Working with buyers agents

I am very blunt with my buyers about time frames and expectations. I wont let them make the offer unless they "get it" and, of course, a minimum 90 day window works for their situation. If someone only has 60 days to move, I strongly urge them to find another property. Although many properties advertise "quick turnaround", Ive still never gotten a response less than 5 weeks.

The buyers still call me every few days with the "maybe we should..." or "what do you think is happening..." conversation, but I sheild the listing agent from most of it. I ask for a weekly update, even if its "no word"

Listing agents vary on their responses but generally I have found them very helpful. My experience in this market has been that the agents (buyers and sellers agents alike) who have survived are very professional and helpful.

I am finishing a short sale on the buyer's side and we only waited 30 days for an approval. I told my clients about the pitfalls of short sales and continued to remind them as we went further along, especially when they began to worry whether they would actually be able to close the deal. We continued to look at other homes in order to offset some of their uneasiness.

The waiting period definitely depends on the relationship the listing agent has with the bank. I called often and he, in turn called the bank requesting any new information. His staff is professional and courteous and I look forward to doing more business with his office.