Consumer News and Advice Archive


Are there standard ways to determine how much a home is worth?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
Yes. A comparative market analysis and an appraisal are the two most common and reliable ways to determine a home's value. ...
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How do you determine how much a home is worth?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
The short answer: a home is ultimately worth what is paid for it. Everything else is really an estimate of value. Take, for example, a hot seller's market when demand for housing is high but the inventory of available homes for sale is low. During this time, homes can sell ...
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Is the commission negotiable?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
Yes. There is no standard commission. They are not set by law and vary depending on service, customer needs, and company policy. In general, agents charge between 4 percent and 8 percent for full service. Some agents prefer not to offer sellers' the option of paying a fee for an ...
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Do I really need an agent?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
Most home sellers hire real estate agents to list and sell their homes. Most of those who do not are known as For Sale By Owners, or FSBOs. They market and sell their homes themselves. ...
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What if I am not happy with the listing agent and want to terminate the contract?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
Experts say unhappiness is not a legal reason to terminate a valid home sale-listing contract. Legally, to cancel a listing, you must be able to prove the agent's lack of "due diligence." This means the agent isn't taking the normal steps to properly market your home, such as putting your ...
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What is the most common type of contract for listing properties?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
The exclusive right to sell. It gives the real estate broker the exclusive right to sell your home during the term of the listing. If a sale occurs - even if you sell the home yourself - the broker gets a commission. The broker may share the listing with other ...
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What questions should I ask an agent interested in selling my home?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
Interview at least three local agents who sell homes in your community. Grill them about the following: ...
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How do I find the right agent for me?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
To begin with, think local. Select someone who is very familiar with your neighborhood and the properties for sale in it. Then, if you are selling, say, a condominium, choose an agent with expertise selling apartments to potential homeowners. ...
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Do I need an attorney to sell a home?

Saturday, November 24th, 2007
Although most sellers can handle routine real estate purchase contracts, some experts say it is a good idea to be represented by an attorney, particularly if you are selling on your own. You should choose one with expertise in real estate transactions. Before hiring someone discuss all the details of ...
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