Special offer
Paul S. Henderson, REALTOR®, CRS, South Puget Sound Washington Agent/Broker! (Fathom Realty Washington LLC)

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Ambassador
1,452,669
Susan Emo
Sotheby's International Realty Canada - Brokerage - Kingston, ON
Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area

Text is my choice.  I might text "You've got mail" or "Call me when you have a moment" because I know they're going to respond to a text first.  I really do not enjoy speaking on the phone unless it is absolutely necessary.

Nov 15, 2015 03:40 AM
Rainmaker
3,071,489
Tony and Suzanne Marriott, Associate Brokers
Serving the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale Metropolitan Area - Scottsdale, AZ
Haven Express @ Keller Williams Arizona Realty

MY preference has always been email because it keeps a record - either email back and forth or an email (from me) after a verbal discussion "to confirm our discussion".  I've added texting as "acceptable" now that I can do that from my desktop AND save a copy of the text string for the communication log.

Nov 15, 2015 09:41 PM
Rainmaker
4,800,082
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

1.  In person, face to face.

2. Phone

3. Email

4. Text

5. Smoke signals.

Nov 15, 2015 04:11 AM
Rainmaker
3,988,007
Debbie Reynolds, C21 Platinum Properties
Platinum Properties- (931)771-9070 - Clarksville, TN
The Dedicated Clarksville TN Realtor-(931)320-6730

I personally like text if it a short message and more detailed needs email and a real live call if it needs further explanation. Some situations call for all three.

Nov 15, 2015 08:54 AM
Rainmaker
7,835,293
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

If I can't talk with a person, I prefer email.

Younger clients may prefer texting.

Nov 15, 2015 02:22 AM
Rainmaker
5,583,278
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

I don't communicate with clients anymore....only agents .... and text is not always the best way....words are misinterpreted as well as email.... important conversations are done by phone or in person....otherwise a quick email or text....

Nov 15, 2015 02:01 AM
Rainer
10,898
Adam Holmwood
Crown Title - Columbia, MD
Serving the real estate community

I think it's ultimately up to the customer.  Part of providing good customer service is being able to communicate effectively when and how the client needs.   

Nov 16, 2015 01:37 AM
Rainer
15,095
Erin Newman
My Home Group - Scottsdale, AZ
Highest Level of Real Estate Service in the Valley

As much as it takes time,  I believe that conversations are the best.  That is really how I feel that relationships are nurtured.  Following up with email cements in what was discussed.

We are in a business of relationships.  Nothing can replace our voice when working with clients.  It is our duty to protect our industry with the fact that we can communicate and that is our job.

 

Nov 15, 2015 10:29 PM
Rainmaker
5,104,931
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Realtor

I prefer email if I can't speak, but use text as needed for a quick message.

Nov 15, 2015 09:52 PM
Rainer
23,046
Keith Kenner
Chatuge Land Co. - Hiawassee, GA
Real Estate Lake Chatuge Realtor Northeast Georgia

Texting and email create an accurate account of the discussions. The telephone if I have a good workin relationship with the customer. At times people use more time on the phone and won't let me go. TEXTING AND EMAIL!

Nov 15, 2015 08:34 PM
Rainmaker
1,661,836
John McCormack, CRS
Albuquerque Homes Realty - Albuquerque, NM
Honesty, Integrity, Results, Experienced. HIRE Me!

It varies from client to client.  I'm seeing more like texting which works just fine with me. 

Nov 15, 2015 08:28 PM
Ambassador
3,164,119
Tammy Lankford,
Lane Realty Eatonton, GA Lake Sinclair, Milledgeville, 706-485-9668 - Eatonton, GA
Broker GA Lake Sinclair/Eatonton/Milledgeville

my preference is the phone. But I do what the client prefers UNLESS I think my tone is being misread in type, then I just text or email them to call me to discuss. 

Nov 15, 2015 02:27 PM
Rainmaker
2,224,473
Debbie Laity
Cedaredge Land Company - Cedaredge, CO
Your Real Estate Resource for Delta County, CO

I prefer email, because it saves time and I'm a quick typer and can get across a lot of information quickly, but I also text and still have some clients that want the personal touch with a phone call. 

Nov 15, 2015 11:02 AM
Rainmaker
530,966
Gary Coles (International Referrals)
Venture Realty International - Las Vegas, NV
Latin America Real Estate

I have been using Facebook messenger the most with email in second place.

