- 58 Answers
- 1 Best Answer
- 10 First Answers
- 40 Useful Answers
Qualifications and Education
Full Time Agent Since 1991
Graduate, Realtor Institute (GRI)
Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR)
e-PRO, National Association of Realtors' technology designation
Iona College, New Rochelle, NY
American Academy of Dramatic Arts, New York
Distinctions and Awards
Top Producer (Office) 2004 (2nd), 2005 (3rd)
Numerous Production Awards over 16 Years
Dutchess County Association of Realtors Recognition Award for both 2004 and 2006
Certified Real Estate Instructor, State of New York
Graduate, Instructor Training Institute
Technology Trainer for Houlihan Lawrence
Teaching Staff, Dutchess County Assoc. of Realtors
Member:
Dutchess County Association of Realtors, Mid-Hudson MLS, Westchester/Putnam MLS, New York State Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors, REBAC, New York State GRI Chapter
""We really enjoyed working with you
and you really made us feel relaxed in our decision making. I have
already been passing your information around because of how much we
enjoyed your work ethic.""
Mary and Joe Sun Jul 1, 2007
""In this market a good agent is a huge asset. Your suggestions, recommendations, honesty, and professionalism were extremely valuable to complete the sale in the timeframe we did. Thanks for all your help.""
Joe S. Sat Sep 1, 2007
""I just wanted to thank you again for all of your hard work in selling our house. It was a pleasure working with you. You were pleasant, knowledgeable, patient, and persistent. We would recommend you to anyone. We would be happy to be a reference for you.""
Michelle and Kelly Mon Oct 1, 2007
""On behalf of Beth & myself, you have been very helpful through this process for what we know is not a very large commission. Your attention to detail allowed me to not have to focus on this at a very busy time in our lives. I am sure you will be there for us when we ultimately try to
sell this home, and we look forward to keeping in touch with you. If you ever need a referral from a potential client, or a glowing review to your office manager, we are here.""
Rick and Beth Tue Jan 1
""(Tammy) offered constructive feedback on inexpensive (or free) improvements we could make to improve the way our home showed. However, she was never pushy or demanding. As first-time home sellers, we were nervous about selling, and in need of guidance on the ins and outs of selling a home, from pricing to the logistics of simultaneously buying and selling. Tammy was always there to answer our questions and offer advice. She had such a wealth of experience she shared with us, but again, she NEVER made us feel forced to take her advice.
Tammy’s instincts as an agent are remarkable. She suggested that we keep our home on the market through the winter months, even though I had grown disheartened (it was a REALLY bad sellers market). She felt that, come spring, there would be more townhouses on the market – and thus more competition for the limited number of buyers out there. So we forged on. Within a week of taking Tammy’s advice, we had several showings in quick succession, followed by a couple of purchase offers. After we sold our townhouse (in February), we saw dozens of new for sale listings pop up in our old neighborhood.
It was a true pleasure working with Tammy. I’m really at a loss to express how grateful I am to have found her. She made the stress of selling a home much more manageable than I thought possible. She was always there with encouraging words and excellent advice, but never pushy or demanding. Plus, Tammy has such a pleasant, friendly demeanor that it’s not really like working with her – she feels more like a partner.""
Kelly and Bob Tue Jan 1
Tammy C. Ben
's Questions (6)
Tammy C. Ben
's Answers (58)
Tammy C. Benkwitt answered:
I agree. You signed a contract of sale and are committed to what it says unless your attorney can find you a way out.
But consider this. If you were to start looking for another buyer, you are no further ahead than where you are now. When the buyers indicated they were putting down 30%, they probably meant they planned on getting a 70% mortgage. I've seen very few people willing to tie up that much money in escrow when it could be earning interest somewhere. Does the buyer need to close on another property in order to buy yours? That could be holding things up as well.
Have your attorney's office speak with the buyers lawyer to get an assessment of where the buyers stand. Be prepared to be a little flexible.
Best of luck! - Sat Nov 15 2008, 15:59
Tammy C. Benkwitt answered:
Agents are prohibited by law to discuss commissions with each other or to comment about an "average" commission. There is no average or going rate when it comes to commission. Commissions are always negotiable.
Each company offers it's own level of services and qualifications . Interview some firms and find out what you will get for your money.
I think you were stating that the property is worth approximately $20 million. How do you know? In any case, that type of investment certainly demands care and due diligence, It is worth your time to investigate a couple of companies and ask many questions. - Thu Oct 23 2008, 09:30
Tammy C. Benkwitt answered:
Anyone can purchase a property that has liens on it, as long as they are willing to assume all the risks that go with it including foreclosure. Your question just referred to "lis pendens" and did not specify what court action was pending. If your son owes money on his mortgage, there may be a way he can resolve it himself without you having to get involved. Both of you should consult an attorney before expending any money on this venture.
Sincerely, best of luck. - Mon Oct 20 2008, 10:20
Tammy C. Benkwitt answered:
Thanks for getting up so early in the morning to organize it! Webinars are a good way to convey information efficiently, so it was helpful. I have to give Barbara points for trying! Too many people push away the technology upon the first bump in the road. At least she had the patience and determination to hang in. Thanks again! - Fri Oct 3 2008, 04:42
Thanks, Emily. I held onto the call for several more minutes and it eventually started. The organizer apologized for the technical difficulties and we proceeded forward. Thanks again for getting back to me. - Thu Oct 2 2008, 10:43
Tammy C. Benkwitt answered:
In New York State, only licensed salespersons or brokers may accept referral fees. I know this has been said previously, but I am adding my voice to the crowd anyway.
Tom, if we don't police ourselves, someone else will. Which would you rather have? I think your reply was a bit harsh and not necessary. She was only asking a question.
Jolie, it's simply the law. Nothing really to discuss in my view. But I appreciate the question. - Thu Sep 18 2008, 04:20
Certified Real Estate Instructor, State of New York
Graduate, Instructor Training Institute
Technology Trainer for Houlihan Lawrence
Teaching Staff, Dutchess County Assoc. of Realtors
Top Producer (Office) 2004 (2nd), 2005 (3rd)
Numerous Production Awards over 16 Years
Dutchess County Association of Realtors Recognition Award for both 2004 and 2006