We Never Close
We never close.
That’s the slogan imprinted on a knockoff vintage-auto-shop clock hanging over the workbench in our basement.
It’s apt for my work as a Realtor. I’m not complaining when I say that I have to be available 24/7. Doctors, lawyers, accountants, civil service workers, auto mechanics and contractors can stick to banker hours of Monday to Friday 9 to 5, but I can’t.
There are compensating factors – like more flexible hours and vacations. I don’t mind enjoy the seamlessness between work and leisure, and I appreciate being needed. It’s fulfilling to be able to help.
That willingness to help is not reserved just for active buyers and sellers. You don’t have to be transacting with me to get my full attention. While I may need to prioritize clients in the midst of a purchase, I’m otherwise available to offer counsel and suggest resources for a myriad of needs.
For example, just this week I’ve provided
A referral to an upholsterer
Guidance about renting a home, including referrals to rental agents, plus information about rent control and capital gains tax implications
My two-cents about which floor stain to use in a condo
Two sources for as-built architectural drawings
A suggestion for a kid’s piano teacher
A list of easy-to-reserve restaurants in Hayes Valley
A locksmith referral
Updates about status of Proposition 10, an upcoming California ballot measure
A referral to an agent in southwest Florida
None of these requests were related to an actual sale, and only a couple of them were for past clients.
Just think of me as your real estate concierge (or “life” concierge, for that matter). I’m happy to help!
Photo Credit: Amin Salehi
Cynthia Cummins is the founder of Kindred SF Homes and has been serving homeowners and homebuyers for 3 decades. For information on San Francisco Bay Area real estate visit KindredSFhomes.com.For my writing and mindfulness blog, visit WildHeartWriting.org.
