Pamela Bell

Buyers aren't going to make offers for sport if submitting an offer requires it be in writing on a formal purchase agreement or contract with a credible pre-approval letter and a good faith deposit.

First offers here are in writing via email attachment with phone negotiation after that. In the "olden days" we presented in person and would often get a contract signed at that appointment. I don't think that has been the case in the last 15 years or more. Listing agents or sellers may live out of the area. Sellers have long commutes and travel. It isn't practical today to negotiate in person. Any listing agent will encourage their seller to counter. You can always make your points in Letter of Introduction with the offer or to the listing agent. I represent only buyers and negotiation with the listing agent is probably preferable than with the seller directly. It is just as often successful and very efficient. As we always say "real estate is local"! Pam Bell www.BuyersAdvisors.com Serving Northern NJ

It may be better for clients to use these for themselves. I don't know how practical it is to record pictures and notes for the clients while you are involved showing them the house, pointing out the pros and cons and answering their questions. It is one thing to take pictures for them and another to record their reaction to the property. They ask "how far to the train" and we say "wait a minute I have to make a few more notes"?