Use a San Jose Real Estate Agent?

How Do You Become a Real Estate Agent?

A real estate agent is someone who can legally represent a buyer in the buying process or a seller in marketing a home for sale. The real estate agent has passed a series of studies which include a general overview of real estate in a particular state. In addition, the real estate agent has passed the state exam and has been granted a license. The real estate agent must then work under a brokerage such as Coldwell Banker who is then is responsible for that real estate agent's actions. If the real estate agent passes another series of studies and another state exam they may become a real estate broker. A broker does not have to hang their license under a brokerage.

I'm the Buyer - Tell me about the real estate agent representing me?

A buyer's agent represents a buyer throughout the transaction. This involves the following: buyer consultation, home search, previewing homes, making an offer, opening escrow, overseeing inspections, guiding buyers through the lender requirements, removal of contingencies, signing loan docs in escrow, walk through, and the close of escrow.

The real estate agent representing a buyer typically does not get paid until the buyer actually closes escrow and buys the home. Some buyer agents require a signed commitment stating that the buyer will stick to the agent throughout the entire buying process. This is often refered to as a "buyer broker agreement." This is due to the fact that there are many agents competing for buyer business. Some buyer agents and brokerages offer rebates, limited service, full service, and other perks and buyers can be swayed away from one real estate agent to another agent. Some smart buyer agents receive a commitment from the buyer before they start working with the buyer. This way the buyer's agent can work 100% without worrying if the buyer will bail at the last minute to have a friend or relative write up the offer. If a buyer is seriously interested in hiring a particular agent they should commit to that agent. If you know that this agent is the best and can negotiate the best deal, then other buyers mostl likely feel the same way. He or she only can work with a limited number of buyers, so therefore, you should hire that agent and sign a written commitment to that agent for a specified time (ie. three months). The buyer broker agreement works both ways: 1) it commits the buyer to the agent; and 2) it makes it so the agent is obligated to find a deal only for that buyer. It keeps everyone honest.

I'm the Seller - Do I need to use a real estate agent?

No, you don't need to use a real estate agent to sell your property. But why wouldn't you? This may be the single biggest investment you own. Approximately 80 % of all homes are listed with a real estate agent.

There are sellers who chose to sell a home "for sale by owner". This can limit the amount of exposure you receive. A FSBO property will generally get some drive by traffic, online classified ads, and that's it. Listing a home with a real estate agent will expose the home on the mls which is the single best vehicle for buyers and sellers looking to buy and sell properties.

What will the real estate agent do for me?

In addition to more exposure and ultimately more interest and more offers, the seller receives the professional guidance of the real estate agent. A full service real estate agent representing the seller will do the following: 1) Provide a Comparative Market Analysis of the property or a CMA; 2) Explain the Marketing Plan and what they will do to sell the home; 3) Place the property on the MLS; 4) Assist in filling out statutorily required disclosures and important forms; 5) Negotiate price and terms on the sellers behalf; 6) Work with buyers agent, escrow representatives, appraisers, inspectors, and others to make sure that escrow closes and the seller gets paid.

What is the difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor®

There are many benefits to working with a real estate agent. They are licensed by the state of California and have passed the necessary studies required to work with the general public. A Realtor® is an agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors and who adhere to its Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. They are also knowledgeable on current market conditions, home values and how they relate to market conditions, what locations are most desireable, and how real estate laws and contracts work.

How Do I Chose An Agent?

To find a licenced broker or real estate agent your best bet is to ask your friends and family members for a referral. If you are relocating to a new city and you do not know anyone you can use the Internet to search for a real estate agent.

Experts agree that buyers and sellers should hire a real estate agent that is an expert in the area they are looking or selling in. Find someone who is a good personality fit and that you can work well with. Selling or Buying a home is probably the single biggest financial transaction for most people. You should do it with someone you get along with, trust and enjoy spending time with.

Start by interviewing potential real estate agents. Ask them about the number of years they have worked as a real estate agent. Also ask them if they have a specialized experience such as short sales, working with bank owned properties or reo property, trustee sales, 1031 exchanges, probate sales, and foreclosures. Ask the real estate agent about any accomplishments they have made such as being a top producer. Don't forget to ask the agent where are the majority of their sales made (neighborhood,city,etc) And finally, ask the real estate agent if they actually own property themselves.

Don't short change yourself by working with an "a-la-carte" real estate outfit or a "discount broker." Coldwell Banker has been in business for over 100 years. Not many companies can match that. In addition, we have over 107,000 agents worldwide and have the power of network. That's why we are the #1 marker share leader in most metropolitan areas.

Call (408) 460-8401 to speak to a real estate agent specializing in San Jose, California.