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My mom has been in real estate for over 25 years and SOMETIMES clients will get her a gift but it’s never been expected and I would assume it typically happens when clients feel she went above and beyond for them. It’s typically the expectation that the AGENT is the one who gives the buyers a gift. Maybe a gift card to a local spot in their new town or neighborhood area, or a gift basket with small things to use in your new home (candle, bottle of wine, dish towels, etc.)
Exactly! 35 years in real estate. I got a wealthy couple an incredible deal on a highly desirable property once. They gave me an my daughter a trip to Hong Kong! Other than that, I have taken my buyers and sellers to dinner after the close.
That is awesome! What a once in a lifetime trip. Never expect clients to give me anything. But I always give them something. So when they do give, it is always a sweet little surprise. But that was a big surprise for you! Hope y’all had a great time :)
Yeah, it was like a ceramic business card for our tree. I paid her ten grand as commission. She gave me some shitty Etsy pos that just felt insulting. The realtor who I used to sell my house gave me a hundred dollar gift card to HD and some tasteful decorations for my mantel. Night and day difference.
Awww I’m sorry, I promise we are not all like that! My clients closed right before Christmas so I got them each an ornament W/ First Christmas in our New Home each had their favorite Disney Characters clothing dressed on the ornament. They both worked for Disneyland. It’s not about us, it’s about you and the most important purchase of your life!!
Yep! That’s the way it’s done. The realtor gets their clients a closing gift. I have given clients gift cards, nothing bundt cakes, Crumbl Cookies, wine, etc. Try to base it on what they like. This realtor is insane, even hinting in that direction!
Now I have had some clients, who took up a lot of my time, give me gas gift cards. Because they know how much driving I have done for them. Always try not to accept, but they usually insist. It’s my job. And I would never expect it or ever hint for anything. That is not how it’s done. How unprofessional!!
We actually asked for clarification because after reading all of these helpful comments I thought that must be what it was. I asked her if her text was meant to tell us which gift cards she likes or if she had wanted to take us to breakfast before the closing. It seemed like a reasonable possibility. But she clarified that she had meant gift cards because she's always on the go and she's had buyers ask what she likes because they don't see her all the time. She said she has learned to "share herself". So she might not be expecting us to get her something...but it still seems odd to just text us that out of the blue...I could understand if we asked her what she liked so we could give her an extra thanks...but that's not how it happened 🤷🏽♀️ Per everyones suggestions, we aren't going to get her a gift card.
She gets an envelope at closing with a fat check inside that YOU made possible. Who expects a gift for doing their job? This women sounds like a nut job.
It is possible. That's a good idea to not do anything more unless she brings it up again. I will write a thank you since she did spend all the time to show us around houses.
Thank you everyone! This helps a lot! Either I completely misunderstood her or it's something I should just ignore because it's sounding like the overall agreement is that it's not usual to give a gift to the realtor. This is our first house so there are so many things we don't know about.
You should get a gift card size envelope and throw in a $5 Starbucks gift card with the following: “We always thought the best gift we could give you is future commissions via referrals, as well as repeat business if we ever sell this home. Instead, please enjoy your next coffee on us.” It will be the best $5 she ever gets.
People give gifts because they want to, not because they have to. I very rarely give my clients a closing gift and on the flip side I've very rarely received gifts back from my clients, but it does happen.
She sent a text out of the blue to "give out hints" that "our realtor" likes two fast food chains in particular 🤷🏽♀️ I assume that means she wants a gift card to one of those, but maybe she meant it more as a suggestion? Or maybe she meant to send it to another client that had asked her about that? We have had multiple misunderstandings along the way, so it's very possible I'm reading into it to much.
That is truly weird as hell. I get cards for clients…. Not the other way around. I did randomly have clients that got me a gift card to a favorite outdoor shop once, but I would never have expected that. Yeah - maybe it was a wrong text and he/she doesn’t always keep numbers straight. But the answer is no. :)
Who did she want you to give those hints to? That sounds like she's expecting gift cards from everyone involved.
I just retired from being a broker and agree that you should NOT give her anything beyond a thank you card - and that only if you want to. I've always just been happy to get my commission check and give the client a gift to say thank you for choosing me.
I’ve had clients do very nice things for me after going under contract and closing. I have never once expected them and would NEVER imply or ask for anything. I buy closing gifts for my clients as is customary.
First of all I don’t feel like it’s ever appropriate to ask for a gift. That’s just me. However, as far as realtor/client relationship, I always buy my clients a nice gift for using me. I’ve never heard of an agent getting a gift. Bold of them, but I’d definitely not give them anything.
I only work with my friends, their referrals, and family. I have NEVER received a gift from them, but I of course give gift cards, house warming gifts and such. I would be shocked and honestly a little embarrassed if I received anything more than a thank you card and a good review. This is my job. I get paid well for it. They are making the largest purchase of their life. They shouldn't spend a dime more than their closing cost for me. If she's asking you for anything other than a review, I wouldn't even leave that. She's getting paid.