Nov 15, 2015 02:19 AM
Rainer
149,000
Jim Joeriman
Coldwell Banker Riviera Realty, Inc - Lacey Township, NJ
Helping Agents Reach New Heights

It depends on who I have to communicate with.  For non urgent business related people, email.  For friends and clients, I still prefer the phone.  I use text, but my fingers are to big, and speech rec for me ofter requires editing, and the big fingers come into play.

Nov 29, 2015 08:32 PM
Rainer
7,980
Mario Taormina
Keller Williams Realty of the Treasure Coast - Stuart, FL

It depends who I am trying to communicate with.  I prefer in person contact.  Typically, when communicating with boomers, I find that they prefer a phone call.  Gen X likes email.  Mellinials prefer a text. I try to use a combination of all 3 but I always lik. Toask how they prefer being contacted and use their preferred method for the quickest response.

Nov 26, 2015 11:15 PM
Rainer
216,904
Sharon Altier
Coldwell Banker Realty - Elmhurst, IL
Luxury Property Specialist, CSC, SFR

Firm believe in email.  Most people will have access on their phones as well and it gives me good record to keep property file on email system.

Nov 25, 2015 01:30 AM
Rainer
8,164
Jessica Friedland
RE/MAX Infinity Group - Spokane, WA
Real Estate Broker in WA and ID

Email! I only text if I know the client pretty well or they have asked to communicate that way!!

Nov 23, 2015 12:51 AM
Rainmaker
90,543
Debra Peters
Referral Realty - Manorville, NY
NY Real Estate Salesperson

I prefer calling and speaking with them directly. Depending on cell phone service, texts don't always go through, emails get lost in junk mail. Technology is great but not reliable.

Nov 18, 2015 05:36 AM
Rainer
140,560
Richard L. McKinney P.A.
Atlantic Shores Realty Expertise - Port St Lucie, FL
For Results that MOVE you on the Treasure Coast!

I have an ISA (inside sales assistant) that follows up with clients with a call at least once per week and also updates by email. I am copied in on all emails and I personally contact the customer by phone or text as needed. This communication is vital to keeping deals together and keeping customers happy. 

Nov 18, 2015 04:09 AM
Rainmaker
1,291,481
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

Call me old-fashioned, but with mortgages being so specific in needs and detail, I still prefer to talk with my clients and referral partnersm, Paul S. Henderson, Realtor, Tacoma Washington.  Emails, texting, etc. serve a purpose and can work efficiently in many ways.  But sometimes a real conversation is really needed to make sure directions or requests are clear and understood ...

Gene

Nov 18, 2015 12:03 AM
Rainer
19,775
Eric McLellan
Keller Williams - Frederick, MD
Realtor Serving all of Greater Frederick

My favorite is whichever way the client prefers.  They are so much more likely to be comfortable that way.  Trust is earned on their home field.

Nov 17, 2015 11:21 PM
Rainmaker
940,545
David Alan Baker | Laveen & South Phoenix Realtor
Keller Williams Realty Phoenix - Laveen, AZ
Your local Expert

I myself have decided to not care, it is not my choice anyway.  I ask my clients what their choice is, and I try to work with the way each one likes.

Nov 17, 2015 06:12 AM
Rainmaker
1,209,215
Amanda Christiansen
Christiansen Group Realty (260)704-0843 - Fort Wayne, IN
Christiansen Group Realty

I've closed deals where 99.9% of the communication between me and my client was through Facebook messaging.  True story.  

Nov 17, 2015 12:59 AM
Rainer
76,824
Renee Eubanks
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage - Prescott, AZ
Selling Real Estate One Home At A Time.

Face to face.  I had a client text me a question and I texted back my answer.  He replied he didn't understand my answer.  I told him when we meet in person I would explain so I can use my hands too!  Can't express myself in email or text as well as face to face.

Nov 17, 2015 12:07 AM
Rainer
273,237
Richard Robibero, e-Pro, ABR, SRS
Panorama R.E. Limited - Toronto, ON
Selling Your Home as if it were My Own!

Admittedly it's text if the client is on the same side of the equation. Sometimes I just need a tidbit of information or they do as well. That means I am not interupted and can get straight to the point.

Need to discuss something? Then I call.

Neet to provide information that they need for later on? Email.

Nov 16, 2015 09:59 PM
Rainmaker
1,562,386
Carla Muss-Jacobs, RETIRED
RETIRED / State License is Inactive - Portland, OR

I like email.  It can be written anytime, and answered anytime.  If it's urgent -- it's the phone!

