Elizabeth Devlin

Is there a reason you don't want to use a Realtor? There is no cost to you if you use a Realtor to help you purchase a home. Not in WA, pretty sure it's the same in most states. - Tue Jul 1 2008, 16:49

Hi Fran,
Sorry to hear what you have been through and to also have to deal with a Realtor who doesn't sound like he's is really working for you. I have to agree with Charles that sad to say not all Realtors are equal. If you are not happy with him then by all means cancel the contract. Ask around friends and see if they can recommend someone. Don't forget you are hiring someone to do a job for you so by all means interview them and ask lots of questions. Also remember that the price you want for your house may not be what the market says it's worth, ask the agent to get you a CMA and also look at what houses in the area have sold for because in there times that can be a effective way to price your home.

Good luck with everything. - Sun Apr 27 2008, 08:53

Hi Jennifer,
I just got into RE about a month and a half ago and here are a few things I can tell you.

First as I'm sure you know is to make sure you have enough money up front to get yourself financial through at least the first 6 months or more.
Taking the fundamentals of RE is the first step which costs $$'s after that it's more $’s followed by even more $’s being paid out.
Research like crazy the agency you want to join. Put on your consumer hat and check the company website, are they user friendly. Got to the office does the receptionist great you in the way you would won’t future clients to be greeted. Is the office smelly (not as funny as it sounds).
When you meet the broker have questions prepared. What is your market share? how many agents have you? how many agents have you taken on in the last 2 yrs? of those who has stayed and how successful have they been. What do you attribute to their success? And why should I join you and not someone else.
Ask what is the most important thing for you, the bottom line or the education. I opted for the company that would help me with my RE education starting out. knowing that if I learn the job right the $’s will come. Some agencies will sit you down and say here’s your phone here’s your desk and come see me when you make a sale. My company Windermere took the time to show me how to get started and are constantly helping me out so I know I picked a top company. My broker is AWESOME!
I have shelled out a lot of money and every day I get the car it cost for gas so it is an investment. I’m happy that I joined at this time because the market is slower but to me it’s all I know. There are so many, many things to learn that the time has been a blessing. As for making money, don’t be put off by the number of Realtors but be encouraged if you have a good work ethic. I am blow away every day by things I see Realtors do that lose them business, such as putting listings on the MLS and waiting days to put Pictures on or important info. If you like the 8-5 job and getting a pay check each month then real estate is probably not your thing. If you have a passion for real estate and have enough seed money and are prepared to give up week-ends and listen to the pro’s an Joes give you tips. Then you are on the right track, but my biggest tip I would give you is do your homework first and research, research. If you want to chat at all feel free to contact me although we are in different states and things are probably different I can at least talk about being new.

P.S I LOVE THIS INDUSTRY!!!

Good Luck! - Fri Apr 25 2008, 09:50