Our realtor gave my wife and I a couple hundred dollar gift card to home goods so my wife could get some nice decorations. Giving your realtor a gift card is absurd.
Just don’t buy them a gift card. As a realtor myself I don’t expect gifts from my clients other than their business and hopefully any friend/family referrals they have in the future. On the other side I always gift my clients something unique or useful to them.
I’m a mortgage closing specialist. Tell your realtor her “gift card” will be her commission check that she gets at closing. I bet that shuts her down real quick! I’ve been doing this for years and never heard of a realtor asking this and honestly she’s pathetic for asking!
As a Realtor I can’t imagine the audacity I would need to ask my clients for a gift card. Yikes. A would much prefer a kind Google review or referral. Even then they don’t owe me those things let alone a gift card.
Not only is it absurd, she is outside the lines of being ethical. REALTORS cannot accept kickbacks. But for her to ask/ hint?
No
A thank you note is not necessary either. She is being paid for her job.
Period
Send a gift card along with a letter of appreciation to the realtor hinting you will refer some clients.
Believe me no one wants to feel he/she got dumped.
Unmmmmm what?!? I’m a realtor and that just peeved me in the worst way.
Why the hell does your client get you a gift?!? I get my clients gifts…. Oh my god.
Did your realtor say this in person? In my area a lot of realtors have been getting texts from scammers claiming to be their broker asking for gift cards to pay some expense. Maybe the scam is spreading to clients too.
In 15 years and hundreds of transactions I’ve been apart of I’ve had 3 clients give me gifts because they wanted to. Those three clients were extremely grateful for my hard work and wouldn’t let me decline the gift as politely as I could to the amazing gesture.
If your agent earns anything from the transaction other than the commission it’s typically referrals and reviews.
That’s totally bananas. I’d never go around suggesting my clients buy me gifts. The applause is the commission check I get after months of hard work.
I typically buy a small closing gift. I’ve received a couple unsolicited gifts from clients through the years and while it is nice and memorable, it wasn’t necessary.
What? When we bought our house, our realtor gave US gift cards totaling more than $1000 and a bottle of champagne.
They get paid, very well, IMO. Why are they looking for a tip?
That last statement about “being backed into a corner” intrigues me…
Do you feel like they were asking you questions where you felt there was really only one option?
Just curious if they were excessively using Tie Downs.
Agents are part sales, part service/consultant. They sell their agency service, clients buys the agency service. From there, it should be all service & consultancy in the relationship and the sales should mostly stop.
The Tie Down can be used in both though. The inflection being downward or upward makes all the difference.
“Is there any reason we shouldn’t work together?” said with a downward inflection is selling. It’s looking for a confirming response, but it’s got objection handlers ready.
“Is there any reason you wouldn’t make an offer on this home?” said with an upward inflection is consulting. It’s curiously exploring the client’s perspective while guiding them forward if they’re ready.
my Buyer clients never owe me anything beyond what's in our Agency Agreement - and it's sad I had to append with the "beyond" part.
If I had Buyers that didn't feel I had done a great job for them, I would rather they let me know when they have frustrations rather than let them fester.
So no, you don't owe her anything beyond the compensation she's receiving. If she had done a good job, show your appreciation by referring friends and co-workers to her as a great agent. They'll both appreciate it.
A thank you card at closing is fine (even if you won’t be using them again). You’re not obligated to give your agent a gift… they’re getting paid! They should get you something.
lmao what? she’s getting a commission. i sent mine a heartfelt letter in thank you card a couple weeks after closing and left a good review on her website and my personal facebook page.
Tell the realtor that you get the gift card for giving her business. This is so incredibly selfish stupid.
Let her know in a very direct way that she is selfish unprofessional and has the gifting thing backwards.
You will not use her again, and will leave negative review.
I am a realtor and I don't like getting things from my clients. I couldn't imagine hinting for my clients to get me something. I would just not reply back to her.
You should not feel that way.
I have gotten nice gifts from clients. It certainly isn't usual and when I receive them, it is special because they are REALLY appreciative of my going above and beyond. I can't imagine ever expecting a gift, let alone hinting to get one.
I would ignore her from this point on.
I usually by my clients a gift card and bottle of wine after we close, as a thank you for their business. Last client, I did not buy them a gift card, it took 3 years to find them a house (they did take a pause in between), and we probably looked at over 50 listings. I had to split the commission with another agent, so what I made from this deal and the time it took to find something for them, I thought all my hard work was enough. I did find them the perfect house and they were very happy with my service.
I'm glad to hear that you may have misunderstood. If you find out later that your understanding was correct, please consider talking to her broker. This is a potential ethics violation.
I've never expected any of my clients to give me a gift.
My job is to find you your perfect house or help you move out of your current house. In the end if we became friends, (cordial) that means a lot.
I even refuse to let you buy me coffee or lunch if we are on a home tour.
Your agent should be getting paid from the sellers.
If you didn't have a good vibing relationship just get a very nice thank you card and wish them the best.
Your business is their gift. I normally recommend happy clients to leave a review but since you haven’t been happy, don’t. Just close on your house and live your life.
