But is your job really done?
As you know, repeat and referral clients are a big part of growing a real estate business. Going the extra mile for clients after closing isn’t just a nice thing to do — it’s in your business’s best interest.
So, if you want buyer clients to remember you for years to come and refer you to the people in their lives, don’t just facilitate a successful close; that’s the bare minimum. Instead, show them how much you appreciate their business by ensuring that their moves are as easy as possible.
Help buyers transfer utilities
With everything that goes into moving (especially when coupled with buying a home), it’s easy to overlook important tasks. Transferring utilities is one of them, and forgetting to do it can leave homeowners without gas, electricity or water for a few days along with a fee for getting them turned back on.
Remind your clients to transfer utilities, and provide them with details on how to do it. It won’t cost you a dime, and it’ll take only a few minutes of your time.
Hire someone to make minor repairs
Sellers aren’t always willing to make repairs. It’s also not uncommon for home inspectors to miss issues and leave buyers with unexpected repairs. More likely than not, your buyers will encounter at least a few items that require the attention of a professional within a few months.
If you know a good, affordable handyman, offering to send him over to handle a few minor repairs for your clients is something that new homeowners won’t soon forget.
Prepay for a professional cleaning
Sellers will usually have the home cleaned prior to the buyers moving in. Still, after making a major move, there’s a good chance your buyers’ new home will be in need of an additional cleaning. Save them some time and money by prepaying for a professional cleaning service that can be used at their convenience.
Provide a box of household goods
Buyers often forget to pack things like toilet paper, paper towels and cleaning products, which can leave them in a tough spot come move-in day.
Help your buyers avoid a last-minute run to the store after a long day of moving by ensuring that everything they might need is already there.
Give gift cards to the area’s best restaurants
You’re the local area expert, right? If your buyers are moving to a new area, help them get off to a great start by giving them gift cards to some of the best restaurants in their part of town. It’ll provide your clients with a few easy, delicious meals and help them feel more at home in their new neighborhood.
These simple tips go the extra mile for buyers, and they won’t forget that. They’ll remember you long after the sale and tell all their friends about their positive real estate experience working with you.
BY PAT HIBAN – INMAN NEWS – November 2018
Pat Hiban sold more than 7,000 homes over the course of his 25-year career in real estate. Now, he dedicates his time to helping others succeed as agents and investors. As host of the Real Estate Rockstars Podcast, Pat interviews real estate experts to explore what works in today’s markets. He also founded Rebus University, an online training platform for real estate agents and sales professionals.
