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Agent Expectations
Buyer Agencies
Buyer's Agent Questions
Compensation
Developing a Relationship
Listing Agent Questions
Agent Selection Guides
What to Expect from a Full-service Agent
What can you expect from your agent? Plenty! (Or at least you should.)
No doubt about it. Buying or selling a home is right at the top of the list of major (and exciting) life changes. It's also one of the most important financial transactions of your life. From making initial buying or selling decisions to closing (and everything in between), you should definitely know how an agent will turn your dream into a reality.
That's where full-service agents come in. You don't want to trust one of the most important decisions of your lifetime to an agent who's more focused on cutting corners than on making sure needs are being met – and exceeded.
Here's a list of what you should expect from a full-service agent. This is just a general list – you should review it and determine what other important needs you have. Make sure that your prospective agent is willing to provide you with the full suite of services you deserve.
Buyers
We work to make the home buying process easier for you by providing the ultimate convenience with these services:
* Assistance with loan pre-approval
* Needs assessment
* Fast home-buying assistance
* Online tools to make the process easier and more convenient
* Expert negotiation
* Mortgage
* Title
* Warranty
* Relocation services
Connect with a buyer's agent for more information.
Sellers
We've perfected the home-selling process, too, by providing full-fledged service including:
* Pricing your home to sell
* Innovative marketing
* Home preparation advice
* Showing your home
* Expert negotiation
* Real communication – on your terms
* Finding your next home fast
With the best Web site in the real estate industry, and the best marketing tools in the business, our agents reach a wider audience of potential buyers, making it easier for them to find your home once it's been listed. And, when the time comes, we can help you find your next home, too.
Connect with a listing agent for more information.
Back to Top Buyer Agencies
Someone to Watch Over You
Life. Work. Family. Friends. Your life is busy - your time is valuable. So when it comes to buying a home, tapping into the expertise, focus and energy of a real estate agent will make the home buying process – and your life – so much easier.
A Century 21 JRS Realty buyer's agent is your partner, your industry insider, your expert and, more or less, your guardian angel rolled into one. Your agent's job is to ensure that you find the home you've been waiting for – as quickly and conveniently as possible – and for the best price. And the best part is, as a buyer, you get expertise, knowledge, advice and support without incurring any out-of-pocket expenses.
When you select a Century 21 JRS Realty buyer's agent, you get someone who:
* Works with you to find the home you need. Your agent will offer a number of home choices based on your preferences, and then s/he will help you narrow the field until you find the house you can call home.
* Researches list prices, selling prices and expired listings. Your agent will develop useful comparisons that help you determine fair prices and terms for the house you want.
* Negotiates prices, terms and conditions. Let your agent make the deal that meets your financial needs.
* Arranges for and accompanies you on home tours. Your agent will go with you when you view potential homes and be there on the day of your home inspection, providing additional assistance, a listening ear or an objective viewpoint.
* Prepares and explains your home-buying documents. From the purchase agreement to all the other legal documents you'll sign when you close on your new home, your agent will handle all the verbiage details and walk you through any document you sign.
* Takes care of day-to-day details and follow up. Your agent will work closely with your mortgage lender, the title company, the seller's agent and any other key parties until that home is actually yours.
Read more about your agent relationship.
Get information on what to look for in an agent.
Buying a home is one of the most important decisions of your life – make sure you've got someone to help you through the process. When you start your home search – make sure to connect with a real estate agent who will help you make the process as simple, and convenient, as possible.
Back to Top Buyer's Agent Interview Questions
Select Your Buyer's Agent with Confidence
Working with an agent means more than having an expert on your side. Your agent is your partner and sounding board, protecting your interests, making the process as convenient as possible and leading the way to your eventual home purchase.
As you think about what you want in a new home, visit properties and make major decisions, your agent will be with you every step of the way. With so much at stake, it's important to choose an agent you feel comfortable with – one who will help you make this experience both memorable and rewarding.
All Century 21 JRS Realty agents are highly trained professionals with the skills, abilities and resources to find your next home. So, when you're choosing a Century 21 JRS Realty agent, all you need to do is find the one who fits your personality and preferences.
Interview several agents before you make your final selection, and ask important questions such as:
Q. How will you help me narrow my choices?
A. Look for someone who understands what you want – whether that's starting with a broad or narrow view of the market. Listen to how the agent speaks about options and decides if his/her approach is one you like. Whether it's about communities, homes or features, make sure you feel comfortable with your agent. S/he should explain all your options and help you separate good ones from less-than-optimal ones.
Q. What advice can you offer that's unique to my situation?
A. Are you settling into the family homestead or expecting to transfer in two years? Your unique circumstances will prompt discussion with your buyer's agent. Get a sense for how the agent can counsel you on the specifics of your circumstances. If you've got a special need – for instance, if you're a first-time homebuyer, are searching for a high-end property or are just looking for expertise on one specific neighborhood – make sure to ask your agent what qualifies him or her to help you with that special need.
