Prior to becoming a real estate broker, once upon a time I bought a house.  It was my first purchase alone, as a single-parent, back in 1999.  I had a neighbor at the time who was a realtor, and so she became mine.  I didn't interview anyone.  I simply trusted her.  She taught me some of my most valuable lessons to date.

1)  Lesson 1:  Listen to your clients!
     Sadly, she asked my price range and then she chose the houses we would view.  I really didn't know better at the time.  I eventually bought a house I loved......but I had to walk through some atrocious prospects that were a waste of my time and hers.

2)  Lesson 2:  Give the client as much time as it takes.
     My realtor was in a rush to get me moved.  I know now that this can be a driving factor in a realtors life (the paycheck).  While we do like and need to get paid, I believe that earning money that is not based on a good decision for the buyer or a seller, is money not worth having.  Personally, I love to sleep at night.  If I achieved financial gain or success based on someone's "mistake", I'd lose a lot of sleep.  Without sleep, I cannot be a great mom, wife, friend, or Realtor, so it is my goal to help my clients make good decisions....even if the decision is not going to earn me a paycheck.  Truth!  I will not ever rush the process.  I have clients that will testify to this. 

3)  Lesson 3:  Clients may need me after the sale is complete.
     Wow, this is true in nearly 90% of the sales I have been a part of.  And it was true of me when I bought my first home.  3 months later I learned that there was some old termite damage that had never been reparied, and it was negatively affecting the integrity of the structure of the home.  I freaked out, called my realtor and asked her what I should do.  She said, "I don't know, but I can't help you!".  The end.  First of all, I'd like to think that I could help to prevent such a nasty discovery, but regardless, if there is a problem, I will be on the phone, calling anyone I know who can help.  I have been known to haul off junk (for a buyer) that a seller left behind.   I have tracked down paperwork from attorneys offices, called warranty companies, etc.  Every "issue" I have assisted with has been much smaller than my termite trauma, but the point is.....I am providing a service, and I understand that you may need me even after I have been paid.  Bring it on!  If I can help, I will....and if I cannot, I will find out who can.   

4:  Lesson 4:  Be courteous to the client but be strong, wise, and professional when working through a negotiation.
     My first realtor never told me I could negotiate for a lower price on the house I was trying to buy....in fact, she told me to offer more.  It wasn't even a competitive sellers market at the time.  Now, I have also learned that treating other realtors with courtesy and respect is a benefit to everyone, so I do this.  However, I will work extremely hard, with all of my knowledge and experience, to negotiate your desires for the best possible outcome.