I recently closed two transactions where I worked very well with the agents on the other side. It was really nice, and we got the job done. That's what it's all about. No egos. If you have a seller that wants to sell and a buyer that wants to buy...don't get in the way. Make it happen. 

Absolutely 

Found this in my search for our post, Tony. I'm a big believer in working TOGETHER with the agents on the other side of transactions.

Yes.

Ask the homeowner of an EXPIRED listing if we are acting as professional, self controlled, professionals or more like a dog pack?

Unfortuneately, we are not made privy to what one agent may present, say or suggest regarding another agent or broker while at the dining room table. The reality is.....

We DO compete.

However, then the competition has ended and the listing won or lost, or the EBA signed, we understand, together we will get the transaction closed. Competing does not occur during a tranaction or even negotiation. At this time keeping all the wheels on the wagon requires all hands on deck and working towards the same goal.

I have never treated other agents like the competition--to me they are colleagues in a collaborative effort.

 Sadly, most  real estate agents do not work well together! The sandbox is only so big. Sadly, egos get in the way.

Understanding we are not in competition with each other was an eye opener to me.  When I realized we all knew different people it made such a huge difference to me.

The smart agents know it...

I do like working together and building relationships with other agents. This makes for more harmony and better negotiating when an offer comes in. 

I do realize that....those who focus on working together and cooperating with each other will always make more money.... I market to other agents who have a good chance of being a buyer's agent who cooperates with us!!!

Tony, that is a very good observation.  Too many agents think they are competing with each other and miss out on good opportunities to learn from each other. 

I do.  I try and communicate and work with the other agent.  However, I have to admit the lack of professionalism, communication, and flat out respect causes me to get frustrated with working with some agents.  Not all mind you.   Course, I should not be too upset, clients seem to be able to find the better agent(s) and we obtain more business.  Good question.

Tony Lewis I think this is a very competitive business, but we do work in harmony which makes it a great business.

Afternoon Tony I do hope you are enjoying your Sunday.  It's a tug of war and a harvest of giving... 

Smart real estate professionals make continuing efforts to have good relationships with others in the industry.