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Answers (26)
Best Answer
- RKRubin
- Contributions:6
WE SAW THESE http:///www.youtube.com.user/realestateconfession.com http://www.realestateindustrywhistleblower.com WWW.savvybroker.com www.Realtorssucks.com The Consumers know EVERYTHING NOW..
- NTETS, "Mr Caveat"
- Contributions:6436
"Unfortunately, I don't find this to be true. A large segment of consumers are actually woefully ignorant, especially considering the access they now have to information."
thumbs up!
it is amazing how little most people understand about most everything.
thumbs up!
it is amazing how little most people understand about most everything.
- real estate mike
- Contributions:2001
I am not insecure as a Realtor. I know what I bring to the table. The average commission last I read was around 5.4%. Reading some info on the net does not make anyone savvy about marketing or purchasing property. I love the physician reference; it reminds me that drug companies think the public is supposed to go to their professional and tell them which drug they want because they saw a 30 second commercial. It either obviously works as a marketing tool or they just need a write off. I know and understand that some people are better off renting than owning. Also a small percentage of people can successfully market their property without any real estate agent whatsoever. In a strong sellers market it becomes much easier to market a house. Some people need my assistance; some don't.
- SoCal_Engr
- Contributions:5684
"Yes, you can buy or sell without a professional, but i don't advise it at all. It is like having a operations without a doctor, or going to court without an attorney. Hiring a professional is important. If you don't have the experience don't do any transactions without a professional."
Is the doctor/lawyer example something that teach as part of the NAR indoctrination? The metaphor is extremely weak, and breaks down very quickly. It also makes you all look desparate to validate yourselves through some tenuous alignment with professions requiring a significant amount of generalized and specialized training, as well as commitment and intellect.
Jkonstant has a much more defensible, and marketable, premise. Time is the one currency people cannot make more of, so it ends up being very valuable to most.
I can fill out forms, and I can read the guides. If it is possible to develop software that allows me to do my own taxes, including deferred capital expenses, and pass IRS audits (using online software), what makes you think RE contracts or so far out of the realm? (Note to self, check to see if anyone has developed TurboForm.)
- Michel Bergier, Ph.D., MBA, "The Taber Team"
- Contributions:96
You can buy and sell real estate on your own. You can invest on your own. You can paint your house on your own. You can decorate your house on your own. You can cut your hair on your own. You can fill out your taxes on your own. You can defend yourself in court on your own. You can do a lot of things on your own. You can also screw it up royally on your own. Agents are experts and it makes sense to use their expertise. Ask any do it yourselfer and they will tell you that sometimes they wish they would have asked someone with expertise to help them.
- SoCal_Engr
- Contributions:5684
"Buyers and Sellers these days are VERY SAVVY"
Unfortunately, I don't find this to be true. A large segment of consumers are actually woefully ignorant, especially considering the access they now have to information.
But to your original question, how else do you expect them to act? Do you really expect them to tell people that they are extraneous to the process and sucking up 6% for very little return?
In fairness, there are some people who need all the help they can get. Others actually find some value in having others take care of process and paperwork. The less secure an agent is about the value-add they personally bring to a transaction, the more likely they are to pull the "we know things you don't" line. In some cases, they're actually right. For the majority of RE transactions, given competent consumers, you're probably right.
Unfortunately, I don't find this to be true. A large segment of consumers are actually woefully ignorant, especially considering the access they now have to information.
But to your original question, how else do you expect them to act? Do you really expect them to tell people that they are extraneous to the process and sucking up 6% for very little return?
In fairness, there are some people who need all the help they can get. Others actually find some value in having others take care of process and paperwork. The less secure an agent is about the value-add they personally bring to a transaction, the more likely they are to pull the "we know things you don't" line. In some cases, they're actually right. For the majority of RE transactions, given competent consumers, you're probably right.
- Jeff Boswell, "Jeff W.Boswell"
- Contributions:89
Go ahead if you think you can do it yourself; maybe you can. I had a flat tire yesterday, and I could have changed it myself, but I didn't want to. I called a local garage, and they sent someone to change it for me. I paid $40 for their service, and was happy to do so. There are people who don't want to try to buy or sell alone. It's up to them if they want to pay for the service provided by a real estate agent, or Realtor. I closed a house today, and the buyer commented during the closing she was glad she contacted me to help her because I introduced her to a community she did not know existed, and said if she had found it she would have written it off because it was near apartments. I encouraged her to look, she did, and she bought. To her my service was very valuable. And for an agent like myself that has been selling homes for 25 years in the same maket...yeah, I do know a few secrets.
