What does actually "caring" about someone look like?

What on earth does that mean?

In order for you to feel a realtor actually “cares" about you, you typically need to feel it from the heart. “I can tell that he or she is perfect for us” or “man, he/she really listened to us” or “I just know he/she is honest and works hard” are lines you will hear from time to time. But for someone to demonstrate he actually really cares about you a lot more needs to happen. Here are few things I think are key for a realtor to demonstrate and for you to “feel” after you meet with your potential realtor for the first time.
 

Empathy

Having empathy means having the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand what that person is feeling. No matter the circumstances (first time buyer, investor, downsizer, re-locator) a real estate transaction is a big deal and it’s always personal. Whether you have to deliver bad news or you feel like a client is being a pest, take a step back and put yourself in their shoes. Empathy not only helps me relate to my clients, but feeling empathetic also helps me guide my ability to communicate, problem-solve, react and at the very least make the customer feel understood.
 

Engaged & responsive:

My clients expect immediate follow up. In real estate, you aren’t treated like an organization with business hours – you will get calls and emails after hours and on weekends.
The key isn’t necessarily being available to answer emails at 1am (work/life balance is a great topic for another day). Instead, the key is reacting in a timely manner - and if I don’t have all the answers I am careful to not leave your hanging. I’ll keep you updated and try to give you accurate timeframes whenever possible.  
 

Communication.

Good, clear communication is highly underrated in a high speed world of “lol” and “omg”. How you communicate and how well you communicate will leave a strong impression on a client. Taking time to construct a thoughtful, well-written email or calling instead of texting for more important discussions lets you know that with me you are in good hands. Interested in finding a condo in the GTA? Getting an idea of what it would take to sell your GTA home and move to more affordable area like Newmarket or Barrie? Let’s grab a coffee and I’ll provide you with those answers.
 

The extra mile.

By giving my clients a “wow” moment whenever possible – and keeping in mind that wow moments don’t have to be complicated. They can be as simple as providing additional information that was not requested. Think beyond the stated question and seek the implied follow up question - so when a client asks “what are the maintenance fees at this condo?” I don’t just provide the maintenance fees for that one unit. I'll follow up with more information – maybe some comparable condos where maintenance fees are lower and ask questions about what amenities are important so you can help guide their search.
 

Show your appreciation:

I understand I am nothing without my clients so I’m sure to show how much I care. I make sure you feel appreciated for choosing to work with me. Many agents do this with a closing gift (already a great concept), but rather than going the generic route, choose something meaningful. Currently my referral program seems to be working well…ask me today by texting me at (416) 666-3395 Insta DM or email jonathan@iesalnieks.ca to find out more…I think you will be blown away…hint: think hot sand in your feet down south.
There are countless ways to make people feel special but these small acts of kindness can go a long way in building personal connections with my clients.

Empathy may sound easy, but if you are having a bad day it can be difficult to see someone else’s perspective. It’s easy to have a great idea for a closing gift but it takes effort to make the purchase. Real estate is all about relationships and the strongest relationships take effort. I’m down for the task. Interested in getting more information on buying, selling or investing? Contact me today at (416) 666-3395