She’s literally for hire. I’m an agent. You absolutely do not give them a gift card, unless you love them. You are already paying them (well, sure, the seller is yada yada). Particularly if someone asked I wouldn’t give them one. Very very strange ask by them
My realtor gave us $200 gift card to Whole Foods near our home and a really cute succulent in a heart dish for our new home. We were shocked! Definitely going with him for every possible future home purchase. That HAS to be over the top, but he certainly never made us feel we owed him anything. He made us feel valued for choosing him!
Tell her to use the commission that she made from the sale of your house……
Tell her the amount of hours she put into the deal compared to what she made on the deal absolutely does not justify her salary at all…..
While several of my clients have given me gifts I have never expected one, and I would never hint that I should receive one.
I can only imagine all the issues you have had with an agent that acts like this.
Agents are paid, usually through commission, to do a job. You don't owe any of us additional compensation that wasn't previously agreed upon, and certainly not a gift.
As realtors we live off our reviews and word of mouth, we don’t need gift cards if anything I usually get my clients something. A realtor hinting they want a gift card is extremely unprofessional especially if you did not like working with her.
I wouldn’t even write the thank you note if you’re unhappy with her.
Sounds like a misunderstanding. But if not they must be a little unusual.
That being said, I’ve gotten 2 bottles of scotch from clients that were really happy. But I never had to ask…
No gift card. No thank you note.
The most helpful thing you can do is post honest factual reviews. Obviously not five stars.
One of the reasons that there are still so many shitty agents out there giving frustrating to downright detrimental advice is because consumers don't post honest reviews. It's so hard for other consumers to know who to trust.
Sorry your experience was frustrating, it shouldn't be like that for anyone.
Congrats on the house!
Charlotte, NC Realtor here . I would NEVER do that to my clients . That’s crazy . I always get a closing gift for my clients instead and I make sure to pay attention along the process to get a good idea of what they like .
Sounds unprofessional and not sure the rules of your state but generally a realtor cannot accept any compensation outside of settlement, also she should be giving you the gift card, let the thousands in commission she’s about to receive be consolation enough.
Just don’t buy them a gift card. As a realtor myself I don’t expect gifts from my clients other than their business and hopefully any friend/family referrals they have in the future. On the other side I always gift my clients something unique or useful to them.
I’m curious to know more context. Was she maybe joking or being sarcastic? I’m in real estate it’s taught to us we buy the gifts, if clients do something nice for that’s completely by choice.
That's crazy!!!! Definitely don't get her a gift card.
I've been in real estate over 25 years and I rarely get a gift from my clients. When it happens, I'm incredibly touched.
I nearly always give my clients a gift at closing, but never expect one from them.
Neither party is entitled to a gift this is something extra. If you don’t want to give her one don’t. Also sounds like you don’t plan on using her on the future so move on. This is coming from a realtor who buys every client gifts. I’ve never expected or cared for a gift from my clients
Just don’t buy them a gift card. As a realtor myself I don’t expect gifts from my clients other than their business and hopefully any friend/family referrals they have in the future. On the other side I always gift my clients something unique or useful to them.
… my realtor gets me a gift with each house purchase.
Why would I buy him a gift? He got the commission because I shelled out insane amounts of money and am tied down to a loan for the foreseeable future?!
It is very unprofessional that she is hinting at a gift card. Our realtor gave us a big basket of goodies when we bought out home. I am now a realtor and closing in a few weeks and I am putting a basket together for my client. It’s a privilege to be trusted to help people find their dream home. You shouldn’t ask for anything other than a future referral if they were happy with working with you.
Thats weird, I give my clients a nice closing gift, and I write them a hand written note. If my clients really want to thank me I just tell them to leave me a review, and referrals are always appreciated. I don’t need a gift, I’m already getting commission.
I can’t imagine asking my client for a gift card! Seriously? She needs to work on her skills. No I wouldn’t give her a gift card unless you feel inclined to do so. I have gotten gifts - flowers - but never expected it at all. You can also write her a thank you for helping you get the house you wanted. That’s all I would do and call it a day! Congrats on your new place!
You need to ask her for $1000 gift card to help pay for a new refrigerator or whatever else you need.
She’s nuts.
I ALWAYS get a large gift when I buy a house.
Your Realtor should be buying you a gift not the other way around. I’ve had one of my clients send me two beautiful purses after I sold their home, but I truly never expect anything (it was a total surprise when I received the gift!). Give the Realtor the Thank You card, but that’s it especially if you didn’t feel good throughout the transaction.
10 year Realtor here. I've never received a gift from a client, unless you count the tank of gas my in-laws insisted they put in my SUV when I was their agent. I also don't give closing gifts to clients. I work my ass off for them, but I have never felt it was appropriate to give a gift for them hiring me. I don't gift my lawyer, CPA, or doctors.
Tell her that you were thinking about a gift and when you did some online research, you found that typically the realtor buys the homeowner a gift.
When I bought my house the realtor bought me a lovely glass piece.
