I recently had an opportunity to try to find a stellar REALTOR® for some relatives who are thinking of relocating to another state. My relatives understand how referrals work and were only too happy to have me screen people and provide someone who would provide superior service.
So I began the process that I have done so many times–searching online for professionals who will take the same degree of interest as I would, talking to those whose web presence gives me an idea of how they work, and asking others in my networks for suggestions. Each client is different and I try to find what I think is a match for them (an inexact science to be sure, but I have good intuitive skills!).
I had narrowed down my search to a few people and shared the information with my relatives. One of the people I chose seemed to match their style–both were fairly analytical, detail-oriented, and number-crunchers. However, when I called the agent and told him that I would like to refer someone to him, he seemed to be surprised. He said he doesn’t do referrals! I was a little stunned, to say the least, so I asked him why he doesn’t. He told me that he can’t afford to give up any type of referral fee so he just doesn’t do them.
It’s his choice, I suppose, but why would anyone turn down a referral? Maybe he is too busy and prefers to work only with his own clients, but I didn’t sense that. I think he is not busy enough and doesn’t understand how vital referrals are to business, even if you have to give up a small part of your commission.
Why I Love Referring People to Others
When I give someone a referral, it says that I trust that the person will do as thorough a job as I would. I don’t pick names out of a hat. I research who they are, what markets they work in, what type of personality they have, how conscientious they are, etc. Then I talk to them over the phone to pick up more cues. I don’t work for free; I earn a referral fee. Most of the time, the referral works out great and it beats taking chances with unknown agents.
Why I Love Getting Referrals
When I get a referral from someone, it is (to me) the greatest compliment anyone can give me. It says that they trust that I will do a good job for them; I don’t take that lightly. I gladly pay a referral fee because without the referral, I wouldn’t have that business.
So when someone tells me that they don’t do referrals, I say that’s unfortunate–for them. I love giving referrals and I love getting referrals.
If you are considering moving to the sunny south for your retirement years or are just thinking of exploring homes for sale in another state or area, let me know. I will work hard to find you an agent who will do as good a job as I would.
And if you are thinking about moving into the central Connecticut area or if you know someone who is, give me a call! I will take very good care of them.
Peggy Chirico, REALTOR®
Serving the Greater Hartford Area
Prudential Connecticut Realty
If you are buying or selling a home in Hartford County or Tolland County, please call me at 860-748-8900, , or use the Contact Request Form. I would be happy to help you with your home search or answer any of your real estate questions.
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