Janice Doty

Julie-- I would suggest "interviewing" atleast 3-4 agents. Have a set list of questions to ask each and compare answers. Several questions--
what is their average listing price to sold price--just because someone has sold a house (as a Realtor) does not mean they negotiate well. Look for someone who has a ratio of 3-5% difference,this means they priced the property well to start with and are not chasing the market.

Another question-- what is the ADOM (average days on market) for houses they did sell--the higher the number,the more mortgage payments you still have to pay.

What percentage of listings they have taken have actually sold and how many do they currently have represented? Just because an agent can get a listing does not mean they can sell it.

Ask for past client references--how they treat their past clients is a measure of the way they will be treating you.

Are they part of a small or large company? What is the focus on marketing? Does the company provide upgraded listings?

Don't judge the agent by the comission rate they ask--sometimes a bargain is just that.

Best of luck, both selecting your agent and selling your house!! - Fri Nov 14 2008, 05:41

I definitely have had a few clients who want a foreclosure " because it'll be really cheap". I've had to do much education with these people so they understand that if they are really cheap it probably means they are stripped and they will be paying as much or more to fix it up to a reasonable standard. They are better off (most times) paying more upfront and get a quality house. Plus foreclosures come with no warranties and noone to call if something is amiss-like mold. - Sun Oct 19 2008, 16:13

Typical fees would include legal counsel, state transfer fees and some bank fees. Most of the costs incured for a selling a property are those paid for by the buyer --inspections, appraisals, title searches, surveys and legal counsel. This may vary from state to state but generally seller side are minimum. - Sat Sep 20 2008, 17:01

I would strongly suggest interviewing with as many agencies are in the area you want to work in. Make a spread sheet so you compare apples to apples. Just because you get a higher split does not mean you will end up finacially ahead--look for hidden costs like advirtising, lockboxes, office/desk fees. Training/mentoring is something to rate as highly as a great office manager to help you while you learn the business. I truly love Prudential Rand!! Email/call me if you want more info on our company. - Wed Jul 30 2008, 09:40

If you could give me more specifics of age of home--new construction vastly different from an older home, style and size I could let you know what is available and where. Give me a call/ email me and I can send listings, no obligation. I've seen homes from 99K and upward, again it depends on the property and condition. I just previewed a really nice Victorian in need of minor repairs and updating for 150K - Wed Jul 30 2008, 09:17