Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Real estate brokers and agents are above all sellers. How can I fully trust them in the technical and legal aspects of a transaction?
Answer: Brokers and agents are much more than a seller. They undergo training in law, real estate assessment, real estate mathematics, contract preparation and writing, etc. They are experts who are pleased and obliged to clearly explain each step in a transaction and the consequences of your decisions.
Question: If my house is sold through the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), do I have to pay an extra commission to the other broker or agent?
Answer: No. Your fee remains the same. Neither are there any extra steps involved in the process. Your broker or agent takes care of sharing fees with his or her colleague.
Question: Are there extra fees if my broker or agent advertises my house through a full gallery of photos or a long virtual tour of the property?
Answer: Your broker or agent will inform you ahead of time of the advertising and promotion services included in his or her offer. Prior to signing your brokerage contract, you will have an opportunity to agree to the range of services required and their associated costs.
Question: How do I avoid bargain hunters, sightseers and intruders who aren’t really serious about buying a property?
Answer: Brokers and agents can spot these types from far off and will prohibit their access to your property. Even during open-house visits, they can separate the serious from the others and avoid wasting your time and theirs.
Question: But why hire an agent? I can save thousands of dollars selling or buying my dream house on my own?
Answer: Unless you’ve had real estate training from a recognized institution, or are an informed accountant or lawyer and have lots of spare time, you’ll have trouble managing all aspects of a property sale or purchase. It can be a full-time job – or a real nightmare. Your broker or agent is there to relieve you of the many complex tasks involved in buying or selling a property. They are experts whose job includes insuring your peace of mind.