Is the ERA seller's security program a reputible program?

Jahall2007
Home Seller
76248

Our home is 3 years old and in excellent condition, I'm not too concerned with the stringent qualification criteria to enter the program. My question: is the program all that its cracked up to be? Since the 90% figure is based off of an appraisal I'd pay for from an appraiser from ERA's approved list, is there bias with that appraiser? Do I also pay closing costs. I'm curious to what "hidden" costs there may be.

Answers (2)
Bryan Anthony
Broker
Conroe, TX

That's a great question and I am happy to provide an answer. There is no other national company that I know of that offers 90% of appraised value, not even close. We are not permitted to profit from the program so any net profit or gain goes back to you, the Seller. Any net loss if any is absorbed by ERA. The appraisal is a relocation appraisal. It requires an appraiser that has a special designation. Most state certified appraisers are not qualified to do this type of appraisal thus the list only contains appraisers that are qualified to do this type of work. Hidden costs, no. All costs are disclosed in the application and there is no fine print. The 3 costs are appraisal, general home inspection & termite inspection. Any major repairs need to be complete, however, most mechanical, ac/furnace, appliances, electrical and/or plumbing items are covered by our ERA Seller Protection Plan. The closing costs will be the same as whatever is customary in your area. It will be handled just like any other sale. The difference is that we guarantee results!

The key to the SSP is the aggressive marketing plan that goes along with the program. We would prefer to sell the house, not buy it. I can assure you that we work double-time for our SSP clients. I would be happy to send you the application for review. Email: Bryan.Anthony@ERA.com. Good question, thanks. ERA Allstar Properties Bryan Anthony, Broker 936.537.5460

Thu Jul 16 2009, 18:52
Lucy Puniwai
Agent
Keller, TX
FIRST ANSWER

Although as a licensed Realtor I cannot discriminate against any company, I would have some questions
such as: My Buyer's lender will send out an appraiser. The Buyer must use that appraisal if using FHA or VA for funding. When you asked about paying for Closing costs... you would pay your closing costs and perhaps a percentage of your Buyer's closing costs if that is what the buyer's ask for. FHA appraisals are now required to be farmed out to a Central Clearing house because lenders are no longer allowed to have a relationship with an Appraiser.

My company lists home for 5% of the sales price charged to the Seller. ZIP Realty keeps 2% to cover our costs and the other 3% is paid to your Buyer's agent. I sold my last home in 13 days and received 4 offers. My website will let you know how many buyers are looking for a home in your zip code and price point.
I typically hold an Open House within 2 weeks of having your home on the market. My colleagues are required by my company to preview your home within 3 weeks of your home being on the market in order to maximize your exposure.

I live in Keller and would be happy to give you a listing presentation so you can determine which service will get your home sold. Interviewing a couple of Realtors is considered standard in our industry. You will feel confident that you have enough information to make an informed decision.

If I can be of any assistance, feel free to research me at :
http://www.ziprealty.com/agent/lpuniwai

Best regards,
Lucy A. Puniwai
ZIP Realty

Thu Jul 16 2009, 17:51

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