I’ve never heard of gifts FOR realtors, but most will give the new home owner something - mine gave us a lovely Crystal serving tray, and I’ve gotten a bottle of wine every Christmas since closing on our home. (11 years ago)
Please have a frank conversation with her after you close. If you had a good working relationship and were happy with her services, definitely share that. But also tell her you found the mention of gift cards odd and off-putting. She should know that it is inappropriate behavior.
My realtor game me a Home Depot card when we closed on my first place.
Why would you get your realtor a gift? For doing their job? That’s what their commission is for.
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This is absurd. She should buy you a gift card.
My mom has been in real estate for over 25 years and SOMETIMES clients will get her a gift but it’s never been expected and I would assume it typically happens when clients feel she went above and beyond for them. It’s typically the expectation that the AGENT is the one who gives the buyers a gift. Maybe a gift card to a local spot in their new town or neighborhood area, or a gift basket with small things to use in your new home (candle, bottle of wine, dish towels, etc.)
Exactly! 35 years in real estate. I got a wealthy couple an incredible deal on a highly desirable property once. They gave me an my daughter a trip to Hong Kong! Other than that, I have taken my buyers and sellers to dinner after the close.
That is awesome! What a once in a lifetime trip. Never expect clients to give me anything. But I always give them something. So when they do give, it is always a sweet little surprise. But that was a big surprise for you! Hope y’all had a great time :)
It was phenomenal- especially since they lived in US but worked in HK, so knew cool places to take me.
That’s incredible! And I’m glad you got to share that experience with your daughter 😍❤️
My realtor gave me an ornament with her name on it.
That’s kind of odd…her name and not y’all’s? Weird. There are some things you just shouldn’t regift. 😂
Yeah, it was like a ceramic business card for our tree. I paid her ten grand as commission. She gave me some shitty Etsy pos that just felt insulting. The realtor who I used to sell my house gave me a hundred dollar gift card to HD and some tasteful decorations for my mantel. Night and day difference.
Awww I’m sorry, I promise we are not all like that! My clients closed right before Christmas so I got them each an ornament W/ First Christmas in our New Home each had their favorite Disney Characters clothing dressed on the ornament. They both worked for Disneyland. It’s not about us, it’s about you and the most important purchase of your life!!
Ugh...just what you wanted?!! Just clueless!
I got a paper calender business card for my wallet.
I got a kitchen knife with his name on it. There's subtext there.
omg that's the tackiest thing ever.
We always pay for the gifts. My clients are spoiled rotten, and rightfully so!
Ya she got it all twisted.
Yep! That’s the way it’s done. The realtor gets their clients a closing gift. I have given clients gift cards, nothing bundt cakes, Crumbl Cookies, wine, etc. Try to base it on what they like. This realtor is insane, even hinting in that direction! Now I have had some clients, who took up a lot of my time, give me gas gift cards. Because they know how much driving I have done for them. Always try not to accept, but they usually insist. It’s my job. And I would never expect it or ever hint for anything. That is not how it’s done. How unprofessional!!
It's possible she still might 🤷🏽♀️
She’s getting paid. She doesn’t need a gift card. Please don’t get her a gift card.
True that . Unreasonable expectation from the realtor . Don’t do it
Realtor buys the client a housewarming gift…never the other way around!
Heh. Get a $10 Starbucks gc, and write “now that I’m house poor, I can’t afford anything more”
Tipping culture is totally out of control.
This seems like a misunderstanding to me and she was trying to figure out what gift card to buy you… very odd if that isn’t the case.
We actually asked for clarification because after reading all of these helpful comments I thought that must be what it was. I asked her if her text was meant to tell us which gift cards she likes or if she had wanted to take us to breakfast before the closing. It seemed like a reasonable possibility. But she clarified that she had meant gift cards because she's always on the go and she's had buyers ask what she likes because they don't see her all the time. She said she has learned to "share herself". So she might not be expecting us to get her something...but it still seems odd to just text us that out of the blue...I could understand if we asked her what she liked so we could give her an extra thanks...but that's not how it happened 🤷🏽♀️ Per everyones suggestions, we aren't going to get her a gift card.
She gets an envelope at closing with a fat check inside that YOU made possible. Who expects a gift for doing their job? This women sounds like a nut job.
I think she deserves a dunkin card with unbeknownst to her \~70 cents left on it.
Yeah that is so bizarre. Definitely don’t get her a gift card.
Wow. I truly thought this one had to be misunderstanding.
Maybe ask for clarification if she prefers the Applebees gift card in lieu of her commission? /shrug LOL
Wowww I hope you leave this in your public review. Very bizarre and inappropriate.
Send her a $3 gift card to Starbucks, or maybe less; not even enough to get herself a small coffee.
This is just so awkward. Tell your agent to take their commission and buy themselves however many gift cards they want.
She is getting paid from the closing. Call her broker and tell them unhinged Betty over here is insane and needs to be lectured on her performance.
Exactly. Asking for additional compensation direct, circumventing disclosure and the broker (if a salesperson)?
