I played two rounds of golf this past week and used only one golf ball. I didn’t lose the ball, and it was never damaged or needed to be replaced. I can’t say that’s unusual, but my home course doesn’t have many water hazards or thick fescue that make it difficult to find your ball. Many resort courses have lots of water and places where it’s easy to lose one.
If you run out of golf balls mid-round, there is no rule that immediately disqualifies you, but you cannot continue without a ball. Under USGA Rule 4.2, you are allowed to get a replacement ball from anyone else, including your playing partners, caddies, or even bystanders. If you were playing in a very competitive match, though, it’s probably unlikely that a competitor would give you an extra ball or two.
In real estate, nobody is going to hand you extra business just so you can stay in the game. That’s why it’s important to always have a few extra opportunities in your bag.
No golfer tries to lose a golf ball, but they should always be prepared if they do.
The same could be said for Realtors. No one tries to lose clients, but they should always be prepared if they do.
Sometimes you don’t actually “lose” a client, but active clients can become inactive in the blink of an eye. A prospective Buyer decides to renew their lease. Some incoming Buyers don’t receive the transfer they expected from their employer. What about those times when a client “regrets informing you that their aunt or cousin is going to be helping them”? D’oh!
In our current market, buyers are canceling contracts more frequently due to home inspection and financing concerns. The listing agent puts the house “back on the market” while the buyer’s agent reactivates the client’s MLS search and starts anew. Sometimes it’s the Seller who needs to pull the plug or hit the “pause” button. Delayed or backed-up vendors waiting on products or needed services, snags in moving plans, or unforeseen family obligations or illnesses can cause that “coming soon” to become a “we’ll let you know when we’re ready.”
“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch” is a pretty appropriate cliché for Realtors to remember. It’s also a good reminder of why you need to keep planting seeds every day. Have more conversations to set more appointments. Follow the 4H Club or take on the weekly 6-Channel challenge.
No one wants to lose a golf ball, but it’s a good idea to have a few extras in your bag in case you do.
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