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I Got This Question: “Are You a Good Real Estate Broker”?

By
Managing Real Estate Broker with Maxus Realty Group of Samson Properties Broker - Realtor - CEO

real estate agent

I got this question out of the blue. . "Are You a Good Real Estate Broker"?

First, let me explain to you what is the difference between a real estate broker and a real estate agent?

The term real estate agent is generally applied to both real estate broker and real estate salesperson. Typically, a real estate salesperson must accumulate several years of experience and pass the licensing exam before being officially designated as a broker. A broker has more responsibilities if they are the designated broker of a Real Estate Office

What is the real value of hiring a real estate broker or a real estate agent ?

It is a fact that they both can assist you in the process of either buying or selling a house. A good broker/agent would know how to get proper financing, prepare your home for inspection and help you until the closing date. The value you get is their experience and know how to make the transactions as smooth as possible while protecting you at all times. Essentially, a broker may have an upper hand in negotiation details about your transaction over an inexperienced real estate agent.

Where can you find a good Real Estate Broker?

I really hope you don't have to look any further but. . just in case, the best sources of information on where to find a good real estate broker are your friends and family who recently purchased or sold a home. A good indication of a dedicated broker is the one who returns your calls immediately. Ignore those who can't seem to find the time to call you back, no matter how good they maybe. .communication is a key ingredient in achieving success in real estate.

Other source of information is the internet. The good brokers will have a strong presence in the Internet. Check their blogs, their websites and videos. That should give you a good indication if they are a match to what you are looking for. Another way, a little old fashioned but still important is to visit open houses in your neighborhoods, as this is also a live representation to show you what they are all about.

BrokerHow much a GOOD BROKER Should Cost You?

Before establishing any formal business relationship, you must determine just how much the broker will charge you. Generally, a good broker should not charge you if they are on the buying side. Sellers are generally the ones that picjk the tab up for you. Beware of "extra" fees inside some real estate transactions.. .as some brokers ask for fees when handling documents, apart from the agreed commission.

If you are selling, a broker's commission is fully negotiable. Be careful when negotiating what commission to pay and you may feel happy to get the upper hand. It is the same way after all. . how they will negotiate the price of your property with other brokers. If they are easy reducing a commission, they will be easy selling your property for the least amount of money.

Always make sure that the broker's personality fits your own, as you will become his/her friend during the experience… you will be spending a lot of time during the whole buying or selling process. If you can quickly establish faith and trust with your broker, then you know you have found a good one. A good broker should make you feel more important than even their own selves. A good broker will treat your transaction as urgent. Like you are their only client. Logically, a full-time broker or real estate agent is much preferable to one who just works part-time.

The Signing Of Exclusivity with your Broker/Agent

You may avoid hiring a full time broker when you first start the process. . but eventually you will be best served when you sign an exclusive agreement. Even the best Broker/Agents have their limits how many people they can work with at any given time. Their time and attention could save you thousands of dollars. They want to be fully engaged with you and assurance that they will get paid when services are rendered. . an exclusive agreement should do the trick.

But you also have to be careful and avoid brokers who ask you to sign exclusivity contract for several months. You should ask for a trial period and an acceptable end of contract if you perceive a less than desirable service.

As an example, we have a listing agreement that will not shackle you to us. . .you hold the key. If we don't perform, you can fire us at any time.

We never had one that fire us so far. . why?

Because we are confident our services are exactly what you were looking for. .and we risk it all to prove it!

 

If you are selling, you should really read this: So, you have a listing appointment with me?

If you are buying Foreclosures, you should really read this: 10 Secrets You Should Know Before Buying a Foreclosure

Are You Ready to buy a home? This is the First Thing You Should Do

What is Your Debt-To-Income Ratio? Why is this important?

3 Benefits of Having A Realtor Represent YOU!

Beware of being fooled by Home Staging!

Do you really understand how a Real Estate Buyers Broker Really Work?

 

I appreciate your consideration,

Fernando Herboso

Broker for Herboso & Associates

Real Estate Agent

Cell: 240-426-5754

 

Herboso & Associates 13106 Commodore Ln Clarksburg, MD 20871 Phone: 301-968-0555

www.ReallyNiceHomes.com

 

Tammy Lankford,
Lane Realty Eatonton, GA Lake Sinclair, Milledgeville, 706-485-9668 - Eatonton, GA
Broker GA Lake Sinclair/Eatonton/Milledgeville

I agreed with most of your points, but I don't take a listing for less than 6 months.  I spend a LOT of money per property on marketing.  I want a listing for at least the average days on the market. 

Mar 26, 2012 11:42 AM
Clint Mckie
Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections - Carlsbad, NM
Desert Sun Home, Comm. Inspection 1-575-706-5586

Hi Fernando.

If I was asked if I was a good Real Estate Broker. The answer would be no. But if they asked any agent, I would think the answer would have to be a resounding "YES". Do they expect for every one to tell the truth?

Even if they are not that good at what they do they still would say yes.

Do I sound like I'm being scinicle? I do like the approach you have to selling homes.

Best of luck, Clint McKie

Mar 26, 2012 11:56 AM
Hella Mitschke Rothwell
(831) 626-4000 - Honolulu, HI
Hawaii & California Real Estate Broker

Fernando: Not all agents become brokers. These agents feel most comfortable working under a structure set up by a broker. An agent HAS to work under a broker and his license. For marketing purposes, most agents work under a BRAND NAME.  And then there are the independent brokers like me and you who like to make their own decisions and I think we give clients the most flexibility.  

Mar 26, 2012 11:59 AM
Debbie Laity
Cedaredge Land Company - Cedaredge, CO
Your Real Estate Resource for Delta County, CO

This is a great blog, and first time home buyers should get a lot of information out of it. It's funny...today I had to explain the difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR®.

Mar 26, 2012 12:30 PM
Jessica Holtzman
Keller Williams Realty, Inc. - Moorestown, NJ
Real Estate Agent in Southern New Jersey

I mean really, what do you say to that? LOL.  I like your real signature in the blog! 

Mar 26, 2012 01:57 PM
Gary Woltal
Keller Williams Realty - Flower Mound, TX
Assoc. Broker Realtor SFR Dallas Ft. Worth

Well written Fernando. Just tell them you are the best.

Mar 26, 2012 02:01 PM
Conrad Allen
Re/Max Professional Associates - Webster, MA
Webster, Ma, Realtor

A really good agent can save the seller money.  My list to sales price is much higher than MLS averages.

Mar 26, 2012 08:31 PM
Fernando Herboso - Associate Broker MD, & VA
Maxus Realty Group of Samson Properties - Clarksburg, MD
301-246-0001 Serving Maryland, DC and Northern VA

Thank you guys for stopping by. .

Mar 26, 2012 10:57 PM