What’s a Realtor’s favorite bedtime story? The one where the buyer comes pre-approved before touring homes!
Real estate is a wild industry. One minute, you're negotiating million-dollar deals, and the next, you're explaining to someone why their pet llama isn't considered an emotional support animal for HOA approval. Over the years, I've learned that while experience is important, nothing prepares you for the unexpected quite like real-world stories—especially the ones you never forget.
The Million-Dollar Buyer... Or So We Thought
My father, David Poindexter, began his real estate career in the late ‘80s. Back then, there were no online listings, no Zillow, and certainly no digital pre-approval letters. You just had to take a buyer at their word—until you learned the hard way.
One day, my dad got a call from a potential cash buyer looking for a $1 million home. Now, in today’s market, that’s a solid deal, but in the ‘80s? That was big money. My dad, being the dedicated agent he was, spent an entire weekend showing this gentleman luxury homes. After a long search, the buyer finally found his dream home, and they went back to my dad’s office to write up the offer.
Like any responsible agent, my dad asked for a proof of funds statement before submitting the contract. Without hesitation, the buyer proudly reached into his pocket, pulled out a folded-up piece of paper, and handed it over. My dad unfolded it... and there it was:
A $1 million check from Ed McMahon and Publishers Clearing House.
The man had not won the lottery, nor was he secretly a real estate mogul. He just thought that check was real. Lesson learned: If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Why I Always Require Pre-Approval Letters
Fast-forward to today, and you’ll understand why I require pre-approval letters before I show anyone a home. It’s not about being difficult—it’s about protecting my sellers’ time, my time, and ensuring that the people walking through these properties are serious buyers, not just dreamers with a sweepstakes scam in their pockets.
Some agents don’t like that I insist on being present for every luxury showing, but I do it for a reason. I want to be able to highlight all the incredible features of a home—especially the ones buyers might miss on their own. Plus, there’s a strategy behind it.
The Power of a Good Showing
Last year, I showed a luxury home to a Realtor and their buyers. After a full tour, they told me, “It’s just not the right fit.”
Instead of just thanking them and moving on, I asked, “What exactly are you looking for?”
As they described their dream home, I quickly realized I had another off-market listing that checked all their boxes. I immediately took them to see it. They loved it—but they weren’t completely sure.
I knew this house looked even better at night, so I insisted they come back after sunset. When they returned, everything was perfect—the landscape lighting, the pool glowing, the waterfall cascading in the background. That night, they made an offer, and by the next day, the house was sold.
Who You Work With Matters
These stories prove that real estate is more than just transactions—it’s about expertise, intuition, and knowing how to get deals done. Whether it’s spotting a scam before wasting a weekend or guiding buyers to the home they didn’t even know they wanted, experience matters.
So, the next time you’re choosing a Realtor, remember: Who you work with truly makes all the difference.
Wyatt Poindexter - The Agency
405-417-5466 / [email protected]
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
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