Category Archives: Misc. Real Estate

So I went to required training today at the Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors building over in Leawood, Kansas.  It was the 4 hour required CORE class for both Kansas and Missouri.  I talked to, and listened in on, quite a few real estate agents.  And I have to say that I am baffeled at how professional some agents are and how unprofessional others are. 

Let me be clear, there are a lot of really good real estate agents.  But there are also real estate agents that no matter how many times you explain something, or however slowly you speak, they just don’t get it.  Should these individuals be representing your largest asset? 

I beg you, please, interview a couple to three agents before hiring someone.  You don’ t have to like them.  But you have to know they are competent and professional.  After speaking to them for about 15 minutes you should be able to tell if they qualify.  🙂

One of my favorite things about the real estate business is working with friends, family member and advisors of my clients.  They all like to say “Here is what I would do regarding…”

And I understand my position.  I am not your brother, uncle, dad, son, etc.  I’m just a guy who even in his worst year, worst, helped 17 people buy and/or sell a house.  I’m just a guy who even though I do this “part time” sold $3,000,000 worth of real estate last year.  I’m just a guy who has helped over 225 people buy or sell a house in the 9 years I have been doing this. 

So even though my advice is opposite the advice of your advisors who have been involved in maybe  8-10 sales over their lifetime I know who you are going to listen to.  I just have to understand and work with that. 

NOTE:  If you think I’m talking about you, you may be right.  On the other hand, this happens in nearly EVERY transaction.  So don’t take it personally.  It’s just the way it is.  🙂  And hey, I know everyone means well.  That’s why they are trying to help.

So the State of Missouri has told our broker that an audit is coming our way within the next 30 days and the admin people of our office are freaking out.  Never mind that we have a paper policewoman who won’t let us have our checks until all the boxes are checked and signatures initialed and asses are kissed.  (Sorry, this whole thing pisses me off.)

My feelings are this on audits;

1. They are good in that the fear of an audit makes brokers hire people to make sure everything is done by the book.
2. They are bad in that the auditor comes in and will not leave until they find something, no matter how innocuous or ridiculous, in which they can draw a fine from.
3. Missing a check box or not filling in a warranty line is hardly the same as “fraud.”  But by God, they will fine you and the broker $150 each if you miss it.
4. What they are really looking for, and let’s call this out, are Kansas agents selling Missouri homes and not paying Missouri state taxes.

I try to operate my business with the utmost integrity.  I fight for the benefit of my clients.  But if I miss a box I’m more likely to be fined than if I help commit the fraud that has been so rampant. 

Oh, well.  Like the neighborhood merchants who have to pay tribute to the mob it’s just the cost of doing business.  I know I’ll be a target because I sell so many properties in Missouri.  I’ll let you know how it turns out in a month or so.