NEGOTIATED COMMISSOIN Who Pay's What

So is it OK to ask an agent to discount their commission - well that question has so many answers. Of course it's a reasonable question. But here are some facts you'll want to consider:

If you're a Buyer you are not paying any of the commission your agent is receiving.

So is it fair to still ask for something - well Yes, you should ask but you shouldn't allow the answer to determine whether or not you will work this Agent.

For example: You are buying a home in an area where you are relying heavily upon the agent to be familiar with. You are relying upon your agent to find the property and bring it to your attention quickly, securing you an opportunity to view it early on. You are dependant upon your agent to help you navigate through the inspections, disclosures, explaining in detail their impact and effect on you as they buyer. You are looking for your agent to maximize your position in drafting a strong contract yet offering you every protection possible to minimize risk.

While you continue to work your full time job, you're hoping your agent is dedicated to serving your interests in this purchase with full time commitment.....

Does it sound like I am making a case here - well I am - shared commission essentially equates to Discount Service - which is great if the most important question is 'will that be for here or to go?' but you the buyer are making a huge investment and have aligned yourself with an expert who you want to discount their paycheck.

Half hearted I ask Buyer's - Since you are asking me to share my income with you, will you allow me to stay in your home with you? Or would you rather I reduce the care and attention You need me to provide to assure you of a Swift, Safe and Successful Escrow?

Discounts mean - receiving goods or service at a price less then expected, well in Real Estate it means - Less commission, less effort. And those who disagree are trying to speak from two sides of their mouth - you can't provide a level of expertise at below market rate and not see something suffer.

Of course, there are plenty of Part Time Realtors, or those desperate for a sale that they'll promise you almost anything - but Buyer Beware - you better know up front what those who discount plan to do and what those who won't discount will do.

So if you are interviewing people - ask them to provide you with their standards of care and compare it to Full Service Agents.

Good Luck!