Myth and Truth about hiring a real estate professional

This section is provided to give perspective and to serve as a tool when looking to hire a real estate professional. If you would like a Myth and Truth question addressed in this section, enter your question in the box below. A response to your question will be e-mailed to you and may be published in whole or in part in this section.

Myth: A good salesperson is the best choice when selecting a real estate agent.

Truth: A salesperson has one primary objective: to make the sale or "get the listing".  When entering into a legally binding contract however, a salesperson may lack the knowledge or integrity necessary to properly represent you and limit your exposure to future litigation. Visit the Department of Real Estate licensing site www.dre.com, you will find it is chalk full of real estate "salespeople" who have had their licenses revoked, suspended, or limited in some way. You can also use this site as a tool in validating the credentials and licensing status of any licensed real estate agent.

Myth: There is a perception that real estate agents make lots of money.

Truth: The typical real estate agent earns on average $ . . . . . . per year. One reason for this is what we call the "sheep factor", whereby large numbers of individuals are allowed to obtain a real estate license with relative ease. The affect is to "dilute the revenue pool" for the true professionals who have mastered their trade. The true professionals are in the business for the long run and are full time dedicated practitioners. Unfortunately, the barriers to entry in becoming a residential real estate agent are low. Some pundits have referred to this industry as the "career of default". In other words, when all else fails get a real estate sales license, so be careful when screening agents before you hire one. A critical aspect when hiring a real estate professional is to properly qualify when interviewing, prior to and during your meeting.

Myth: Top producing agents are usually the better agents.

Truth: Top producing agents are probably good at marketing, which can cover a wide range of skill, technique, and strategy. Many top producing agents have simply mastered the art of creating a perception - and perception, however good or bad, is what sells. Remember the slogan: Winston tastes good like a  . . . . . (you probably know the rest). There are top agents who are simply hard workers. Whatever the case, your questions should be directed at discovering how your interests will be best served.

The common thread among good agents is that they put their clients first; so get a feel for an agent's level of integrity and check references before you hire one.

Myth: Representation by a real estate agent will keep you from getting sued by the buyer of your home.

Truth: Real estate law in the state of California tends to favor the buyer. Although there are valid reasons for why this is the case, most sellers can minimize the possibility of being taken to court by having an experienced and polished real estate agent working on their side. As the saying goes "the devil is in the details". So be sure you are made aware of aspects of a legally binding contract that can give rise to the possibility of getting sued down the line.