- Drew Ludlow, "DrewLudlow"
- Contributions:505
If you would like to call 20 different listing agents and make 20 different appointments at 20 different times and 20 different schedules... go ahead. Or, call one Buyers Agent to make all the appointments for you, on your time.
Do you have the experience to negotiate the intrusion of moisture in a crawlspace? Do you have a readily available list of service providers who will do you a favor and examine structural issues, rotting siding, HVAC repairs etc?
Have you bought and sold enough homes to know and understand the delicate timeframe of a purchase transaction?
Do you personally know many of the listing agents - with whom you can have personal and professional conversations with to understand the needs and wants of your sellers or buyers?
If you don't need us, that's fine. An attorney is going to charge you an hourly rate to write up a contract. A contract with which he may or may not be intimately familiar with. But ask how many times that attorney has actually negotiated that contract with a listing agent or buyer. Attorneys are essential in a real estate deal. But they do not write and negotiate contracts daily.
Realtors do these things every day. We know the ins and outs. Sure, you can learn it, but at what expense?
It does sound like you had a bad experience and are generalizing those experiences over the sum of all real estate professionals.
Good luck to you!
Do you have the experience to negotiate the intrusion of moisture in a crawlspace? Do you have a readily available list of service providers who will do you a favor and examine structural issues, rotting siding, HVAC repairs etc?
Have you bought and sold enough homes to know and understand the delicate timeframe of a purchase transaction?
Do you personally know many of the listing agents - with whom you can have personal and professional conversations with to understand the needs and wants of your sellers or buyers?
If you don't need us, that's fine. An attorney is going to charge you an hourly rate to write up a contract. A contract with which he may or may not be intimately familiar with. But ask how many times that attorney has actually negotiated that contract with a listing agent or buyer. Attorneys are essential in a real estate deal. But they do not write and negotiate contracts daily.
Realtors do these things every day. We know the ins and outs. Sure, you can learn it, but at what expense?
It does sound like you had a bad experience and are generalizing those experiences over the sum of all real estate professionals.
Good luck to you!
- Shannon Myers-Coan, "Shannon Myers"
- Contributions:135
Ok, I have to say something about this. Yes I know there are people whom feel they do not need an agent, I get that. Some people can do the entire process themselves getting the paperwork done, the negotiations, the inspections and all. I get that.
The one thing missing is the help. My clients have (used) me not in a bad way, to get through the process. They may need reassurance, some one to help them destress or guidance, an extra pair of eyes during the walk through, a babysitter during inspections or closings, a friend that will tell them that it is ultimatley their decision. We bond during this process, we talk daily for at least 30-60 days. As far as sellers they may not have time to deal with showings, advertising, and such, it can be stressful. Yes this is how I support my family, but my morals and ethics are more important than a sale. Most of my past clients are friends, I know their kids, their hobbies, and I am happy for them. So yes you are right that you can do it on your own, but I hope that I am helping clients and that they love their new homes that is better than the commission split... Ok off my soapbox :)
The one thing missing is the help. My clients have (used) me not in a bad way, to get through the process. They may need reassurance, some one to help them destress or guidance, an extra pair of eyes during the walk through, a babysitter during inspections or closings, a friend that will tell them that it is ultimatley their decision. We bond during this process, we talk daily for at least 30-60 days. As far as sellers they may not have time to deal with showings, advertising, and such, it can be stressful. Yes this is how I support my family, but my morals and ethics are more important than a sale. Most of my past clients are friends, I know their kids, their hobbies, and I am happy for them. So yes you are right that you can do it on your own, but I hope that I am helping clients and that they love their new homes that is better than the commission split... Ok off my soapbox :)
- Jeff Konstant, "jkonstant"
- Contributions:1970
OK, first of all, we need to stop making the medical and legal comparisons. They are a poor and ridiculous exageration of what we do. Our job is simple to us because we do it every day, many of us for many years. Really, that is it. This is the value we bring and for some reason we keep making irresponsile and suggestive comparisons to the medical and legal professions. Buying or selling a home is not even remotely similar to undergoing a triple bypass. We have information, access and a host of tools at our fingertips to make the process easier. What is so wrong with sticking with a simple answer to what it is we bring to the table? I am not necessarily going to save you money, but I will very likely save you time. In so doing, it will cost you X dollars. I will probably be more experienced in guiding you and resolving some issues should they arise, but by no means are my services as important as a doctor, lawyer or even a fireman.