Q. Why should I confine myself to working with only a single buyer's agent?
A. If you don't have an Exclusive Agency Agreement with your buyer's agent, you're not legally obligated to work with just him/her. It may, however, really benefit you to do so. Listen to the agent's philosophies on this point, and then decide what's right for you. Many buyers find that the most convenient and time efficient way to handle the home-buying process is to work with a single buyer's agent.
Q. When did you last buy a house for yourself?
A. Buying a home challenges our minds and our emotions. Does your agent understand what you're going through? Can he or she stand in your shoes and appreciate the unique challenges of the process – from your viewpoint? When your agent last bought his/her house isn't the issue as much as this: Do you feel the agent understands and empathizes with you?
Q. What happens when you're not available to me?
A. Make sure your agent explains his/her "plan B" about what to do if s/he is out of town or otherwise engaged. If you visit a home or open house without your agent, it could mean that s/he can't represent you in the eventual sale. Be sure to understand how a prospective agent handles even brief periods of unavailability.
Q. What distinguishes your real estate company from the competitor(s)?
A. Is the agent's company large because it reinvests in innovation? Does the agent's real estate firm make sure it provides access with the most cutting-edge technology tools to meet buyers' needs? Each organization should have a business philosophy that your agent can easily articulate to you.
Q. What distinguishes your personal service from other real estate agents?
A. Listen to how the agent describes his/her communication skills and willingness to be there for you – when you need them, in the way you need them. Think about how often you want to communicate, as well as when and how. Choose an agent who gives you a confident response to communicating on your terms.
After each interview, ask yourself:
* Do you feel like the agent is trustworthy and honest?
* Does s/he seem realistic when talking about your home or your anticipated home purchase?
* Do you communicate well with the agent and vice versa?
* Do you feel that the agent sees things from the same point of view?
* Would you describe him/her as committed, motivated and experienced?
Learn more about what to look for in a buyer's agent.
Back to Top Compensation
Understanding Agent Compensation
There's almost nothing more important than choosing an agent who's right for you. If you're a home seller, that means finding an agent who will sell your home at the best price in the shortest time. If you're a buyer, it means an agent who will quickly help you find the home of your dreams, fast – for a price you can afford.
But there are a number of other factors that make an agent "right." Don't let commission, however, be one of them.
Why? Simply put, because you get what you pay for. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, a full-service agent, like your Century 21 JRS Realty agent, will devote an enormous amount of time and energy to your real estate needs. While you focus on job, family, school, friends and all the other important things in your life, your Century 21 JRS Realty agent will be handling the many small and large details of your real estate transaction. And don't forget; when you buy with a Century 21 JRS Realty agent, you generally do not have to pay any out-of-pocket charges directly to your agent.
* Questions to ask a prospective listing agent.
* Questions to ask a prospective buyer's agent.
Speak with your Century 21 JRS Realty agent about agent representation and commission. In the meantime, here are some commonly asked questions regarding broker/agent commissions:
Q. How are real estate agents paid?
A. Real estate agents (regardless of whether they're serving a buyer or a seller) typically receive a commission for their work in the sale of the home – a commission that they usually split with another agent who is involved in the transaction. On occasion, agents are paid a pre-negotiated flat fee for services, regardless of the sale price of the home.
Not too many years ago, real estate agencies were "seller-only," meaning that the real estate agent represented the seller, not the buyer. Under the seller-only arrangement, real estate agents (and brokers) only represented the interests of the seller, not the buyer. In fact the buyer was largely unrepresented in the transaction and usually not even aware of it!
All that changed in the 1990s when conventional wisdom caught up with this reality – without a buyer, a home won't sell.
Even with the advent of a buyer agency, real estate commissions are still derived from the proceeds of the sale of the home. And given the value associated with agent representation (time, expertise and resources, to name a few), most people agree that it's money well spent – especially from a full-service agency like Century 21 JRS Realty.
As a full-service agency, Century 21 JRS Realty sales associates and expert consultants work together to provide you with real estate, title, mortgage and home solutions. Because we're integrated, we can deliver our services in seamless fashion, making the entire process as pleasant and uncomplicated as possible for you.
Q. How is the amount of a real estate commission determined?
A. The broker determines the standard fee and that fee is stated in the company's listing agreement. Typically, the commission is a percentage of the eventual sale price of the home. Each broker's standard fee may vary depending on operating and other costs.
Real estate brokers independently determine their costs for doing business, using both fixed and variable expenses in their calculations. In addition to maintaining their office environment, brokers incur additional costs in marketing and promoting their listed properties. Brokers may market all their company's listings through such avenues as ads in community newspapers, home books and media such as radio, Internet Web sites and telephone hotlines. Or they may allow their individual agents to market the properties listed with that agent.
