TECHNOLOGY NEVER REPLACES HUMAN CONTACT

While new technology has provided relief to many Realtors by increasing their efficiency, we must be careful not to allow certain tech tools to replace personal, hands-on business practices. Clients look for the highest quality, most competent personal customer service and trusted advice available. Below are some areas where relying solely upon technology may not lead to providing the best customer service and, in fact, may hurt client relationships.

Touring Properties – At Weir Manuel Realtors (WMR) agents are encouraged to personally tour all available inventory on a weekly basis. We believe this practice assures competent market knowledge that is superior to the competition. Simply relying on MLS data and online descriptions do not provide knowledge that is as rich as an onsite inspection.

MLS Automated Prospecting – Though a helpful tool assuring real time notice of newly listed properties to your clients, WMR agents are also encouraged to make themselves aware of new listings via multiple daily reviews of all incoming inventory. Often, the right property slips through the cracks of an automated update due to strict search criteria. For example, if you have a buyer looking between $700,000 and $900,000 in a particular neighborhood and a new listing comes to market aggressively priced at $675,000, the client would not be made aware of it without personal agent intervention.

Showing Feedback – Many agents rely solely on automated agent feedback requests and provide showing feedback only via email. Though this method may be more convenient, it does not provide the best environment for agent-to-agent communication. We have learned from experience that a personal conversation may provide more useful feedback for sellers. Moreover, good agents communicating in this way have been known to create transactions that would not have otherwise occurred. Personal communication also allows agents to build relationships with each other, which is key to successful future dealings.

In summary, the right technology tools can lead to tremendous time savings and increased efficiency. They should not be used out of blind convenience, however. When considering the use of a new technology, consider its full impact on your relationships with your clients, your fellow Realtors and your own ability to improve your skill and market knowledge.