What to Do When Square Footage is Incorrect: A Real Estate Guide

When it comes to real estate, the details matter—especially when it involves square footage. But what should a salesperson do if they discover the square footage listed by the seller isn’t quite right? After all, getting accurate information is crucial in building trust and avoiding pitfalls down the line.

You might be thinking, “Isn’t it easier just to correct the listing immediately?” Well, that may seem like the quickest fix, but it’s often not the best approach. The right move is to clarify the discrepancy with the seller first. Why? Let’s break it down.

Why Talk to the Seller First?

Before updating any information, it’s essential to loop in the seller. You may be surprised, but the seller might have documentation supporting their original numbers. You wouldn’t want to miss a critical piece of the puzzle! By discussing the square footage directly, you not only gather the correct data but also maintain a good rapport with the seller.

Think of it like a team effort—you're both in it for the same goal: a successful transaction. Also, if you jump to conclusions and make changes without their input, you might create confusion, which can lead to distrust and potential legal issues. Nobody wants that!

Accuracy is Key: Why it Matters

Now, let’s get into why accuracy in square footage is so important in real estate. Aside from maintaining compliance with real estate regulations, which is an absolute must, accurate listings help build trust between you, the seller, and potential buyers. After all, how would it feel to be misled about a property’s size? Not great, right? It can leave everyone feeling uneasy and could derail the sale.

Inaccuracies can lead to misunderstandings. Imagine a buyer falls in love with a property that has 2000 square feet only to find out later it’s actually 1800 square feet. That’s a significant difference! Not only could it create disappointment, but it could also lead to legal implications concerning misrepresentation. Protecting the interests of everyone involved is key.

Keeping It Transparent

So, once you’ve had that critical conversation with the seller and determined the correct square footage, what’s next? It's time to update that listing. Transparency is your best friend here. Potential homebuyers appreciate honesty and clarity because, at the end of the day, they’re investing their hard-earned money in a place they’ll call home.

Updating the listing ensures that everyone is on the same page, which is not just good for business—it’s also ethically sound. The real estate industry thrives on trust, and by making sure your listings reflect the most accurate information, you’re doing your part to uphold those values.

Wrap-Up: Playing by the Rules

Taking any route other than talking to the seller first could lead to significant, sometimes costly, complications. Whether it’s jumping the gun and changing the listing right away or ignoring the discrepancy, both paths can lead to a mess that no realtor wants to untangle. By adhering to ethical guidelines and licensing laws, you’re not just protecting yourself; you’re fostering a culture of honesty in the real estate market. And that’s what really matters.

In conclusion, remember this: when in doubt, clarify. The open lines of communication will serve you, your sellers, and future buyers well. You’re all in this together—so let’s keep it real and transparent!