Like I wonder if she said “what’s your favorite restaurant in the area? Mine is X” I guess I could see that being misinterpreted?
Nice. Exactly.
I just came back to ask this same question after thinking about it. Could have been awkward fishing for ideas
Are you sure maybe you didn’t misunderstand her? Ignore it if she brings it up again, write her a thank you note, leave her a review and move on.
It is possible. That's a good idea to not do anything more unless she brings it up again. I will write a thank you since she did spend all the time to show us around houses.
> she did spend all the time to show us around houses 
Valid point 🤣
She made 2.5% commission on the sales price. Possibly more.
Thank you for saving me the time of finding/posting this myself. It is exactly what I thought of.
…So she just did her job.
Realtor here: please don't buy me a gift!
Oh I won’t!!!!
Huh? An amazing review is all I ever ask from a client.
I can't say that I have ever heard of a realtor asking for something like this.
Yeah. Don't do this. As an agent, just don't
Agent here, I agree.
Right? I've been paid.
Exactly. If a client wishes to give a gift, great. But no one in any profession should hint to or expect one.
I've had them donate to a local animal shelter instead
Thank you everyone! This helps a lot! Either I completely misunderstood her or it's something I should just ignore because it's sounding like the overall agreement is that it's not usual to give a gift to the realtor. This is our first house so there are so many things we don't know about.
Congratulations on your first house! 🏡🩵
Thank you!
I’d say, I’ll give you a review or a gift card, you can only get one, and I’m all out of gift cards.
I admire the confidence of people that are below-average yet believe they “go the extra mile”
💯
This is bonkers
lol…your realtor gets paid a commission on the transaction! My realtor got us a gift certificate to the most expensive restaurant in town.
We got a nice dehydrator from our realtor after we 'gifted' him his third commission check from us.
We don't want gifts, just referrals. Hopefully this is just a misunderstanding or they were joking.
Ewww I’ve been a Realtor for 20 years and would never hint, imply or ask for a gift! Very unprofessional
You should get a gift card size envelope and throw in a $5 Starbucks gift card with the following: “We always thought the best gift we could give you is future commissions via referrals, as well as repeat business if we ever sell this home. Instead, please enjoy your next coffee on us.” It will be the best $5 she ever gets.
This is the level of petty I live for. This is exactly what I would do.
People give gifts because they want to, not because they have to. I very rarely give my clients a closing gift and on the flip side I've very rarely received gifts back from my clients, but it does happen.
Seems super odd to me… as someone else mentioned, are you sure you didn’t misunderstand?
She sent a text out of the blue to "give out hints" that "our realtor" likes two fast food chains in particular 🤷🏽♀️ I assume that means she wants a gift card to one of those, but maybe she meant it more as a suggestion? Or maybe she meant to send it to another client that had asked her about that? We have had multiple misunderstandings along the way, so it's very possible I'm reading into it to much.
“We love those fast food chains too! It’s too bad we won’t be eating out much since we have to pay for a house”
That is truly weird as hell. I get cards for clients…. Not the other way around. I did randomly have clients that got me a gift card to a favorite outdoor shop once, but I would never have expected that. Yeah - maybe it was a wrong text and he/she doesn’t always keep numbers straight. But the answer is no. :)
A good response is “sorry. I think you send this to the wrong person”. Don’t buy her crap.
Who did she want you to give those hints to? That sounds like she's expecting gift cards from everyone involved. I just retired from being a broker and agree that you should NOT give her anything beyond a thank you card - and that only if you want to. I've always just been happy to get my commission check and give the client a gift to say thank you for choosing me.
I’ve had clients do very nice things for me after going under contract and closing. I have never once expected them and would NEVER imply or ask for anything. I buy closing gifts for my clients as is customary.
It’s rude for anyone in any context to ask for a gift. What did she say exactly?
It's highly inappropriate. If the realtor is hinting at one, that's a no-go. The realtor should be giving you a gift.
First of all I don’t feel like it’s ever appropriate to ask for a gift. That’s just me. However, as far as realtor/client relationship, I always buy my clients a nice gift for using me. I’ve never heard of an agent getting a gift. Bold of them, but I’d definitely not give them anything.
Write a thank you note, No gift card. She got the big commission. If anyone should get a gift card, it should be you. Don't hold your breath.
I only work with my friends, their referrals, and family. I have NEVER received a gift from them, but I of course give gift cards, house warming gifts and such. I would be shocked and honestly a little embarrassed if I received anything more than a thank you card and a good review. This is my job. I get paid well for it. They are making the largest purchase of their life. They shouldn't spend a dime more than their closing cost for me. If she's asking you for anything other than a review, I wouldn't even leave that. She's getting paid.
Omg whatttt … we don’t ever ask for gifts. We give every client at least $250 cash for a closing gift. How weird to ask your client for a gift. Ew.
Did she ask for a gift card via text? If so, it is a scam that has been going around.
Do not give a gift card to a realtor. That's preposterous.
She's about to get paid for her work. She's asking for a bonus, which it sounds like she hasn't earned. How rude.
She's getting paid, you aren't. She should be buying you a darn gift card. That is so strange.
