How to think RE agents

[whocares]

You are all wonderful with advice, so I am coming with a question about how to thank the two real estate agents who spent a lot of time with me over the past year. Originally we started looking with the intention of buying and then as the economy went crazy switched gears to looking for a rental. Just found a wonderful apartment through a different agent. This apartment is just a block away from one of the original agent's apartments. I need to call her and tell her about finding the apartmentl but feel so awkward about doing it. I know that it is a business relationship, but I feel badly that they weren't the ones who will earn the broker's fee. I also want to give both of these agents a nice gift. I was thinking a gift card to some very nice restaurant here in NY, but would love some other ideas.

[sneezles]

Give the gift card if you'd like but it's still a business relationship and your making it personal just makes the phone call harder.

[LakeMartinGal]

I agree with Sneezles -- unless you really became friends with the agents, it's all in a day's work to not make the sale. A nice card thanking them for their time, and explaining that someone else brought you the deal, should be sufficient.:) Believe me, that's more than most clients would do.

[oskie]

Thank them for their help and mention you'll be sure to pass their names on to any friends who need a real estate agent.

People are always looking for a good RE agent, so if you like the way they worked for you, referrals can get them good business, even if it's not directly yours.