Cristina John

Diego,
Interview a few companies and ask to see what an average agent takes home at the end of the year after commission splits. Then ask how that company will help YOU grow your business. ...

I meet with Keller Williams.. and Remax... and could not believe how different the fee structure and culture is, My accountant who works with various realtors, was also suprised at how much I kept after commission splits. (He called after I submitted my tax info to him and wanted to know what was missed.)

As a new agent, you will need tools and models to help you get started. Then you'll probably want to re invest your profit back into your buiness. You are welcome to call or e-mail with any questions, I'm willing to share my experience.: cjohn@kw.com or 503. 939. 8201. Good Luck to you! Cristina John - Wed Jul 16 2008, 20:48

Congrats on finishing up the MBA program! I've lived in the porltand metro area 6 years myself. And I would recommend renting for the 1st 6 months...get to know the areas and schools. Not all schools are created equal. Here's more info on schools: http://cristinajohn.yourkwagent.com/atj/user/AdditionalGetAc…

All the best!
Cristina John - Mon Jun 9 2008, 23:04

Alicia,
Great Question. Ask your agent to show you a CMA, for townhomes in the area, that are active, gone pending, and sold in the last 3 months. You will want to look at the numbers, as well as the condition of this home compared to others that have sold in the area.

Also, look at the property, is it on a busy street? Is it next to a commercial building, gas station, etc? Are there any drawbacks that can may make it hard to sell in the future? Is it a fixer?

Additionally, do you want the seller to pay for a home warranty? Closing costs? HOA dues?
These are things to also consider when trying to decide how much you are willing to pay for a property.

Additionally, have your agent pull a Trio, this will show, who owns the property,( is it bank owned?) and how much is owned on the 1st, (typically). - Mon Jun 9 2008, 22:50

Michael,
I would call the buyer's agent and probe... try to find out their motivation for such an offer.

Chances are they are testing the waters to see what your client will come back with.

If I were you I would pull up comps again, just to make sure that you are not missing something that has gone pending or sold recently, and present all options to your client, it is your clients decision as to what they want to do, however, if I were you, I'd suggest that they counter...

Michael, try to create a win-win for both parties, and try not to get emotionally attached to these numbers. We, as realtors, are hired because of our ability to bring a transaction to close. All the best! Cristina John - Mon Jun 9 2008, 22:32

No. Offers must be presented in a timely manner. - Mon Jun 9 2008, 22:18