- Greg Rayford, "AtlantaReal Estate"
- Contributions:22
Yes, you can buy or sell without a professional, but i don't advise it at all. It is like having a operations without a doctor, or going to court without an attorney. Hiring a professional is important. If you don't have the experience don't do any transactions without a professional.
Great answer Mike!
He's just stuck to his computer playing pong.......(and losing)
He's just stuck to his computer playing pong.......(and losing)
Just get a Real Estate Lawyer to do the paperwork for you.
- Michael Emery, "MikeEmery"
- Contributions:7307
Actually Nic I see about half of 2.7 percent or 1.3 percent - less expenses you probably don't have as part of your business.
That's about how much YOU make to do a loan - and you're not stuck in a car for hours on end.
That's about how much YOU make to do a loan - and you're not stuck in a car for hours on end.
- Nic Netherton, "Colorado Lender"
- Contributions:7219
"Why do Agents acts like the Home buying or selling can't be done without them?LOTS of tools nowadays "
So they can try to talk you into paying them 3% of the purchase price for driving you around a couple weekends and doing 5 minutes of paperwork to write up a contract.
So they can try to talk you into paying them 3% of the purchase price for driving you around a couple weekends and doing 5 minutes of paperwork to write up a contract.
- Rudi Hofmann, "LUXURY HOME LOANS CA"
- Contributions:7435
Most savvy consumers will hire a professional. Especially, on Financial and Legal matters. A savvy person understands the benefit of being represented by a professional. .... Happy funding, Rudi
- Alex Cortez, "MauiRealEstateSearch"
- Contributions:114
The experience of a professional can prove to of extreme value to any consumer. I am sure you could find out online how to fix the lowering suspension system on a mercedes, but would you actually feel safe doing so? I would prefer to have a MB mechanic do it. I am sure you could find out online how to fix any electrical issues on your house. Would that be safe or even a long-term fix? Perhaps, but I know I would prefer a professional electrician to fix it. Nonetheless, good luck in your endeavors.
- CMTI
- Contributions:1
WOW just by looking at the Agents Responds about how smart Home Buyers and Sellers are this day,it goes to show you How INSECURE the Real Estate agents are,and they all have the same SELF-SERVING Answers..U. NEED ME me me ..... can you say some people are STILL in DENIAL..
- Clarence Madrilejos, "clarencem99"
- Contributions:13
Yes there are number of different sources of information and tools on the market right now that can help you do the real estate process on their own. With all these tools buying and selling a home is still a complicate process. As a Realtor it is my job to protect my clients throughout the whole process. In California where I practice, there are number of different law and regulations that we have to keep in mind so that our clients don't get sued or lose heavenly in the transaction.
- Mark LeMenager
- Contributions:1716
It would seem that most of us here actually disagree with your premise. Who are these agents acting in this way? Sounds like you've had a bad experience with one and want to vent a bit, which is OK.
VERY SAVVY? Really, you think so? Certainly some are, but read a few hundred questions here and on Trulia. Lot's of very naive folks out there who will get robbed without experienced assistance. And that is really what we bring to the table, experience, not secrets.
VERY SAVVY? Really, you think so? Certainly some are, but read a few hundred questions here and on Trulia. Lot's of very naive folks out there who will get robbed without experienced assistance. And that is really what we bring to the table, experience, not secrets.
- Shawn Rogers, "Mister Rogers Homes"
- Contributions:912
RK4-
Good Evening.
