What are the atributes of a good Realtor®?

A good Realtor® typically works full-time and has several years of experience at minimum.  A good agent will also be able to provide you with testimonials from past clients and will have access to resources, referrals and tools (like a dynamic website) to best serve you and your needs.

What Brokerage Relationships are available to me?

There are four relationships you as a consumer can have with a real estate agent:

Buyer's Agent: As your buyer's agent I would work exclusively on your behalf to uphold your best interest. A buyer agency agreement will be required to establish this relationship

Seller's Agent:  When listing your home I will work stricktly on your behalf and advocate your best interst.  A listing agreement will be required to establish a list.

Transaction Broker: One could receive the assistance from a Realtor® without establishing an agency relationship. Unlike an agency relationship, a transaction brokerage relationship does not have to be established in writing.

Customer: A customer is a party to a transaction with whom the broker has no brokrage relationship.

Can I use an agent for a new home?

Yes, however buyers should be aware of the differences inherent in working with sales agents who are employed by the developer, rather than traditional real estate agents.

Builders commonly require that an outside agent be present, and sign in, the first time a prospective purchaser visits a site before payment of commission even is discussed. At times when buyers use an advertisement to find the development themselves first, builders can refuse to pay any commission regardless of how helpful an agent may become later in the process. It is advisable to call the development first and inquire about their policy on compensating real estate agents if you are using one.