Somewhere in 2007 housing began to slump. Many felt that slump and got out or changed to working with REO's or even short sales. At the same time there was a continuation of use of technology and the Internet. So what will it mean to be a Realtor in 2009?
In my opinion the successful Realtors will be the community experts. Gone are the days when you are a tour guide. Ironically this down turn in the market will contribute to our evolution. Take the short sale for example. If your buyer does not know that a second loan on a short sale can be a tax liability he/she is in for a big surprise. Also if you are not putting your short sale sellers into lease purchases you are doing you and them a disservice.
You will be called upon to know about the 4 horsemen , mold, poly-b pipes, LP siding and radon. The Internet will provide the vanilla services that we as Realtors used to provide. Our roles will be enhanced and deepened. In the end we will be come the trusted adviser's and service providers.
This is a good thing for us. But like all changes it is tough. Learn and thrive in 2009