Nov 16, 2015 10:41 AM
Rainmaker
206,764
Cynthia Grimes 443-506-0359
BHHS PenFed Realty- Office 240-815-9040 - Frederick, MD
"With You Every Step Home!"

I prefer to text when a quick message needs to be relayed.  Other times I feel a detailed email is needed and also an email to document that you completed something and/or to document that you sent something you needed to.  Phone is ok but not my preferred only to save time but it is necessary to maintain the relationship with some clients.  Many of the younger clients don't even seem to like to get a phone call.  I think whatever the client prefers is really the best answer.  Create a communication plan upfront with the client.

Nov 16, 2015 09:21 AM
Rainmaker
519,324
Dan Tabit
Keller Williams Bellevue - Sammamish, WA

Hi Paul, I like email or texting because I can always refer back to those messages.  Actual voice conversations by phone or in person are more personal and shouldn't be overlooked for the convenience of the others. 

Nov 16, 2015 08:49 AM
Rainmaker
185,205
Ann Dail
Baton Rouge Area Homes, Louisiana, USA, 225-761-0551 - Baton Rouge, LA
Broker/Realtor,CRS, ePRO, SRS, B.A.Chem

When I first meet someone I ask, "What's your prefered way of communicating, voice, text, or email?"  Often they are surprised that I ask.  It does several things.  It shows that I plan to communicate.  It sets me apart from many others they meet.   It demonstrates my focus is on what's best for them, not me. It sets the grondwork for a successful relationship moving forward.

Nov 16, 2015 08:27 AM
Rainmaker
1,731,203
Rob Thomas
Prestige Homes of The Tri Cities, Inc. CALL....423-341-6954 - Bristol, TN
Bristol TN-VA & Tri Cities Agent, ABR, GRI, e-Pro

Calling and text Paul S. Henderson, Realtor, Tacoma Washington ....I just talking to someone ....hearing their voice means a lot!

Nov 16, 2015 08:03 AM
Rainmaker
679,404
Diana Dahlberg
1 Month Realty - Pleasant Prairie, WI
Real Estate in Kenosha, WI since 1994 262-308-3563

Depending upon how I receive my first communication from the prospective client:  I will call, text or email.  My favorite is texting or email because it does not force the person to communicate with me until they are free from whatever they were doing then I reached out to them.  Seems the millenials like texting over all other communications and so I'm there.

Nov 16, 2015 06:40 AM
Rainer
75,959
Jillian La Rocque
St Thomas, VI

I like face to face contact with clients but when I want things to be clear and unambiguous I prefer to send an email. I hate texting and whatsapping. Have never gotten used to leaving voice messages. I hate trying to precis what I want to see and still have to end up calling again and explaining if the customer returns the call.

Nov 16, 2015 04:23 AM
Rainer
66,105
Vicki Wolpert
Keller Williams Realty Capital District - Athens, NY
Sleepy Hollow Lk/Greene,Columbia, Hudson, Athens

I think that calling someone to speak to them first is the best way to start the relationship. Then I go with emailing or texting - whichever the customer prefers. 

Nov 16, 2015 03:56 AM
Rainer
417,071
Caroline Gerardo
Licensed in 20 states - Newport Beach, CA
C. G. Barbeau the Loan Lady nmls 324982

Text - please open email

Anything complicated needs an email

Numbers, rate, terms, inspections costs all need email

Intial negotiations - phone and in person.

I find many clients love text but often miscommunication happens

Nov 16, 2015 03:16 AM
Rainmaker
4,571,881
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

If it is my choice -- I like phone calls followed by an email confirmation.   

As you stated, it's decided upfront with the client.  

Nov 16, 2015 12:13 AM
Rainer
252,600
Macy Babb ... North Georgia Realtor
Re/Max Around Atlanta Realtor - 404-234-6166 - Cartersville, GA
Realtor, SFR, HUD/REO Certified

I try to use the method that the client likes to use the most...which is steadily becoming text.  And Slydial being my favorite way to leave message... still personal, but I don't have to disturb my clients at dinner

Nov 15, 2015 11:35 PM
Rainmaker
815,995
Paul McFadden
Responsive Pest Control - Seattle, WA
Pest Control, Seattle, WA.

I like to call although one of my younger customers always texts.

