critter paragon: How to Avoid Being Ripped-Off By a Flat Fee Realtor

Sunday, September 16, 2012

How to Avoid Being Ripped-Off By a Flat Fee Realtor | Real Estate

Real Estate | Real Estate | * Written by Jim Shaaown | Friday, 14 September 2012 20:55 | Word Count: 577

The MLS listing has transformed the experience of home buyers and sellers significantly by offering optimal property exposure. As a result, more and more people are turning to the option. Conversely, there is a misconception that dominates the minds of buyers. This is the idea that all flat fee listing services are the same. This is not true. There are many ways that agents misrepresent their offering in an effort to lure clients. It is this fact that makes it paramount for you to do your homework prior to hiring a flat fee realtor.

The most important thing to do when searching for a realtor is to get recommendations. It is not easy to determine the dependability of a real estate agent without listening to what clients have to say. Today, it is easy to get testimonials online. Another option to use is that of seeking advice from both friends and experts with experience in MLS listing. They will offer you firsthand information to inform your decision.

The second thing you need to do is counter whether the flat fee realtor is licensed. To determine the licensure of the agent, use your local State?s Real Estate Commission. The search will help you determine whether the agent is a real realtor and whether he is a member of the local realtor board in your area. Looking at the references of the real estate agents will further clarify their dependability.

Another remarkable way to avoid exploitation from a realtor is to know what you will get in the end before hiring. Contact your agent and know what your role in the entire process will be. Will you be required to follow up the list on MLS or will the agent do all this on your behalf? Before you hire an agent to help with MLS listing, you need to understand what you will be getting and what you will have to do personally.

Taking time to look at the rates offered by different agents can also save you significantly on cost. When it comes to the flat fee services, you must reminder that anything extra in your package will cost you more. In the search for a flat fee realtor, you need to get the final price then use it to compare. Additionally, you need to look at the relevance of services in a package before going with the asking price.

While using the list on MLS, there will come a time when you need a full-service agent. It is crucial that you get the facts straight on what it will cost you to upgrade to full service. Additionally, if the upgrade option is available, you need to gauge whether the MLS listing company is experienced enough for the obligation. If the agent can only handle a small number of clients annually when it comes to full service, you should consider an alternative.

Lastly, as you list on MLS, you will need to talk to the flat fee realtor; not just the salesperson. Discuss every aspect of the deal. You should also inquire on exit strategies and whether there are associated penalties.For more visit http://www.listonmlsbyowner.com/

Jim Shaaown is a shrewd consumer who loves writing on real estate, personal finance and consumer topics such as - mls listing , flat fee realtor and list on mls.For more visit http://www.listonmlsbyowner.com/

Article Source: Article Directory - http://www.freearticleforyou.com

Additional Information on Author Article Directory Author