Ha …Do I have your attention now? Yes, this is a very real and common theme offering from lots of different Real Estate Agents from all over the country.
So what’s going on here? Will they really sell your home within 90 days or else then sell it for FREE?
Answer: Of course not, as this is a recipe for going out of business, not surviving, and certainly not for growing a business. So what exactly is the catch? Is this just a Real Estate Marketing gimmick to motivate sellers for a listing appointment?
A Look at the Fine Print
In the marketing world this is known as, ‘A Teaser’ and is a perfectly ethical attempt at grabbing your attention within the vast media outlets of today. I used it myself, when I chose the title of this marketing post. Ethical, that is, as long as a mention of the fine print restrictions* accompany the offer.
These restrictions most always include one or more of the following*:
- An agreed upon listing price between seller and listing agent
- A 3% commission is still payable to the buyer’s agency
- A small fixed admin / marketing fee is still due the listing agency
- The home is under a certain price threshold and not a foreclosure
- Etc., Etc.
Transparency is the Key
Most Real Estate Agents across the country are independent business people and have full control of the commission and/or charges they request for their services. Do they make allowances for discounts when the circumstances (i.e., restrictions) warrant it? Most certainly, it happens all the time!
Taking a look at the short list of restrictions listed above, would we be willing to offer a similar commission system? Answer: Why of course, just take a close look at item #1: ‘An agreed upon listing price between seller and listing agent’.
We would be foolish to pass on a listing that is priced properly, while at the same time just as foolish to enter into such a deal when the listing would be clearly overpriced. It’s not really all that complicated when the fine print is transparent to all involved, although we likely wouldn’t call it: ‘Sell it for Free‘ when in reality it would be: ‘Sell it at a Discount‘.
If you have some special circumstances ask me about our flexible commission plans: email me or simply call me directly at 256-425-1659.
- Elizabeth