Nov 15, 2015 11:34 PM
Rainer
428,833
Chris Lima
Turtle Reef Realty - Port St Lucie, FL
Local or Global-Allow me to open doors for you.

My preferred method of communication is usually governed by the method that my customer is most comfortable with. However; I prefer a good old fashioned face to face conversation(call me CRAZY), a phone conversation followed up with an email, and my least favorite would be TEXTING.

Nov 15, 2015 10:04 PM
Rainmaker
4,882,355
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker

I will ask the client what is their preferred method.

Nov 15, 2015 09:28 PM
Rainmaker
977,386
Brigita McKelvie, Associate Broker
Cindy Stys Equestrian and Country Properties, Ltd. - Lehigh Valley, PA
The Broker with horse sense and no horsing around

It pretty much depends.  Sometimes it is difficult to atually speak with the client because of their job.  In these instances, I will either text them asking them to call me when they are available or I will email them if it can be explained in writing.

Nov 15, 2015 09:22 PM
Rainmaker
4,434,127
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

It depends on what the client wants.

Nov 15, 2015 08:50 PM
Rainer
330,375
Donald Reich
Madison Specs - New Rochelle, NY
Cost Segregation Specialist


Every situation is different, and every client is different. Different situations calls for different types of communication

Nov 15, 2015 05:50 PM
Rainmaker
2,759,812
TeamCHI - Complete Home Inspections, Inc.
Complete Home Inspections, Inc. - Brentwood, TN
Home Inspectons - Nashville, TN area - 615.661.029

 Good Monday morning Paul. Call me old-fashioned, call me what you want, just call me.

Nov 15, 2015 05:17 PM
Rainmaker
2,538,633
Joe Petrowsky
Mortgage Consultant, Right Trac Financial Group, Inc. NMLS # 2709 - Manchester, CT
Your Mortgage Consultant for Life

Good morning Paul. Test is my least favorite way to communicate, but sometimes it isn't an option. Phone and email works best for me.

Nov 15, 2015 04:40 PM
Rainmaker
4,319,419
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Andover, MA
Andover, MA: Andover Luxury Homes For Sale

Paul S. Henderson, Realtor, Tacoma Washington I prefer phone and email - and as a last choice, text. Though you are right - it's their choice, finally.

When in comes to important discussions and agreements, it has to be email!

Nov 15, 2015 03:36 PM
Rainmaker
1,622,432
Inna Ivchenko
Barcode Properties - Encino, CA
Realtor® • GRI • HAFA • PSC Calabasas CA

I would not say it is universal favorite, it is all depends on what it is about. Some times texts are very efficient since it is short and fast, if you need to have a more detailed conversation, you have to talk via the phone or F2F, emails are for more official communication. 

Nov 15, 2015 02:32 PM
Rainer
68,845
Sandra Graves
Keller Williams Realty - Folsom, CA
Realtor

It depends on the client, but personally, I prefer text. 

Nov 15, 2015 02:06 PM
Rainmaker
400,356
Jill Murty, Realtor - Orange County, CA
Movoto - Laguna Niguel, CA

If the client has a preference, that's what becomes my preference during that transaction even if it's not my actual preference.

Nov 15, 2015 01:34 PM
Ambassador
3,727,873
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@Properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

I'll have what they're having.  Whatever the client prefers is what I do.

Nov 15, 2015 12:43 PM
Rainmaker
979,496
Troy Erickson AZ Realtor (602) 295-6807
HomeSmart - Chandler, AZ
Your Chandler, Ahwatukee, and East Valley Realtor

Paul - I like talking on the phone so you can actually interact and there is no misunderstanding. Secondly would be email, because I don't want to text things that are complex or long and detailed. Texting is for brief things like, yes I will be there, or no the inspection is scheduled for Tuesday at 10:00am, etc.

Nov 15, 2015 11:56 AM
Rainmaker
2,362,584
Lise Howe
Keller Williams Capital Properties - Washington, DC
Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC

i like to talk - I hate emails that are longer than a paragraph - so I guess I am better w/ texts

Nov 15, 2015 10:54 AM
Rainmaker
1,683,912
Larry Johnston
Broker, Friends & Neighbors Real Estate and Elkhart County Subdivisions, LLC - Elkhart, IN
Broker,Friends & Neighbors Real Estate, Elkhart,IN

either face to face or on the phone is my choice.

