General Questions

What is a Realtor?
What is included in the sale price of a home?
How will my agent get paid?
What will my agent do?
Does it make more sense to use more than one agent?

Questions from Buyers

Questions from Sellers

General Questions

What is a Realtor?
A Realtor is a trained professional real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). A Realtor must undergo continuing education and subscribe to an established code of ethics in order to do business. The NAR has an established system of monitoring its members, rewarding their efforts and taking disciplinary actions when needed.

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What is included in the sale price of a home?
Generally speaking, or unless otherwise documented, the sales price of the home includes the house, out buildings and any fixtures that are not easily removed. A handy rule of thumb is to ask yourself: could I easily remove this without a tool? If the answer is "no", it is probably included. It is a good idea to ask your Realtor if you have specific questions. They can find out from the listing agent.

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How will my agent get paid?
Typically, the listing agent is paid a commission from the Seller, who will share this amount with the Buyer�s agent. There are circumstances where a Buyer may wish to employ a real estate agent to work exclusively in their best interests, but in general, the services of a real estate agent are free to buyers since they represent the seller. If there are any fees that must be incurred by the Buyer, your agent will disclose them to you up front. It is important to note that agents only get paid if a property is sold.

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What will my agent do?
Agents are required to treat all parties fairly and honestly. They will give you advice and, when available, show you documentation to back up their opinions. They will not make decisions for you, break the law or encourage you to break the law. By nature of their agreement with the their customer, Agents may not reveal any information that might weaken the negotiating power of the other party.

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Does it make more sense to use more than one agent?
It may seem that the more people you have working for your best interests, the better your outcome will be. In real estate, however, the opposite might be closer to the truth. Because each agent has their own way of working in your best interests, they might conflict with the style and/or timeframe of another agent. Also, by having one person accountable to you, you eliminate redundancy and inefficiency. Remember: you will be forming a partnership with your agent, and that requires personal, one-on-one collaboration.

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