This may be controversial, but as the world evolves at a rapid pace, technology and automation increasingly dominate our daily lives.
When it comes to operating a real estate business or working within one, I have witnessed remarkable advancements in efficiency since I started in the mid-1990s.
However, I believe our industry is too quick to replace personal interactions with technological solutions.
Advanced technology undoubtedly enhances efficiency, but it should not replace the good old-fashioned phone call or face-to-face meeting when possible.
Conversations, whether good, bad, or indifferent, lead to quicker resolutions and better outcomes than the back-and-forth of emails, where almost all emotion is often lost.
Recently, I was involved in a sale transaction with an overseas owner who preferred email communication due to his work commitments and the time zone differences.
Email was certainly effective for routine communication during the listing and marketing of the property.
However, when it came to negotiating an offer, a phone call led to a much quicker and positive resolution for both the seller and the buyer.
Don’t get me wrong; I appreciate the speed, ease, and efficiency technology brings to my life.
Yet, I strive to provide good old-fashioned customer service.
For instance, when checking people in at an open home via phone or QR code, a line can form.
In such cases, I engage with the waiting visitors, allowing some to proceed and promising to catch their details on the way out.
This approach shows them that they are valued as individuals, not just part of a system.
It often becomes a talking point, with people even seeking me out to check-in later.
Balancing technology with human interaction is essential in our industry.
While automation offers many benefits, it is important to maintain the personal touch that builds trust and rapport with clients.
Human interactions foster relationships and provide a sense of reassurance that technology alone cannot offer.
In my experience, clients appreciate the effort to connect personally.
It demonstrates that we value them as individuals and are committed to providing a high level of service.
This approach often leads to repeat business and referrals, which are crucial for long-term success in real estate.
Moreover, human interaction allows for a deeper understanding of clients’ needs and preferences.
By engaging in meaningful conversations, we can better tailor our services to meet their specific requirements.
This level of customisation is difficult to achieve through automated processes alone.
As we continue to evolve technologically, it is crucial to balance automation with human interaction.
There will never be a perfect combination or solution, but it is important to remember the effectiveness of traditional communication methods.
Remember, real estate is not about property; it’s about people!
