I recently did a listing presentation for a couple who had been trying to sell their home on their own for almost a year, then decided to bring in an agent. They live out of the area and trying to handle the sale on their own was a hassle, even though they have been successful with other homes in the past. And in this market the limited advertising they did was not doing the trick. AND the house was really over-priced.

I dogged these people for 6 months, sending them market data and updates, suggestions for marketing the home, and more. So I was very pleased to be asked to come in to talk with them (as one of 3 agents they were interviewing, for 30 minutes each).

The presentation, though brief, went well and we had a good conversation. They had some great questions, too. The house has its challenges, as it needs some updating, but the bones are good and the floor plan offers a number of possibilities.

A few days later Mrs. Seller called me, as I requested, to let me know that they had decided on another agent (as it turns out, someone they have known for a number of years) but they had really liked me and my approach and style. There was no negative feedback - they only chose this person because of the relationship. They will keep me in mind if things do not work out.

I told them I really hoped the house sold for them, even though that would mean I would not be their listing agent.

Sure, I would have liked to have had the listing, but I was pleased to be part of the process, and the feedback I got was very positive. So I feel that I still won, in the end. I wish them luck!