How long for a Realtor response?
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Dear Phyllis,
Typically, how long is a Realtor’s response? I am a first-time buyer and just starting to look online and email different Realtors for more information. I have been to a few open houses,. However, I now feel it’s important for me to start looking at homes with a Realtor. After checking different Realtors’ websites and reviews, I finally found one I thought would be a good fit. I emailed him with some addresses of homes I wanted to see – giving him several days’ notice. By the time he got back to me two and a half days later, one of the homes was in escrow, and another had 11 offers. Needless to say I am disappointed. 1st Time Buyer
Dear 1st Timer,
This Realtor’s response time is unacceptable. When you find a home and your agent submits an offer, you will likely compete against other buyers. In this situation, if the listing agent contacts your agent with a question and your agent takes days to respond, the listing agent will likely move on to a more responsive agent and buyer.
You did well to give the Realtor several days’ notice. When I receive a call about a property, I immediately contact the listing agent by phone, text, and email to confirm the listing’s status, check whether the seller has accepted offers, and determine how many offers exist. The listing agent may respond quickly—or not, since not all Realtors operate at the same level of responsiveness.
I suggest you reconsider how you are selecting a Realtor to hire. You mentioned that you have gone to open houses; often buyers visit open houses and meet a real estate agent they click with. Of course, you can also search online; I have had buyers find me online and contact me for an in-person interview. If you are comfortable searching online for your Realtor, set up a ten–fifteen–minute no–obligation meeting. Ask them how long it takes to get back to you. Just as important as response time, is: do you feel comfortable working with them?
I am certain you will easily find a real estate agent that you will enjoy working with and who responds to your queries quickly.
