Knowing how the real estate industry is set up as well as some basic awareness of how agents do their jobs is important for you to understand.  In this way, you will be prepared to foster a productive relationship with your agent, and together find a house you can call home.

A most common assumption among buyers is that they must call EACH realtor listed on EACH sign from EACH property they want to see.  This is not true, but many do not know or understand how Realtors work and hopefully this will explain that.

When a buyer – YOU – initiated a call or an email to me about one of my listings, at some point I’ll ask if you are presently working with another agent.  The reason for this is so that I don’t interfere with that relationship.  If you aren’t being represented by someone, or haven’t chosen someone to help you then I am ready and able to show you the home.

One of the first steps you need to take is to find a good real estate agent.  That agent should be someone you can relate to and can be comfortable with, someone who understands your needs and has the expertise and know-how necessary to help you find that perfect home.  It is my hope that through our meeting today I am “that person”, even if the particular home we looked at isn’t right for you.  I can show you any home that interests you regardless of who is listed on the sign.

Real estate agents are not salaried or hourly workers.  They are paid on commission only when a house is bought or sold.  Commissions are negotiable between the agent who lists the home and the seller.  Some brokerages offer commission discounts for sellers, but a typical commission is 6% of the sales price and is evenly split between the buyers’ agent and the listing agent.  Buyers can attend any Open Houses they’d like to see without their agent being present.  The agent hosting the open house may have you “sign in” as a security and courtesy measure to the seller.  Be sure to tell the listing agent that you are already with an agent to avoid any confusion later on.

As your agent I will work hard to keep you, the client, satisfied.  Why?  Simply because I want to work with you until we find the home within your price point, meets all or most of your criteria, and where you will be happy.  That said, be clear about what service levels you expect so that I can adapt to your needs.