I am always shocked when I have prospective buyers ask me for the combination lockbox codes over the
phone, no matter how many times I hear it. I have heard variations like "I called (REO listing agent) and he gave me the codes on the homes I wanted to see. Why won't you?" "My agent in (another county) just gave me the codes and told me to let her know if I liked any." I am appalled that buyers get angry when I explain that is is not how it's done.
There have been a few Posts and discussions by agents that I have followed about the preference for Electronic lockboxes or coded lockboxes. On some REO listings, the lockbox is already there because the servicing company put it there before I listed it. In other circumstances, when the owner of a vacant house wants vendors to have access for paint, carpet or other repairs, I use a combo lockbox to afford them access. Otherwise, I use electronic lockboxes for security reasons as well as accountability.
Another variation of this that I find appalling is that two Property Management firms in my market give out keys to prospective tenants and allow the prospects to go view and inspect the homes without an agent accompanying them. I know that the owners do not know that this because when they find out, they fire the firm and hire my Property Management firm. The owners find out because their former neighbors who are watching out for the home tell them they find people in the houses with a set of keys given at the office.
What kind of real estate service is this? What kind of representation is this? Am I alone in thinking that we should be accompanying our buyer and tenant prospects to view listings?
Keller Williams Realty Elite Partners
* 352-650-1029 *
Serving Florida’s Nature Coast * Hernando, Pasco & Citrus Counties