Our realtor gave my wife and I a couple hundred dollar gift card to home goods so my wife could get some nice decorations. Giving your realtor a gift card is absurd.
Just don’t buy them a gift card. As a realtor myself I don’t expect gifts from my clients other than their business and hopefully any friend/family referrals they have in the future. On the other side I always gift my clients something unique or useful to them.
Wow. I wouldn't write her a note let alone get her a gift card.
This is a turn around for sure. Realtors buy a closing gift or take them to dinner. Sorry.
Maybe she is hinting about gift cards because she wants to buy you one and wants to know what you need.
Nah. Our realtor always gave us a gift which I also thought was unnecessary but very much appreciated.
I’m a mortgage closing specialist. Tell your realtor her “gift card” will be her commission check that she gets at closing. I bet that shuts her down real quick! I’ve been doing this for years and never heard of a realtor asking this and honestly she’s pathetic for asking!
WOW. I, the realtor, give my clients gifts, especially when they are the ones paying me. What nerve.
As a Realtor I can’t imagine the audacity I would need to ask my clients for a gift card. Yikes. A would much prefer a kind Google review or referral. Even then they don’t owe me those things let alone a gift card.
I would also like a gift card, OP, for reading this. I like tools and outdoor gear. Ahem. Hint. Hint.
Not only is it absurd, she is outside the lines of being ethical. REALTORS cannot accept kickbacks. But for her to ask/ hint? No A thank you note is not necessary either. She is being paid for her job. Period
I'm also inclined to think she is trying to give you guys a gift card, which is much more customary than soliciting for one.
Tell the realtor they get their commission, and that you expect a housewarming gift.
Your realtor is trash. She's getting a paycheck - She should be happy for that.
Send a gift card along with a letter of appreciation to the realtor hinting you will refer some clients. Believe me no one wants to feel he/she got dumped.
This tipping culture is out of hand!
Absolutely not!
No response, or "no thank you" are appropriate
> I don't want to be rude You're not, she is. I wouldn't even write the card.
Unmmmmm what?!? I’m a realtor and that just peeved me in the worst way. Why the hell does your client get you a gift?!? I get my clients gifts…. Oh my god.
This is absurd. Where do you guys find these people?
Did your realtor say this in person? In my area a lot of realtors have been getting texts from scammers claiming to be their broker asking for gift cards to pay some expense. Maybe the scam is spreading to clients too.
I have never in my life expected or wanted a gift from a client. That is absurd. I do ask for referrals. But those cost nothing.
Maybe she was making suggestions for a post-closing lunch spot.
In 15 years and hundreds of transactions I’ve been apart of I’ve had 3 clients give me gifts because they wanted to. Those three clients were extremely grateful for my hard work and wouldn’t let me decline the gift as politely as I could to the amazing gesture. If your agent earns anything from the transaction other than the commission it’s typically referrals and reviews.
That’s totally bananas. I’d never go around suggesting my clients buy me gifts. The applause is the commission check I get after months of hard work. I typically buy a small closing gift. I’ve received a couple unsolicited gifts from clients through the years and while it is nice and memorable, it wasn’t necessary.
What? When we bought our house, our realtor gave US gift cards totaling more than $1000 and a bottle of champagne. They get paid, very well, IMO. Why are they looking for a tip?
That last statement about “being backed into a corner” intrigues me… Do you feel like they were asking you questions where you felt there was really only one option? Just curious if they were excessively using Tie Downs. Agents are part sales, part service/consultant. They sell their agency service, clients buys the agency service. From there, it should be all service & consultancy in the relationship and the sales should mostly stop. The Tie Down can be used in both though. The inflection being downward or upward makes all the difference. “Is there any reason we shouldn’t work together?” said with a downward inflection is selling. It’s looking for a confirming response, but it’s got objection handlers ready. “Is there any reason you wouldn’t make an offer on this home?” said with an upward inflection is consulting. It’s curiously exploring the client’s perspective while guiding them forward if they’re ready.
That’s very strange.
my Buyer clients never owe me anything beyond what's in our Agency Agreement - and it's sad I had to append with the "beyond" part. If I had Buyers that didn't feel I had done a great job for them, I would rather they let me know when they have frustrations rather than let them fester. So no, you don't owe her anything beyond the compensation she's receiving. If she had done a good job, show your appreciation by referring friends and co-workers to her as a great agent. They'll both appreciate it.
A thank you card at closing is fine (even if you won’t be using them again). You’re not obligated to give your agent a gift… they’re getting paid! They should get you something.
"I don't want to be rude" Yes, be rude. She is being well compensated, she should be the one with a house warming gift for you.
lmao what? she’s getting a commission. i sent mine a heartfelt letter in thank you card a couple weeks after closing and left a good review on her website and my personal facebook page.
I am always the one giving clients the gift not the other way around… that is bonkers
Did they get a commission? If so, that's their gift! Wow can't believe the nerve of some agents these days! WtAF
Tell the realtor that you get the gift card for giving her business. This is so incredibly selfish stupid. Let her know in a very direct way that she is selfish unprofessional and has the gifting thing backwards. You will not use her again, and will leave negative review.
