Are YOU the Eddie Haskell of Real Estate?

15 years ago

Recently, I wrote a post about sharing stories with my kids at bedtime each night, and how I sometimes tell them about old TV shows that I used to watch when I was their age (on re-runs, of course):

How Many Hours of Re-Runs Must I Have Watched as a Child?

Last night, I decided to tell them all about "Leave it to Beaver". I have a feeling that my description left something to be desired, since my son's main reaction was, "That sounds very 'little kiddish' to me." He's probably right, come to think of it. However, I was undaunted as I regaled them with tales from this 1950's staple.

Along the way, I also had to describe Eddie Haskell, of course.

For those of you who are completely unfamiliar with this show, you might want to just stop here and find a more interesting post to read, because this may bore you to tears. However, like with my kids last night, I will plow along here regardless, hoping that you enjoy the ride.

So, how did I describe Eddie to my kids?

"Eddie Haskell was friends with Wally, who was Beaver's older brother. Eddie was super-polite and nice whenever parents or teachers were around, then rude and sarcastic when they weren't. He was one of the most insincere people I've seen."

Needless to say, I had to do my own impression of Eddie Haskell for them. Not too shabby, I might add.

Today, I started thinking about Eddie, and about how many people I have had the displeasure of working with in real estate who remind me of him. Have you encountered any agents like this? No? Just me, huh?

I would wager that if you have been selling homes very long at all (or walking around, or breathing) that you have come across a handful of Eddie Haskells in your day.

I don't have a lot of pet peeves, but false friendliness is one of mine (blatant stupidity is another, in case you were wondering). If you merely ACT friendly, it shows. If you ARE friendly, it shines through as well. We've all had situations when we had to be civil despite our urges to the contrary, but there's really no need to overdo it. As a dog smells fear, people can sniff out insincerity very quickly.

I once had an agent who must have said "isn't this just pretty as a postcard" more times than I care to remember when showing me and my buyer clients a $2 million home in west Austin. Thanks, Eddie.

On another occasion, an agent greeted my clients with "Welcome home" on a FIRST showing as we walked up. Nice to meet you, Mr. Haskell.

Please drop the scripted niceties and sales techniques. JUST BE YOURSELF. You will gain more respect from everyone you meet. No need for saccharine if I am around. I happen to prefer sugar, because it's REAL.