All of the information below is solid. I truly think you have most of your facts in order, however, knowing or mastering a trade, which will ultimately save a client time, money, stress etc. is worth it's weight in gold. There are
many parts of the home buying/selling transaction you can assist an agent with, however, I know and could very easily "prove it" that I have saved far beyod the "%" of my commission. When you truly grasp the real estate world, it will become clear that we do more than unlock a door. The best part of it is, you (or anyone) are free to do what you feel/think/know is best for you and only time will tell if it all worked out.
Cindy, I love the comparison...perfect. Reminds me of a quick story: I was a a hockey game and the goalie let a one go by him. Another fan said to his friend: "GOD, he should have stopped that...even I could have". His friend looked at him and said: "Ohhh it's easy from the stands...and you can't even skate". I always use that when clients ask me if they should FISBO.
Have a BEAUTIFUL night.
Good Evening.
All of the information below is solid. I truly think you have most of your facts in order, however, knowing or mastering a trade, which will ultimately save a client time, money, stress etc. is worth it's weight in gold. There are
many parts of the home buying/selling transaction you can assist an agent with, however, I know and could very easily "prove it" that I have saved far beyod the "%" of my commission. When you truly grasp the real estate world, it will become clear that we do more than unlock a door. The best part of it is, you (or anyone) are free to do what you feel/think/know is best for you and only time will tell if it all worked out.
Cindy, I love the comparison...perfect. Reminds me of a quick story: I was a a hockey game and the goalie let a one go by him. Another fan said to his friend: "GOD, he should have stopped that...even I could have". His friend looked at him and said: "Ohhh it's easy from the stands...and you can't even skate". I always use that when clients ask me if they should FISBO.
Have a BEAUTIFUL night.
- Sandy Thacker, "CBC National_Bank"
- Contributions:54
The knowledge and experience of the agent determines their value.
- Sheena Martin, "sheenamartin"
- Contributions:9
We don't have secrets, and most of us don't act like we do. It's just easier for buyers to use an agent. You would use a lawyer to represent you in court even if you don't have to, because it's your lawyer's job to know the law for you. A Realtor offers the same concept. It's our job to know real estate for our clients so they don't have to spend valuable time doing research on their own. If you have no problem using dual agency, then by all means, use it. It's really just a matter of preference.
- Cindy LaPeer ABR, e-PRO,SFR, Cdrs, "Houston Metro Pro"
- Contributions:2239
We never said someone can't buy or sell without an agent. It all has to do with experience... doing the same thing every day. I can be my own mechanic, buy the books, order the parts, read about the "tricks" on the internet. However, when it comes right down to it, it will take me longer and there's a good chance I'll screw something up on my car that will cost me a lot more in the long run. But I could fix my own car just as someone can buy or sell a home w/o a Realtor.
- Dawn Menard, "Dawn Menard"
- Contributions:10
RK4
Hi RK4, I know there is alot of info out there but let us just take one example about a buyer. When you are a buyer and the home you are about to purchase is listed witha a agency they are not representing you they are going to work with their CLIENT unless you sign a dual agency then you are represented. As a buyer it doesn't cost you a thing to work with a buyers agent all cost comes from the listing home.
W hen you list your home there is alot of work that most clients do not see along with the state required documents, inspections negotiating,financing etc. See my friend sometimes all the really great agents make the transaction seem so simple. Dawn Realtor
Hi RK4, I know there is alot of info out there but let us just take one example about a buyer. When you are a buyer and the home you are about to purchase is listed witha a agency they are not representing you they are going to work with their CLIENT unless you sign a dual agency then you are represented. As a buyer it doesn't cost you a thing to work with a buyers agent all cost comes from the listing home.
W hen you list your home there is alot of work that most clients do not see along with the state required documents, inspections negotiating,financing etc. See my friend sometimes all the really great agents make the transaction seem so simple. Dawn Realtor
- Nic Petrossi, "npetrossi"
- Contributions:163
True, buyers and sellers are savvy, (or more savvy than they were in the past). And a lot of people try to go ahead and sell their home on their own and then realize something....unless they're retired, it's a LOT of work! Do you have time to show your house, hold open houses, negotiate contracts, worry about liabilities in case something wasn't disclosed...it's no wonder that 70 percent of all For Sale By Owners (at least in our area) end up listing with an agent.
Why do Agents acts like the Home buying or selling can't be done without them?LOTS of tools nowadays
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