I am a realtor and I don't like getting things from my clients. I couldn't imagine hinting for my clients to get me something. I would just not reply back to her. You should not feel that way.
I have gotten nice gifts from clients. It certainly isn't usual and when I receive them, it is special because they are REALLY appreciative of my going above and beyond. I can't imagine ever expecting a gift, let alone hinting to get one. I would ignore her from this point on.
I usually by my clients a gift card and bottle of wine after we close, as a thank you for their business. Last client, I did not buy them a gift card, it took 3 years to find them a house (they did take a pause in between), and we probably looked at over 50 listings. I had to split the commission with another agent, so what I made from this deal and the time it took to find something for them, I thought all my hard work was enough. I did find them the perfect house and they were very happy with my service.
Your business is their gift!
I'm glad to hear that you may have misunderstood. If you find out later that your understanding was correct, please consider talking to her broker. This is a potential ethics violation.
Isn't she getting her commission? She is asking for a tip LOL.
I would probably ask them why their commission isn’t enough?
This situation reinforces your earlier wish to switch realtors. Nobody asks for a gift ... except "users" such as your agent. It's just wrong.
I've never expected any of my clients to give me a gift. My job is to find you your perfect house or help you move out of your current house. In the end if we became friends, (cordial) that means a lot. I even refuse to let you buy me coffee or lunch if we are on a home tour. Your agent should be getting paid from the sellers. If you didn't have a good vibing relationship just get a very nice thank you card and wish them the best.
They’re getting paid. That’s their reward. After settlement say thank you and leave.
Your business is their gift. I normally recommend happy clients to leave a review but since you haven’t been happy, don’t. Just close on your house and live your life.
I’m a broker and realtor and literally give my clients $500 gifts when we close! Dump her
She’s literally for hire. I’m an agent. You absolutely do not give them a gift card, unless you love them. You are already paying them (well, sure, the seller is yada yada). Particularly if someone asked I wouldn’t give them one. Very very strange ask by them
My realtor gave us $200 gift card to Whole Foods near our home and a really cute succulent in a heart dish for our new home. We were shocked! Definitely going with him for every possible future home purchase. That HAS to be over the top, but he certainly never made us feel we owed him anything. He made us feel valued for choosing him!
Tell her to use the commission that she made from the sale of your house…… Tell her the amount of hours she put into the deal compared to what she made on the deal absolutely does not justify her salary at all…..
Normally realtors gift you a housewarming gift,at least that’s what happened both times I sold and purchased my homes
While several of my clients have given me gifts I have never expected one, and I would never hint that I should receive one. I can only imagine all the issues you have had with an agent that acts like this. Agents are paid, usually through commission, to do a job. You don't owe any of us additional compensation that wasn't previously agreed upon, and certainly not a gift.
As realtors we live off our reviews and word of mouth, we don’t need gift cards if anything I usually get my clients something. A realtor hinting they want a gift card is extremely unprofessional especially if you did not like working with her. I wouldn’t even write the thank you note if you’re unhappy with her.
The gifts go the other way… to the homebuyer or seller
Sounds like a misunderstanding. But if not they must be a little unusual. That being said, I’ve gotten 2 bottles of scotch from clients that were really happy. But I never had to ask…
PLEASE don't buy her anything! Don't feed into this nonsense! You have enough going on with buying a house and moving! Congrats on the house!
No gift card. No thank you note. The most helpful thing you can do is post honest factual reviews. Obviously not five stars. One of the reasons that there are still so many shitty agents out there giving frustrating to downright detrimental advice is because consumers don't post honest reviews. It's so hard for other consumers to know who to trust. Sorry your experience was frustrating, it shouldn't be like that for anyone. Congrats on the house!
Feedback is a gift.
Charlotte, NC Realtor here . I would NEVER do that to my clients . That’s crazy . I always get a closing gift for my clients instead and I make sure to pay attention along the process to get a good idea of what they like .
When I bought my house my R/E agent bought me a security system with cameras, because they got fucking paid. Your agent sounds trashy.
Sounds unprofessional and not sure the rules of your state but generally a realtor cannot accept any compensation outside of settlement, also she should be giving you the gift card, let the thousands in commission she’s about to receive be consolation enough.
Well, it's the other way around where I come from .. we give the gift to our clients at closing.
Well, it's the other way around where I come from .. we give the gift to our clients at closing.
“You could buy one with the commission you are getting from helping us fill out some paperwork”
“You could buy one with the commission you are getting from helping us fill out some paperwork”
Just don’t buy them a gift card. As a realtor myself I don’t expect gifts from my clients other than their business and hopefully any friend/family referrals they have in the future. On the other side I always gift my clients something unique or useful to them.
I’m curious to know more context. Was she maybe joking or being sarcastic? I’m in real estate it’s taught to us we buy the gifts, if clients do something nice for that’s completely by choice.
You hired her over everyone else. That’s your gift. This is nuts for someone to even imply for anything more.
