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Posted by  JanetK_CA on 11/5/19 5:24pm
Agree with Lee/AR, as usual. 
I haven't had that problem for a very long time. Partly it's because we're not a table funding state, so there's really no need for RE agent to be there (or LO, for that matter), but sometimes they do show. In those situations, I've found it helps a great deal to preempt the "make them look good" task and do it for them.
Right up front, directly to the borrowers, I offer some kind of compliment about their agent/LO, usually re: making the effort to be there, considering how busy they must be... That seems to defuse any desire to make themselves look important by getting into a pi$$ing match with me. It puts me on their side. Then it's easy to comment that they all probably have lots of other things they need to get to, so ... and I launch into my usual routine to get things rolling.
I suggest being very careful to not say anything that could be taken as a put-down to the agent - especially in front the their client. If something needs to be said to get them to close their trap, then consider taking them aside, if necessary, say whatever needs saying, and do it respectfully. Avoid making them look bad at all costs. (We can be kind while we're being direct.)
As I think LD said, we establish our authority by showing we know what we're doing from the first moment we get there. I don't mean being bossy, but being politely in control. As was previously said, our attitude should show that we're all on the same team. And reviewing the critical documents first generally lets the agent know BOs are in good hands and gets the job done.
However, I do vaguely recall one time that a LO was in attendance and kept offering a comment about nearly every document (it seemed), offering more details than were necessary. I finally said something along the lines of "I know you must have lots of other business to attend to, so we'll understand if you'd like to go into the other room to make some calls. We'll stay focused to get this done quickly but carefully, and let everyone get on with their day. I promise we'll come get you right away if any questions come up." The borrowers joined me in silently staring at the LO, who hesitated before (thankfully) deciding to leave the room. BOs were as thrilled as I was.
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