Tampa, FL - There are many good Realtors all over the country - people who take their real estate jobs seriously and who dedicate themselves to their clients and their business.  It's their livelihood and they treat it accordingly.  These folks return phone calls promptly, offer accurate directions to their listed properties, have adequate (at least) pictures of their listings, and do the real work required to be successful, whether they are working with a seller or a buyer.

There also are many bad Realtors out there.  These folks seem to make money in spite of themselves.  They make a living off the good natured, yet naive friends/clients who don't realize that their trusted agent is not very good at their job (I was being kind).  There are those who have many listings, but do the absolute minimum - only posting it in the MLS and an occaisional open house - to sell a property.  Others fail to return phone calls promptly (some of these might also be the ones doing the absolute minimum to sell a property).  And some have email addresses, but never respond to emails, even those that ask questions about a property they have listed.  A few don't answer their phone's, and don't return phone calls.  One such agent here in South Tampa has been guilty of all of the above, and this person has been, and still is very successful!

All these shortcomings do make a difference.  Potential buyers will walk away from properties represented by non-responsive Realtors, which extends the time to sale.  I know as I have clients who've done just that.  A client deserves better - even if they don't realize that better exists!  For a better Realtor, please visit: www.PrettyDogRealty.com.

So, let the 'client' beware, be they sellers or buyers... Choose your Realtor carefully, and that means asking relevant, difficult questions.  An agent isn't necessarily good just because they have been in the business for many years, or have many listings, or are a good friend.  That has been proven many times over.  They just know many people who are too lazy or trusting to take a little time to learn the truth about their 'good friend.'  A good agent will work just as hard for you after the papers have been signed.

I welcome your opinions.  Please feel free to add your comments!