate is one of those businesses that segues nicely into working with family and friends.  They are, indeed, among your S.O.I. and are you first line in recommending you.

Nov 28, 2015 11:31 PM
Rainer
7,267
Tammy Inglis
Liberty Way Realty - Lake Orion, MI
Real estate agent for Michigan

I am very new at real estate but my first 3 deals were with family and it went great.

 

Nov 27, 2015 01:50 PM
Ambassador
3,727,873
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@Properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

If you're going to do business with family and friends, you'd better be very competent!

Nov 27, 2015 09:20 AM
Rainmaker
1,374,323
Joyce Marsh
Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC - Daytona Beach, FL
Joyce Marsh Homes

I recommend that family members hire the agent they feel most comfortable with and who they feel can do the best job for them. If that's me then I will work tirelessly to make things happen. If it's not me then no hard feelings and I wish them luck. 

Nov 27, 2015 12:21 AM
Rainmaker
900,128
Olga Simoncelli
Veritas Prime, LLC dba Veritas Prime Real Estate - New Fairfield, CT
CONSULTANT, Real Estate Services & Risk Management

Family and friends are better as referral partners, not always as clients.

Nov 25, 2015 03:03 AM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

For the same reason you do not LEND money to a friend you want to keep.

When money is involved the dynamics change.

Indentured and expectation distress the bound formerly based on venerability and trust. 

The decision is...."are they keepers?"

Nov 25, 2015 12:57 AM