Total operating and marketing costs can have an impact on the way the commission is determined. Regardless of how the amount is derived, be sure you know what the commission will be up front and get it in writing.
Q. Is the commission negotiable?
A. Yes. In every state and on every transaction, commission is, by law, negotiable at the time it is established. In most cases, this means that the commission is established between the seller and the agent who lists the home.
Buyers and sellers should refrain from attempting to negotiate commission at the closing table. That's because a specific fee has been established for real estate services – services that resulted in the sale of the home. Payment should proceed as it was contracted. Think of it this way: Would you ask a doctor to lower her fee after your appendix was successfully removed?
Q. Is there a time when the buyer might pay a commission?
A. Perhaps. In most states, however, it's rare to pay your agent/broker directly for help in finding and purchasing your new home. However, if you, your broker and your agent sign an Exclusive Agency Agreement you may be subject to an out-of-pocket fee (as outlined in the agreement) once you find your home and the contract for its purchase is written and accepted.
Another scenario where you might pay a commission would be if you ask your broker/agent to find a very specific house within an extremely tight window of opportunity. For example, if you needed a house overlooking a lake and featuring boat dockage and an in-law suite, and you needed the house in less than two weeks, you may agree to pay a cash incentive to the broker/agent for the extra time and effort involved in securing such a property.
Q. Is it a good idea to offer a bonus to the agent who sells my home?
A. Perhaps. If there are extenuating circumstances that might make your home a particularly difficult sale, you might consider it. Talk about this during your interview with an agent, then decide if it's reasonable to pay a gratuity. Your need for a quick sale or your home's lack of marketability (for any number of reasons, including the robustness of the housing market in your area) may make it harder to sell your home; providing an additional incentive could pay off in the long run.
Q. How much will I make from the sale of my property?
A. Your Century 21 JRS Realty listing agent can compute that answer before you even put your home on the market. S/he will calculate potential profit by working backward from an estimated gross sale price, while subtracting your approximate closing costs, real estate commission and any other fees or deductions that are specific to the sale of your property.
Back to Top Developing a Relationship
Agent Criteria & Credentials
Buying or selling your home isn't always easy. But it's most definitely rewarding!
And there's no need to go it alone when an experienced Realtor® can easily become your home buying or selling partner. At Century 21 JRS Realty, we believe that both the buyer and the seller should have professional representation.
Criteria
There are a lot of things to look for in a seller's agent or a buyer's agent but also consider your special needs:
* Want a tech-savvy agent? Work with an agent who uses a sophisticated set of Web-based tools that make communication fast and easy. For home sellers, tech-savvy agents will make sure to market their homes online – where the most buyers are. Tech-savvy agents can also help buyers expedite the search process by sharing property photos, details and information, all online. (Tip: Almost 80 percent of potential buyers turn to the Internet for the home buying experience. Having a technology-focused agent can be a real plus in the marketplace.)
* Moving to a new city? Work with an agent who's a Certified Relocation Specialist (CRS), trained to meet your unique needs. Or, contact Century 21 JRS Realty Relocation Services, a member of RELO, the nation's premier real estate network, to connect you with an agent who specializes in meeting the needs of clients who are moving to a new city.
* ¿Hable español? If English isn't your primary language, find an agent fluent in your primary language. Century 21 JRS Realty offers translation assistance in 25 languages (including American Sign Language) for non-English-speaking clients. Learn about our many multicultural resources.
* Looking at building a brand-new house? Work with an agent who specializes in new builds and understands the ins and outs of the process.
* Want a higher price, fast closing and time to enjoy your life? Ask a Century 21 JRS Realty sales associate about our Auction Services.
Credentials
Realtors are licensed professionals who adhere to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Code of Ethics. Those belonging to the NAR receive continuing education and are up on the latest trends, making them well-prepared to offer you the most advanced real estate advice. Your agent will provide you a variety of tools and assistance to streamline your selling experience.
Pay attention to details and look first for an agent that belongs to the NAR. In addition, take a look at the abbreviations following an agent's name. They're important because they refer to various accredited designations that have been earned through a lot of hard work.
For example, the designation CRS (certified residential specialist) is the highest designation available to sales associates in the residential real estate industry. In fact, only four percent of all agents in the country can claim this designation. The award recognizes accomplishments in terms of education, experience and volume of transactions throughout a career.
Other designations include:
* ABR: Accredited Buyer Representative
* ALC: Accredited Land Consultant
* CCIM: Certified Commercial Investment Member
* CIPS: Certified International Property Specialist
* CRB: Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager
Ready to find an agent? Connect with Century 21 JRS Realty Customer Care. We'll help you find an agent to meet the needs we consider the most special – yours!
