Procuring cause & why I have to work with strangers!
January 7, 2010
The simple fact is that as a real estate agent, I have to work with strangers because strangers call me. Strangers accept the fact that I have a duty to help them, to look out for their best interests, and quite simply, they understand that it is my job.
I prefer to work with my friends, family, and friends of friends. A lot of times though, friends work under the assumption that they are doing me a favor by “not wasting my time.” Which drives me batty boys and girls. Its my job. So you aren’t “bothering me” by giving me a call and asking to see a house you drove by. But, I can’t help unless you let me know – either by calling me, shooting me an email, or even texting! Tell me what you are looking for. I would love to act as your buyer’s agent. See this link about how as a Buyer’s Agent I can help you.
Please, please, please call me if you are interested in seeing a home. You aren’t bothering me. This is my job. 
If you do speak to the listing agent, immediately let them know that I am representing you. This is what is known as “procuring cause”. If you let the other agent know IMMEDIATELY that I am working with you – I will be able to represent your interests in the negotiations in the purchase of the home. If you don’t let the other agent know right at the start that you are working with me, then the other agent that is representing the seller, has procuring cause for the transaction with you, and I can’t represent your best interests (you will have essentially locked me out from being able to help you).
As a buyer’s agent, my compensation is paid by the seller. It doesn’t cost you ANYTHING to let me look out for your best interests and negotiate on your behalf.
The procuring situation has occured for me several times this past year. A few examples are:
1) A relative looked at a piece of property and asked me to write the contract after they had already viewed the property with the listing agent. Made no mention of me during their two appointments to see the property. In this instance the listing agent has procuring cause, but agreed to let me write the contract if I would pay her a referral fee from my part of the commission.
2) An acquaintance listed her home with another company. Then called me for advice after relations with her current agent went sour.
3) I helped a friend and his wife with some data from the PVA database so they could appeal their tax bill, which they won. They are now in the process of purchasing a home without buyer’s representation.
The moral of the story:
1. If you are interested in buying or selling a home, CALL ME! I’m glad to help and you aren’t bothering me.
2. If you do speak to the listing agent, IMMEDIATELY let them know you are working with me.
To everyone who made 2009 a great year, THANK YOU! I’m sure I’ll forget someone, but those of you that are likely to read this – thanks Allison and Al, Jessica, Mikey, Jess and Chris, Amy and Matt, Kelly — here is to 2010 being even better!