Lisa Devnew

Hi Michael,

Commission is negotiable. Most likely, if you are paying 2 %, you are using a "discount" broker. If so, be really careful--unless you have a "discount-type" property, you should speak to a full service broker and compare. With that said--if your property is over $1M, then a 2% commission is not entirely out of the realm of possibility. LDevnew@cbmove.com - Thu Jul 24 2008, 08:50

You didn't state whether or not you are using a listing agent. If not, in this market, you really need to. You need as much exposure as possible. You also need to be priced properly from the start. Allowing for a cushion, may come back to bite you in the end. You may be eliminating an entire pool of buyers that may have otherwise looked at your home. If you would like some more explanation, feel free to contact me at LDevnew@cbmove.com. I listed and sold a home in Dundalk in about 3 weeks and that was because we were priced right and were exposed to all the places we needed to be. - Tue Jul 22 2008, 12:11

I just searched and there are hundreds of townhomes (literally) in Howard County and at least 67 in Elkridge. I just wanted to double check because of what the last agent found. I was concerned because I have another buyer interested in this area also and as of about a week ago, there were tons of listings and there still are. I would be happy to help further if you would like. - Tue Jul 22 2008, 08:30

Hi Nagesh,

Congratulations on your upcoming purchase. You are wise to get into this market now as a buyer. There is a ton of inventory so you should have an easy time finding something that will meet your needs. First and foremost you need a buyer's agent. A good buyer's agent will guide you through the entire homebuying process from start to finish. There are often issues that arise long after settlement occurs and this agent should be there to advise at those times as well. I would be happy to assist you in your search if you don't have a buyer's agent. I am not sure how much you already know about the process, but just to let you know, the buyer's agents' commission is typically paid by the seller (good for you!). I can be reached via email at LDevnew@cbmove.com or on 410-615-0990. I hope to speak soon!
Lisa Devnew - Tue Jul 22 2008, 07:58

In all honesty the best way to negotiate with a builder is to hire a buyer's agent and have your own advocate. The builder has "his", that is the salesperson. Builders and salespeople are notorious for making you feel as if they are your agent, but it is exactly the opposite. You need to be sure you are represented by someone who understands how builders operate and are capable of doing the market research to help support your negotiating points. I recently sold a home in Howard County, not far from Clarksville. I would be more than happy to assist. I can be reached via email at LDevnew@cbmove.com or on 410-615-0990
Lisa Devnew - Sun Jul 20 2008, 18:56

You have NOTHING to lose, so why wouldn't you? Who cares what their personal opinion of you is? It should all be about business and nothing else. If you offer full asking price, they would be stupid to reject it based on emotions! Good luck and good for you for sticking to your guns! - Fri Jul 18 2008, 18:43