Back to Top Listing Agent Interview Questions
Choose Your Selling Agent with Care
If you're interviewing a listing agent at your home, pay attention to how s/he reacts to talk about your home during the discussion. Choose someone you feel comfortable with. Someone who genuinely believes in your home as much (or more!) than you do. Someone who sees its potential and will work hard to represent it. And, someone who has an innovative marketing plan that will make sure that all potential buyers are exposed to your home.
All Century 21 JRS Realty agents are highly trained professionals with the skills, abilities and resources to sell your home. So, when you're choosing a Century 21 JRS Realty agent, all you need to do is find the one that fits your personality and preferences.
Formulate a list of questions, and then set out to find your agent. Here are some questions to get you started:
Q. If I list my house with an agent, can the same agent represent me in the purchase of my next home?
A. Most likely, yes. Ask the agent to explain the agency concept and how it works in your state. The agent who lists your home can usually become your buying agent, too. Just be sure to ask what limitations, if any, your agent's representation will have.
Q. If you're my agent, what happens when you're not available?
A. Find out how each agent handles the time they're unavailable. Do they use an assistant? Do they have a partner? Whom should you call and when? Can you reach the agent by cell, pager or e-mail? Find out what the contingencies are for all what-if scenarios. Make sure to partner with an agent who will ensure that your needs can be met – all of the time.
Q. When did you last sell your own residence? What did you like and dislike about that experience?
A. Experience is a great teacher. Selling a home is an emotional experience, and empathy is one of the most powerful emotions. Does your agent understand first-hand what it's like to sell a home? Can s/he provide some lessons learned to help in your experience?
Q. What advice would you give me to prepare my home for sale?
A. Some agents will suggest that you neutralize your décor, while others may feel they know just the right buyer for your intense (or subdued, as the case may be) color scheme. Should you tear out old carpeting? What about major repairs? Be sure to choose an agent who can analyze your home's strengths and weaknesses – and who can help you know how to accentuate its best features when preparing to sell.
Q. What would you tell a buyer who's considering my home?
A. Real estate agents should be skilled in discerning the positive features and benefits of any home. Is your home especially appealing because of its floor plan? Because of it's location in a great neighborhood? Or because of a unique kitchen or master suite? Be sure you're comfortable with how s/he plans to represent your home – and that s/he can accurately describe and promote your home's best attributes.
Q. What's your personal philosophy of what really sells a home? Is it direct mail marketing, Internet exposure, promotion to other real estate agents or something else?
A. Your Century 21 JRS Realty listing agent will build a marketing plan based on his/her answer to this question, and your specific property. Make sure you understand and agree with the agent's perspective.
Q. How will you or your company protect me from the general public in the areas of safety, convenience and eliminating unnecessary showings?
A. Make sure your agent is willing to operate in a way that makes you feel comfortable and safe – and in a way that makes the selling process as convenient as possible. Discuss whether you would like potential buyers to be screened prior to scheduling showings, and whether you'd like your address to be kept private in marketing efforts. Have this discussion in advance to make sure your agent's philosophies are in line with your preferences.
Q. What sold the last three properties you listed?
A. Because the answer to this question can differ by market and by home, what's more important than the actual answer is that your agent is able to explain in simple, direct terms which factors contributed to his or her recent sales. If the agent hasn't already addressed it, ask him/her what strengths they see in your home that will help it sell.
Q. What advice would you give to a buyer who's considering my home?
A. You won't likely be present when your agent talks to potential buyers, so make sure you feel comfortable with how s/he talks about your home – whether the emphasis is on getting the best offer or selling the house quickly.
Q. What distinguishes your real estate company from the competitor(s)?
A. Is a company large because it reinvests in innovation? Does the agent's real estate firm promise to provide sellers with the best online exposure to sellers? Each organization should have a business philosophy that your agent can easily articulate to you.
Q. What distinguishes your personal service from other real estate agents?
A. Listen to how the agent describes his/her communication skills and willingness to be there for you – when you need them, in the way you need them. Think about how often you want to communicate, as well as when and how you'd like to receive updates on the sales process. Choose an agent who gives you a confident response to communicating on your terms.
After each interview, ask yourself:
* Do you feel like the agent is trustworthy and honest?
* Does s/he seem realistic when talking about your home or your anticipated home purchase?
* Do you communicate well with the agent and vice versa?
* Do you feel that the agent sees things from the same point of view?
* Would you describe him/her as committed, motivated and experienced?
Learn more about what to look for in a seller's agent.Back to Top
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Florida Keys Real Estate
Real Estate and Homes for sale in the Lower Florida Keys.
CENTURY 21 JRS Realty. is a proud member of the National Association of REALTORS® Equal Housing Opportunity.
Disclaimer: All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to change, withdrawal, or prior sale.
© 2005 CENTURY 21 Real Estate LLC. CENTURY 21 ® is a registered trademark liscensed to Century 21 Real Estate LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Each Office is independently owned and operated.
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