Rk Ruthman

FSBO's are usually trying to save the expense of having professional representation to sell their property. However, it is not unusual for a FSBO to pay a reasonable fee at closing to an agent if the agent represents the buyer who is purchasing the property.

To avoid commission negotiations being part of the purchase negotiations, the fee should be determined by the FSBO Seller and buyer's agent separately, and prior to negotiating the purchase offer.

Buyer's should be aware that if they sign a Buyer's Representation Agreement, in some agreements, there is a paragraph stating that the Buyer is responsbile for payment of X amount $$ should the Seller not pay the agent's commission. That X amount $$ should be negotiated prior to accepting the service of a buyer's agent.

All real estate commissions are negotiable. - Fri May 9 2008, 14:42

I got to admit that this is an excellent question.

With a smile, I have to ask, "what Buyer wants to be SOLD a house?"

If you want to alienate a potential home buyer... "sell" "sell" "sell"....

I have yet to utter the line, "What's it gonna take to get you in this house today?" and slap the clapboard siding.

I will admit that you are right, some agents are nothing more than a "glorified brochure builders" . But there are others that are "fact finders", presenting interesting information that could make a difference in the Buyer's home buying choice, and price offered.

I am sure many Sellers do not even know that they can ask an agent to be there for all showings. And I bet you there are just as many agents who will have a multitude of answers why they should not be there when a co-operating broker shows their listings.

I have represented Sellers to the fullest capacity. I was there at every showing ready with my facts, and other information I gathered to impress Buyers to respectfully consider the property.

I introduced myself, recited the highlights of the property, and then depending on how the Buyer's Agent wanted to proceed, I either waited patiently for them to finish their tour, or gave them all the grand tour myself...

...I usually took my cue from the Buyer's Agent. My goal is to sell the house, that means I want the buyers comfortable, not rushed, and not feel ganged up on by "real estate agents".

Only if necessary, and always respectfully, I pointed out things the Buyer's Agent might not have touched on, because there is a fine line between discussing the positives of a property (without stepping on the other agent's toes), and being too friendly. You don't want to come across as if you are "bonding" with the other agent's buyers.

...Little known fact, agents are possessive of their buyers,and their Sellers...

...You want to avoid any incident similar to "sticking two Tom Cats in a burlap sack."

Bottom line:

If a Seller feels more confident that the job will get done faster to their satisfaction with his/her real estate professional there, then that should be discussed at the listing presentation before the contract is signed.


RK Ruthman
Ruthman Real Estate
CT & NY Licensee
(203) 400-5355 - Fri May 9 2008, 13:45

Connecticut is somewhat compact, so agents who make the commitment to service surrounding towns can have knowledge and expertise in areas other than the town they reside in.

You always have the option of cancelling a contract, however, read the contract again "thoroughly". Most listing contracts will allow you to cancel, but you are held responsible for any advertising expenses. You would need to speak to the broker/manager. They may or may not release you from your obligation.



Just to give you an idea of what has been happening in your neighborhood (town):

18 properties have SOLD since January 1, 2008. Information taken from Great Fairfield MLS . This does not include For Sale By Owner, or properties listed on any other MLS. See link.

http://cmls.fnismls.com/publink/default.asp?GUID=782e9e3a-37…

Presently in Bethel, there are only 134 Active Listings showing.

Status As Such: (May 9 @ 11:00am)

107 Active Listings.
1 Back on the Market Listing
11 New Listings
10 CTS (Continue to Show - Have accepted offer with contingencies)
5 Reduced Priced Listings

There are no Pending.

RK Ruthman
Ruthman Real Estate
CT & NY Licensee - Fri May 9 2008, 08:20

There is an eclectic range of properties in Connecticut that fall into "modernist style". It depends on the "ultra unique" features you would prefer. These homes do not sell as fast as the quintessential New England Colonial, but nonetheless have pizzazz and personality because of their amazing architecture.

RK Ruthman
Ruthman Real Estate
http://www.RuthmanRE.com
CT & NY Licensee
15 Years Experience - Thu May 8 2008, 13:32

Look online for properties that are for sale RIGHT NOW in your area that are using Flat Fee or Discount Brokers. Visit the property, or call the owner. Ask the Sellers if they are satisified with the price and service. Go directly to the source. You want first hand information to make an educated decision on what is the right choice for you. - Thu May 8 2008, 13:05