Nov 15, 2015 10:19 AM
Rainmaker
628,734
Buzz Mackintosh
Mackintosh REALTORS - Frederick, MD
“Experience, reliable, leadership”

I prefer to talk on the phone, but if the client prefers email or text I will accommodate. I find  face to face or on the phone you can grasp more of the clients mood or sense of urgency

Nov 15, 2015 09:27 AM
Rainmaker
3,986,258
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

I like the pesonal contact...voice to voice whenever possible

Nov 15, 2015 08:14 AM
Ambassador
6,392,899
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

I like to communicate in the old fashioned way, give me a call.

Nov 15, 2015 08:09 AM
Rainer
321,564
Melissa Jackson REALTOR
Trinity Premier Properties - Azle, TX
Helping You Make The Right Move

If not face to face I prefer text.  Many people contact me with face book messenger. That's ok, but I want a phone number.  

Nov 15, 2015 07:58 AM
Rainmaker
617,935
David Gibson CNE, 719-304-4684 ~ Colorado Springs Relocation
Colorado Real Estate Advisers LLC - Colorado Springs, CO
Relocation, Luxury & Lifestyle residential

Paul
Text is ok for quick information, and email is good for things you send late at night but there is no substitute for a conversation. I don’t let too many texts or emails go by without a call.

Nov 15, 2015 06:47 AM
Rainmaker
1,157,785
FN LN
Toronto, ON

It depends on who am communicating with and the nature of the communication.

Nov 15, 2015 06:35 AM
Rainmaker
5,216,284
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Chicago, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Their call, I always ask and try to honor their request.

Nov 15, 2015 06:16 AM
Rainmaker
1,712,676
Joe Pryor
The Virtual Real Estate Team - Oklahoma City, OK
REALTOR® - Oklahoma Investment Properties

Depends on the client. I usually follow what they like best.

Nov 15, 2015 05:31 AM
Rainmaker
2,443,250
Evelyn Johnston
Friends & Neighbors Real Estate - Elkhart, IN
The People You Know, Like and Trust!

I like texting the most because it goes quickly.  I also like texting the least because they cannot see your face or body language.

Nov 15, 2015 05:22 AM
Rainmaker
1,525,616
Sybil Campbell
Fernandina Beach, FL
Referral Agent Amelia Island Florida

I like email and or text since it is in writing.

Nov 15, 2015 04:45 AM
Rainmaker
1,502,868
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

My philosophy:

Email is great for giving data, voice is good for something complicated or something that might generate questions, text is good for short tactical communications.

Nov 15, 2015 03:59 AM
Rainmaker
5,868,372
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

I would have to say, if it is important, you MUST call.   Some information is ok to text, but stuff I want for a paper trail must be in email format.

Nov 15, 2015 03:37 AM
Rainmaker
1,466,207
Michael Setunsky
Woodbridge, VA
Your Commercial Real Estate Link to Northern VA

Paul S. Henderson, Realtor, Tacoma Washington Phone, email, text in this order.

Nov 15, 2015 03:36 AM
Rainmaker
5,772,575
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Paul,

the phone, however, I would suggest that this should be established at the time you start working together.  A

Nov 15, 2015 03:22 AM
Rainmaker
1,239,801
Sam Shueh
(408) 425-1601 - San Jose, CA
mba, cdpe, reopro, pe

100% electronic media. I call them leave a brief msg tell them what I need.

My my clients are high tech they turn off their phone at work but have access to eMail or text. 

I did not want to go with a government high security engr. he can not ans calls and VM is always full. 

Nov 15, 2015 03:02 AM
Rainmaker
637,434
Hella M. Rothwell, Broker/Realtor®
Carmel by the Sea, CA
Rothwell Realty Inc. CA#01968433 Carmel-by-the-Sea

If it is a client, I follow up each conversation with an email to record what we talked about. Some clients don't want voice updates at all. One client was text only, and I respected that--as long as I was documenting it.

Nov 15, 2015 02:52 AM
Rainer
231,224
Mike Rock
Complete Design - Granite Bay, CA
Granite Bay Luxury New Construction...For Less

sometimes in person is not the most convienent . it all depends. we use all methods..

Nov 15, 2015 02:48 AM
Rainmaker
1,770,282
John Novak
Keller Williams Realty The Marketplace - Las Vegas, NV
Henderson, Las Vegas and Summerlin Real Estate

My favorite way is text -- it's non-interruptive and keeps communication short and to the point. If I want to document something, then it's email. And if the situation requires urgency I make a call.

Nov 15, 2015 02:41 AM