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

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Rainmaker
564,544
Maria Sapio
Keller Williams of Central PA - Carlisle, PA
Real Estate Agent- Carlisle, PA. Mariasapio.com

I would certainly opt to take separate cars and then explain that in order for us to see these homes, the seller had to vacate the property and as a courtesy to them, let's put aside our side conversations and give these homes our utmost attention! 

Apr 25, 2018 03:59 AM
Ambassador
2,707,918
Fred Griffin Florida Real Estate
Fred Griffin Real Estate - Tallahassee, FL
Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

   Were they a politician?  Or a bureaucrat?  Or just a political news junkie?

Apr 24, 2018 10:01 PM
Ambassador
2,574,385
Kat Palmiotti
eXp Commercial, Referral Divison - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

Never. If someone starts talking politics, I immediately change the topic. I feel as though most "political discussions" are simply whining. Most people don't know how to have a rational discussion. After about 5 seconds, I'm done. 

Apr 25, 2018 03:41 AM
Rainmaker
1,059,812
Ritu Desai 703-625-4949
Samson Properties - Chantilly, VA
Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor

As a DC Metro resident and Northern Virginia Realtor, we cannot shy away from these things. Politics is in our backyard. It was tough before and post-election in 2016. Many emotions were being shared on either side. However, I do request the clients not to make any political conversation. Or I will brush it off with some other conversations. 
Even on social media where I have clients with strong political opinions I refrain from replying to any of the post.

Apr 25, 2018 03:20 AM
Rainmaker
544,114
Dave Halpern
Dave Halpern Real Estate Agent, Inc., Louisville, KY (502) 664-7827 - Louisville, KY
Louisville Short Sale Expert

I try not to engage. Too much risk.

Apr 25, 2018 01:22 AM
Ambassador
6,685,588
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

They come up, but dont get in the way of the task at hand.

Apr 24, 2018 10:40 PM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

Sometimes we are called upon to be the therapist.

Many feel the need to speak regarding what troubles their heart or disrupts their peace.  Being a therapist means acknowledge but do not pick up the burden.

Then I would add, "A Republican/Democrat (whoever they are ranting against)) would make a full price offer."

Apr 25, 2018 04:38 AM
Rainmaker
2,288,415
Andrew Mooers | 207.532.6573
MOOERS REALTY - Houlton, ME
Northern Maine Real Estate-Aroostook County Broker

Start asking questions about housing, their last place and what they did and did not like and then segue into this next house has that larger kitchen, that first floor bedroom for your mother in law etc and make it all about housing. 

Apr 25, 2018 03:41 AM
Rainmaker
4,737,169
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hi Paul - I don't recall that ever happening. Not in real life.

Apr 25, 2018 03:16 AM
Rainmaker
1,100,809
Candice A. Donofrio
Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker - Fort Mohave, AZ
928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text

I have many favorite clients who are also very politically interested; some, politically involved. I love our chats.
But when it comes time to get down to business, out the window it goes, definitely not in mixed company.
No matter what they're thinking, I advise buyers to be Lady Gaga Poker Face when they're in the property.
And sellers, keep your damn mouth shut too. We'll talk after they leave.

People that are hand-wringingly obsessed with politics, taking it so seriously that they are intellectually and emotionally impaired are not my demographic.

Apr 25, 2018 06:41 AM
Rainmaker
1,870,453
Lyn Sims
Schaumburg, IL
Real Estate Broker Retired

I would remind them we are here to see homes! No talk of anything else on the tour.

Apr 25, 2018 05:14 AM
Rainmaker
5,310,754
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Fortunately, not. Well, at least not yet.

Apr 25, 2018 04:02 AM
Rainer
509,499
Susie Kay
Ultra Real Estate Dallas Fort Worth - Plano, TX
North Dallas Specialist

I have not and I avoid discussing politics and religion.  I would just listen to them. 

Apr 25, 2018 07:18 AM
Rainmaker
5,774,095
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Paul,

I cannot say I have.  I think Maria Sapio said it well.  A

Apr 25, 2018 06:59 AM
Rainmaker
3,074,389
Tony and Suzanne Marriott, Associate Brokers
Serving the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale Metropolitan Area - Scottsdale, AZ
Coldwell Banker Realty

Kat Palmiotti nailed this one!

