Every industry has a few myths. Look at science – according to myth, if you’re a scientist, you’re also a lone wolf and a geek. Now, I’ve known many scientists, and they were anything but. I was a Biochemist, but my friends and family will have to decide whether I am a geek or not. Tampa real estate agents carry around a few myths of their own, passed around from homeowner to homeowner since the dawn of time.

Myth #1: Every agent drives a brand new, high-end car. Most Tampa Real Estate Agents drive older or modest cars. Yes, after the agents have been in business awhile, and  if they are successful they can often afford a new car and sometimes a high-end car, that is not the norm.

Myth #2: Lenders and inspectors give agents kickbacks. Not unless those lenders, inspectors and agents want to go to jail. You see, in 1974, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act was passed. The RESPA says receiving or giving kickbacks is illegal. I don’t know about anybody else, but I’d rather keep my real estate license.

Myth #3: Agents make a lot of money. Those that pass this little myth around have never asked an agent. Once all of our fees are paid, such as MLS fees, overhead, splits with the offices, insurance and other expenses, agents average a salary of around $36,000. Of course the top agents make more but a large percentage of agents earn much less. For those that don’t know, middle class is somewhere around $75,000 and above.

Myth #4: Agents will say anything to get a sale. Some agents might lie to you, but most won’t. Personal reputation is especially important in the real estate business. An agent with a reputation for lying soon ends up out of work or without a license.   Most agents, like me, are in this business because we love to work with people and want your referrals to friends and family. We will likely not get a referral if we do not do a good job.

Myth #5: The higher the sale price, the more agents make. Many think that agents would be ecstatic if they sold a house for $10,000 more than expected because of their real estate agents' commission. If they are, they’re ecstatic for the client, not themselves. While the seller makes around $10,000, the agent makes about $150. With today’s prices, $150 doesn’t go very far and certainly isn't worth comprising their integrity.

The next time you think about Tampa real estate agents and everything you know about them, consider where you got the information. Is it something that “everybody knows” or something you know from experience?

If you’re looking for a professional agent who puts your needs first, you've found him.  To learn more about me and the services I offer, visit my website at www.MakeTampaYourHome.com.