Open Inspections: Biggest Mistakes Agents Make!

Open inspections are "show time" for real estate agents, where first impressions are crucial. As a potential buyer or seller, knowing what to look for in an agent during these inspections can help you gauge their professionalism and dedication. Here are some of the biggest mistakes agents make and why they matter to you:

Being on A Phone Call
One of the most glaring mistakes is seeing an agent on their phone during an inspection. This not only looks unprofessional but also shows a lack of interest in the attendees. A good agent should be engaging with visitors, ready to answer questions and provide information about the property.

Not Taking Names and Numbers
A diligent agent will collect contact information from every attendee. This allows them to follow up, provide additional details, and gauge interest levels. If an agent isn't doing this, it’s a sign they may be missing out on potential offers and feedback, which could impact a property’s sale or your search for a new home.

Not Having a Helper for Busy Inspections
During busy inspections, having an assistant or colleague helps ensure all visitors are attended to promptly. If an agent is trying to manage a crowd alone and appears overwhelmed, it reflects poorly on their organisational skills and professionalism. An understaffed inspection can lead to unanswered questions and a poor overall experience.

Lack of Preparation
An open inspection is a crucial time for an agent to demonstrate their competence. If the agent arrives unprepared, with the property not presentable or missing key materials like brochures, it shows a lack of attention to detail. This can be a red flag that they might not be thorough in other aspects of their job.

Poor Communication
Effective communication is key to a successful open inspection. Agents should greet attendees warmly, provide a brief overview of the property, and be available to answer any questions. An agent who is disengaged or uncommunicative can leave a negative impression, potentially deterring interested buyers.

Open inspections are a vital opportunity for agents to showcase their professionalism. If they can't be bothered to put in the effort during this critical time, it's unlikely they will put in much effort at other times either. Paying attention to these red flags can help you choose an agent who will work diligently on your behalf.