Apr 25, 2018 05:39 AM
Rainmaker
5,114,065
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker

I would remind them we are on a mission and we must maximize our time.

Apr 25, 2018 05:18 AM
Rainmaker
2,520,681
Bob "RealMan" Timm
Ward County Notary Services - Minot, ND
Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker

It hasn't been limited to politics in many cases for me Paul S. Henderson, REALTOR®,CRS, 

Apr 25, 2018 07:17 AM
Rainmaker
2,848,056
Richie Alan Naggar
people first...then business Ran Right Realty - Riverside, CA
agent & author

Had a friend/neighbor who was too emotional and intellectual regarding politics making it hard to have simple dialog. Open your heart not your mind

Apr 25, 2018 06:35 AM
Ambassador
5,486,412
Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

Yes and oddly enough, it seems to be one particular party. I don't engage in the conversation, Paul. As you suggested, I feel like I'm interrupting just to show them the city and the homes but, I do change the conversation at every opportunity!

Apr 25, 2018 06:25 AM
Rainmaker
8,149,414
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Those conversations can be expected at this time of the year. We have primary elections in June in Maryland and the President provides topics several times each day.

Apr 25, 2018 05:58 AM
Rainmaker
3,416,372
Scott Godzyk
Godzyk Real Estate Services - Manchester, NH
One of the Manchester NH's area Leading Agents

Here in NH, politics are a way of life for money. So yes it can happen. I try to stick to the jb of selling the home. I never want to get into a debate. Last week though there was a man from CA looking to move to NH who wanted to argue gun control more than see homes. I started writing a blog about it as it lead to some excitement when another agent told them "if CA laws worked so well, maybe they should stay there than try to change NH laws"

Apr 25, 2018 05:21 AM
Rainmaker
1,713,581
Joe Pryor
The Virtual Real Estate Team - Oklahoma City, OK
REALTOR® - Oklahoma Investment Properties

Haven't had that problem although at times politics does come up.

Apr 25, 2018 03:52 AM
Rainmaker
3,627,422
James Dray
Fathom Realty - Bentonville, AR

Not so much.  Politics and religion are two things I don't give my opinion on, at least not around a client

Apr 25, 2018 03:37 AM
Rainmaker
4,273,331
Paul S. Henderson, REALTOR®, CRS
Fathom Realty Washington LLC - Tacoma, WA
South Puget Sound Washington Agent/Broker!

The client, who was driving herself, would find something, in every house we looked at, to something that she could equate to her political point or talking points. 

At one point I asked her if I had offended her in some way that she had to keeping politics a focal point in each house we visited. She said I seemed interested and I am a good listener...

Apr 25, 2018 10:41 PM
Rainmaker
1,619,361
Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, ePRO
Big Block Realty 858.232.8722 - La Jolla, CA
Serving Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Seniors

Yes, religion too. I say "Please excuse me, I need to chat you up with questions about your real estate plans and I do not discuss politics, religion nor sex while working. I'm always right so there's no point, but where the client is always right is real estate, so let's talk real estate!"

Apr 25, 2018 04:37 PM
Rainer
216,960
Sharon Altier
Coldwell Banker Realty - Elmhurst, IL
Luxury Property Specialist, CSC, SFR

Never had that happen.  Sounds like someone hasn't gotten out much....

Apr 25, 2018 11:59 AM
Rainmaker
519,824
Dan Tabit
Keller Williams Bellevue - Sammamish, WA

I haven't had it that bad. It comes up. When we happen to generally agree, it's a lot better than when they have a different viewpoint. I can smile through anything, but I worry about nonverbal cues. 

Apr 25, 2018 09:56 AM
Rainmaker
637,534
Hella M. Rothwell, Broker/Realtor®
Carmel by the Sea, CA
Rothwell Realty Inc. CA#01968433 Carmel-by-the-Sea

Many people just like to hear themselves talk and they probably are news junkies. And that's pretty much what's on the news. I just let them talk, don't agree or disagree, I just keep talking about the house or try to change the subject to pets, children or grandchildren, stuff that helps me to get to know THEM besides their political leanings.

