Tour with surprise guest

As a real estate agent, we are constantly confronted with new challenges. Not only do we have to act as psychologists, mediators and good listeners, we also have to take into account the numerous pets such as dogs and cats. Personally, I am a cat lover, but over time I have become friends with all dogs, as almost every second customer now owns a dog.

I am currently selling a property whose owners have already moved out due to flooding. However, their large dog remained in the garden. When I unlocked the front door with customers the other day, I heard the dog barking loudly. I was quite surprised as I thought the house was empty and wasn't expecting the dog.

My customers immediately took a few steps back and told me to put the dog away. Easier said than done. I had to play the brave one here and went into the garden alone for the time being. The dog, who already knew me, was still barking but took a few steps back himself. I called him by name and walked towards him. Eventually he stopped barking and I was able to let my customers into the property. Fortunately, the dog was scared himself and ducked into a corner.

After the visit, I immediately bought some dog treats. So far, this has worked with all the animals to quickly endear themselves to me.

On the subject of dogs, I have another story from a colleague:

During a property viewing in a cosy detached house, the estate agent prepared for a relaxed tour. The prospective buyers, a young couple, were very enthusiastic about the quiet location and the beautiful interior. Everything went according to plan - until the tour led to the upper floor.

They noticed a huge dog basket in the bedroom, but there was no sign of a dog anywhere. "Sweet, the dog is probably outside!" the interested party remarked and smiled. But no sooner had the words been spoken than a deep rumble sounded from the wardrobe. Before anyone could react, a large German shepherd jumped out, beaming with joy - and promptly pounced on the group.

The estate agent, surprised but professional, smiled and said: "That's our security service - they're just checking to see if you're really interested!" Fortunately, the couple took the situation with humour and after the dog had generously said "hello" to his new "friends", the viewing went ahead as planned.

In the end, it turned out that the dog belonged to a friend of the owner and was only supposed to "wait in the house" for a short time. The house changed hands anyway - and the couple even asked for "visiting rights" for the surprise guest in the purchase contract in case the dog ever came round again!