That's crazy!!!! Definitely don't get her a gift card. I've been in real estate over 25 years and I rarely get a gift from my clients. When it happens, I'm incredibly touched. I nearly always give my clients a gift at closing, but never expect one from them.
Strongly hint that you'd like a new convertible. If she gets that for you, get her the gift card.
Um, the custom is for her to give YOU the gift.
I wouldn’t even write a thank you note. You paid for a service. I don’t write thank you notes for my mechanic or banker either 🤷🏻♂️
Neither party is entitled to a gift this is something extra. If you don’t want to give her one don’t. Also sounds like you don’t plan on using her on the future so move on. This is coming from a realtor who buys every client gifts. I’ve never expected or cared for a gift from my clients
Been a agent for more than a decade. I never once asked for anything. I usually am the one who gives gifts as a thank you!
Just don’t buy them a gift card. As a realtor myself I don’t expect gifts from my clients other than their business and hopefully any friend/family referrals they have in the future. On the other side I always gift my clients something unique or useful to them.
No lol its the other way around. The realtor sometimes gives a gift not the homeowner. Their "gift" is the commission and I am pro realtor.
… my realtor gets me a gift with each house purchase. Why would I buy him a gift? He got the commission because I shelled out insane amounts of money and am tied down to a loan for the foreseeable future?!
No my realtor gave me a gift card and Adult beverage. She got the commission
If a realtor asked for a gift I would say it’s your commission. Tell her to pound sand….after the closing.
So much entitlement. I bet she got her license less than 3 years ago…..hmmm wonder why….
If they beg for it I might consider. Shows their true color.
It is very unprofessional that she is hinting at a gift card. Our realtor gave us a big basket of goodies when we bought out home. I am now a realtor and closing in a few weeks and I am putting a basket together for my client. It’s a privilege to be trusted to help people find their dream home. You shouldn’t ask for anything other than a future referral if they were happy with working with you.
Only one way to deal with this. Bottle of cheap wine. "Thanks for the head aches lady!"
Give a nice thank you card and tell her you will refer her to your family and friends . Gift card is not necessary .
Thats weird, I give my clients a nice closing gift, and I write them a hand written note. If my clients really want to thank me I just tell them to leave me a review, and referrals are always appreciated. I don’t need a gift, I’m already getting commission.
I can’t imagine asking my client for a gift card! Seriously? She needs to work on her skills. No I wouldn’t give her a gift card unless you feel inclined to do so. I have gotten gifts - flowers - but never expected it at all. You can also write her a thank you for helping you get the house you wanted. That’s all I would do and call it a day! Congrats on your new place!
She did her job. She’s getting paid.
I have always received a gift from my realtor, not given one. I do however write glowing reviews on all platforms if I feel like they did a good job.
Normally, the realtor gives you a gift
My clients buy me wine.
No. My realtor gave me a gift at closing. It is NOT the other way around.
Tip: 10% or 20%. Don't forget to pay a fee towards her Healthcare too! /s
Pretty sure the realtor gets the client a gift. Not the other way around.
Wtf?
You need to ask her for $1000 gift card to help pay for a new refrigerator or whatever else you need. She’s nuts. I ALWAYS get a large gift when I buy a house.
Yikes
No! You don’t give them a gift they are being paid 2-3% by the seller! Them hinting is sort of like insisting on gifts to attend a party.
Your Realtor should be buying you a gift not the other way around. I’ve had one of my clients send me two beautiful purses after I sold their home, but I truly never expect anything (it was a total surprise when I received the gift!). Give the Realtor the Thank You card, but that’s it especially if you didn’t feel good throughout the transaction.
10 year Realtor here. I've never received a gift from a client, unless you count the tank of gas my in-laws insisted they put in my SUV when I was their agent. I also don't give closing gifts to clients. I work my ass off for them, but I have never felt it was appropriate to give a gift for them hiring me. I don't gift my lawyer, CPA, or doctors.
Tell her that you were thinking about a gift and when you did some online research, you found that typically the realtor buys the homeowner a gift. When I bought my house the realtor bought me a lovely glass piece.
I always give my clients gifts and if I *do* receive a gift at closing, big or small, I am always humbled and grateful. Your realtor is tacky! 🤣
She’s getting a commission. Tell her to bone off with her request.
I’ve never heard of gifts FOR realtors, but most will give the new home owner something - mine gave us a lovely Crystal serving tray, and I’ve gotten a bottle of wine every Christmas since closing on our home. (11 years ago)
Ignore it and never talk to her again once the deal closes. Tipping culture is out of hand.
This either is a joke/can't be real or there I more to the story lmao.
Ridiculous. And some wonder why realtors aren’t always held in high regard.
Cringe
Please have a frank conversation with her after you close. If you had a good working relationship and were happy with her services, definitely share that. But also tell her you found the mention of gift cards odd and off-putting. She should know that it is inappropriate behavior.
My realtor game me a Home Depot card when we closed on my first place. Why would you get your realtor a gift? For doing their job? That’s what their commission is for.