The Commission Rate…
A commission rate compensates the listing agent and company for services provided to the seller and for their expertise. These
services include (among others) marketing, negotiating, follow-up, and
managing and closing the sale. It pays to know what you’re getting for
the fee charged! For example, less marketing will typically mean a lower
sale price!
Other Fees and Required Services…
Many
companies charge sellers a “transaction” or documentation fee (up to
$400!) in addition to the quoted commission rate, and/or require sellers
to obtain other services through that company. CENTURY 21 Kreuser and Seiler has no extra fees or required services.
Length of the Listing Agreement, Cancellation Fees…
Many
listing agreements are for 6 to 12 months and provide for substantial
fees (up to 1% of list price) if cancelled before the term is up. CENTURY 21 Kreuser
and Seiler provides a “no hassle, listing back guarantee” allowing you
to cancel your listing agreement on one day’s notice at no charge, with
no questions, and no fine print!
Dual Agency…
Many listing agreements require you to agree in advance to allow your listing agent to act as a dual agent (represent you and the buyer of your home) in the same transaction. It is to your advantage to have your listing agent represent you and you alone! CENTURY 21 Kreuser and Seiler does not practice dual agency and does not ask you to agree to it.
“Standard” Agreements…
CENTURY 21 Kreuser and Seiler uses a standard agreement provided by The Realtor Association of Northwest Chicagoland (RANWC). When a company uses their own listing agreement, it usually means you should read it more thoroughly!
Many sellers assume that Realtors and Listing Agreements are all about the same. They really are not – and the differences could save a seller thousands of dollars and a lot of aggravation!