Debunking the Myth About Real Estate Agents

It is a common misconception. Ask people anywhere and someone will likely tell you they think real estate agents are scammers... crooks..."shiesty". Here's the thing--in any profession, you will inevitably find some that do not uphold the standards of practice set forth. There will always be people who feel as though they are above the law and who choose to act unethically. This is (and will always be) an issue not only among real estate agents, but among professionals in every industry. That being said, I am not guaranteeing that all real estate agents uphold these standards, as people are people and make their own decisions. I can, however, speak confidently about how I, and those I associate myself with in the Bella Casa Realty Group conduct our business. People think that agents have something to gain for talking up a particular house, or for getting them to pay a greater price for the house that they want. People think that real estate agents work out deals among themselves so that the real estate agents work win, instead of the client. These speculations could not be farther from the truth. real estate agents are constantly taught and updated on ethics practices and standards. We are trained to put our ethics above everything else when dealing with clients and working on their behalf. Our job is not only to help you find, offer to purchase, negotiate, coordinate, and close on the house of your dreams. Our job is to put you and your best interests above anyone else's and work with the intent of representing you in the best manner possible with the highest level of integrity. Real estate agents are required to have a form signed by every person we even begin to aid in the home buying or selling process. This document clearly outlines the ethical responsibilities that we, as real estate agents, take on when representing clients. This is called the "Working With Real Estate Agents " brochure. A good real estate agent will happily abide by the ethical standards this brochure details. Please read the following excerpt from that brochure: "If the real estate firm and its real estate agents represent you, they must promote your best interests, be loyal to you, follow your lawful instructions, provide you with all material facts that could influence your decisions, use reasonable skill, care and diligence, and account for all monies they handle for you." It then goes on to say that once you hire them to work for you, "...they may not give any confidential information about you to sellers or their real estate agents without your permission so long as they represent you." So you see, a good real estate agent will go above and beyond to protect you during your home shopping and buying experience. When you win, we win. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride--after all, it's not every day you get to buy a house!