Apr 25, 2018 08:39 AM
Rainmaker
5,584,639
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

I'd put a quick end to it.... I don't discuss politics or religion with any client....and I'd make it known....

Apr 25, 2018 08:14 AM
Rainmaker
1,538,434
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

Yes, but we were friends and on the same side of the spectrum.

Apr 25, 2018 07:55 AM
Ambassador
3,430,007
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

I have not.  If what you describe happens, I would listen.  When we arrive at the home, I'd say ... sorry to interrupt ... but it is time to take a break and go see this home! 

Apr 25, 2018 07:23 AM
Rainmaker
684,752
Diana Dahlberg
1 Month Realty - Pleasant Prairie, WI
Real Estate in Kenosha, WI since 1994 262-308-3563

It's all part of daily life these days ... I just go with the flow.

Apr 25, 2018 07:19 AM
Rainmaker
3,986,473
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

I have had to tell a few clients over the years that we need to concentrate on the job at hand

Apr 25, 2018 06:21 AM
Rainmaker
1,262,263
Sam Shueh
(408) 425-1601 - San Jose, CA
mba, cdpe, reopro, pe

Let them rattle and focus on homes.

Apr 25, 2018 06:10 AM
Rainmaker
4,800,282
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

I've had some try.  But, I typically stop them.

Apr 25, 2018 05:53 AM
Rainmaker
1,429,068
Joyce M. Marsh
Luxury Home Couture - Daytona Beach, FL
Joyce Marsh Homes & Design

I try to steer away from any political discussions and tactfully get back to the subject at hand. 

Apr 26, 2018 02:33 AM
Rainmaker
4,322,035
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Burlington, MA
Metro Boston Homes For Sale

Paul S. Henderson, REALTOR®,CRS, - I just show that I am not interested in it.

Apr 25, 2018 10:30 PM
Ambassador
3,213,219
Tammy Lankford,
Lane Realty Eatonton, GA Lake Sinclair, Milledgeville, 706-485-9668 - Eatonton, GA
Broker GA Lake Sinclair/Eatonton/Milledgeville

I've had people bring it up, but no one dwell on it.

Apr 25, 2018 08:19 PM
Rainmaker
3,988,138
Debbie Reynolds, C21 Platinum Properties
Platinum Properties- (931)771-9070 - Clarksville, TN
The Dedicated Clarksville TN Realtor-(931)320-6730

I don't participate in these conversations so they shut down pretty quickly.

Apr 25, 2018 07:51 PM
Rainmaker
2,249,064
Michael J. Perry
Fathom Realty - Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA Relo Specialist

I keep changing the subject

Apr 25, 2018 07:25 AM
Rainmaker
4,434,227
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

No.

Apr 25, 2018 04:58 AM
Rainmaker
1,045,965
Dave Martin (703) 585-4687
Fairfax Realty - Fairfax, VA
Making Realty Dreams a Reality #WeWillGetYouHome

I live in N. Virginia and can easily see the Washington Monument from many areas here. The close proximity to the political power mecca many people talk about politics but most do not. Probably because we live it all day here lol

May 01, 2018 09:35 AM
Rainmaker
5,198,211
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

Yes, and I just listen to them but do not give a opinion, try to talk about the house when I can.

 

Apr 30, 2018 03:54 PM
Rainmaker
1,442,553
John Juarez
The Medford Real Estate Team - Fremont, CA
ePRO, SRES, GRI, PMN

I would smile and nod but it would be hard to do justice to the properties being shown...and I would then return home to an adult beverage.

Apr 28, 2018 04:13 PM
Rainmaker
6,002,794
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

No, and that would be very awkward.  I would probably keep on interrupting and talk about houses.

Apr 28, 2018 06:53 AM
Rainer
87,970
Jeff Perlis Prime Properties
Prime Properties - Lake Arrowhead, CA
Experience Your Own Transformation!

Maybe they are not there to see houses but to communicate their opinion?

Apr 27, 2018 12:41 AM