Realtor or Matchmaker?

This may seem kind of quirky, but I was thinking about it yesterday and thought I'd share it...

My buyers often tell me that my approach to real estate is different (in a good way), and quite refreshing. I thought about it and realized I approach it in more of the way of a "Matchmaker". Most of my life I've been an Interior Designer, where I would "create home environments" for my clients. When finding a home for a buyer, I search for a home that they can have a "long term relationship" with. When there is slight interest, I ask them if, "the angels are singing"? I associate that with... when you meet someone, is there chemistry? Something goes off in your head, and lets you know. If there isn't...move on to the next.

Yesterday I showed property in Trinity, FL. My clients are a young couple, first home buyers, just starting their "next phase" in life. Anyway...we saw 3 perfect (in different ways) homes.

The 1st one is perfect in every way...3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, wood floors, pool, manicured lawn, and move in ready. The price is in their range, but is less negotiable. "Perfect but inflexible"

The 2nd home is a bit smaller and was a rental, but could be a diamond in the rough. Needs some cosmetic work (outdated), but has a beautiful view, offers more of a fun environment, and is waaaay under their price range. "Not worldly but good and solid"

The 3rd is a really large, recently foreclosed home in a gated more prestigious neighborhood. This home has everything the 1st one does, and then some. BUT...it has a broken window (former homeowner may have had to retrieve some belongings, and couldn't get in), the pool is green, and some holes in the walls. This one is the same price as the 1st one, but is more negotiable. "Recently divorced"

Years ago owning a home was a sense of accomplishment. The home was valued, protected, and cared for as a member of the family. I am not sure which home my clients will choose, but I believe my approach to real estate, will help them value it more.

In this new market will we as Realtors continue selling houses like commodities, or will we be more like Matchmakers, connecting homes with owners for the "long haul"?

Maureen Velilla
Realtor
Century 21 East Lake Realty
www.NotJustAnAgent.com
MaureenVelilla@aol.com