Let’s be honest. Our parents are always looking out for us even when we don’t know it. They have cared for us and given us advice for many, many years. It is not surprising that you would like their advice when you buy your first home. It is likely that they have purchased a home before and they will be honest with you.

I’m not sure if my clients realize that I’m always listening to them for recommendations. If they mention their great handyman, I immediately ask for his name and number. When they give me a tour of the great bathroom remodel they just completed, I inquire about who helped them with design or tile work. And, when a client passes a pizza shop and says, “This is my favorite pizza.”