There was an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, “When You Buy or Sell a Home, Realty Bites,” (March 4). This was written by a real estate brokerage that uses big data and machine learning, and opines that our structure is anti-competive, and further that “high fees might make sense if residential Realtors always offered an extremely valuable service. But according to to NAR itself, most buyers do the work themselves, spending months on the Internet identifying attractive neighborhoods and homes before calling a real estate agent to simply open the door.”  We all can pinpoint many areas we would disagree with this statement, especially the assumption that finding the house is where your value lies.  It is important that now more than ever, we are constantly reinforcing the value of a Realtor – and that you in the field are providing professional, fiduciary services that has tremendous value….  That your skills are constantly being honed and improved.  I have reprinted two items below that should be helpful (1) The response form the National Association of Realtor’s President, John Smaby (2) A list of what Realtors bring to the table.  Make sure you are providing client level services with expertise, and get in touch if you have suggestions for classes or lessons that would be helpful.

A response: John Smaby, 2019 NAR President

The National Association of Realtors® (NAR), together with our 1.3 million members, is actively engaged in the effort to ensure consumers are benefiting from technological advancements in real estate as we look to maintain a healthy, competitive housing market.Jack Ryan and Jonathan Friedland fail to recognize multiple realities of America’s housing industry.

Realtors are not only embracing the technology that consumers use to search for homes, but in most instances they are driving that innovation. And as real-estate agents and consumers become more tech-enabled, Americans on both ends of the transaction are still finding that a real-estate professional’s guidance is more important than ever. Recent data have shown that 90% of Americans who search online for property use a real-estate agent, while only 64% of those who do not search online use an agent.

Messrs. Ryan and Friedland claim that “most buyers do the work themselves.” This shortsighted assumption infers that the only “work” that goes into this transaction is the search for property itself. NAR’s members showcase their value in guiding buyers as they sift through a sea of misleading information found online, while also helping clients navigate inspections and appraisals, secure reliable mortgage lenders and effectively prepare their homes for sale, along with so much more.

The authors also erroneously argue that a 2008 consent decree between the Justice Department and NAR had the intent of helping buyers find homes online without the help of real-estate professionals, and that NAR’s multiple listing services (MLSs) are anticompetitive. Both assertions are misinformed and fail to recognize that courts, regulators and online advertisers all agree that MLSs incentivize competition, increase efficiencies and lower costs.

Realtors are more than agents and apps. They are community advocates who commit to a code of ethics and advocate for private property rights. In a transaction that is often the largest and most complex we will make in our lifetime, consumers want a trusted professional to guide them through this process. And there is no substitute for that.

What A Realtor Does For You

The Critical Role Of The Realtor In The Real Estate Transaction

Reprinted with permission, with thanks to the Orlando Regional Realtor Association. 

Many home buyers and sellers are not aware of the true value that a Realtor provides during the course of a real estate transaction. Many people, in fact, are not cognizant of the expertise, professional knowledge, and just plain hard work that go into bringing about a successful real estate transaction.

A multitude of important services and steps required in a real estate transaction are carried out by the Realtor or the brokerage staff. Most of these steps have traditionally been viewed simply as part of a Realtor’s professional responsibilities to the client. But, without them, the transaction could be placed in jeopardy.

Listed below are nearly 200 typical actions, research steps, processes, and review stages necessary for a successful residential real estate transaction that are normally provided by a full service real estate brokerage in exchange for their sales commission. Depending on the transaction, some of these steps may take minutes, hours, or even days to complete, while some may not be needed.  Consider also that a Realtor performs all of these business services for multiple clients simultaneously without any payment, until the transaction has closed and they were 100% successful in meeting both buyer and seller needs.

REALTOR =

Advocate Negotiator Master Communicator Concierge Matchmaker Wordsmith Problem Solver Photographer Counselor Juggler Marketer Designer

Comprehensiveness

The list is by no means an attempt to set forth a complete list of services, as these can vary within each brokerage and each market. Many Realtors routinely provide a wide variety of additional services that are as varied as the nature of each transaction.

By the same token, some transactions may not require every step listed. However, given the unexpected complications that can arise, it’s far better to know about a step and make an intelligent, informed decision to skip it, than to not know the possibility even exists.

The Realtor Commitment

The professional commitment of a Realtor is to ensure that a seller and a buyer are brought together in an agreement that provides each with a transaction that is fair and equitable. The motivation is easy to understand. For most full-service brokerages, they receive no compensation whatsoever unless and until the sale closes.

By contrast, there are firms that offer limited services in exchange for an up-front flat fee, or offer a menu of pay-as-you-go or a la’ carte options. Other real estate firms may offer a sliding scale ranging from limited to full service. In these cases, the compensation of the Realtor is based on the reduced services provided, with the seller bearing full responsibility for all of the other steps and procedures (which are normally conducted by a full service real estate firm) in the selling process.

Variety Of Choices

The variety of brokerage business models in today’s real estate industry – full service, limited service, fee for service or other — affords consumers with a greater range of options than ever before. No matter which option they choose, homeowners should understand exactly what services will, or will not, be provided by their choice when they hire a house valuation service in Brisbane or a Realtor/brokerage firm before signing a Listing Agreement or otherwise engaging the services of a Realtor and agreeing to compensation.

Why Use A Realtor

Not every real estate agent or broker is a Realtor. That term and the familiar block “R” logo are trademarked by the National Association of Realtors can legally be used only by those that are Realtor members through their local association of Realtors.

While all Realtors are also state-issued licensees as agents or brokers, a major difference between a real estate licensee and a Realtor is that Realtors have taken an oath to subscribe to a stringent, enforceable Code of Ethics with Standards of Practice that promote the fair, ethical and honest treatment of all parties in a transaction. Real estate licensees (those that have a state-issued license but are not members of a Realtor association) are not bound to the ethical practices and principles set forth in the Realtor Code.

In addition, Realtor associations offer a wealth of training courses to their member Realtors, to help assure that Realtors serve their customers with the level of skill, knowledge and attention to detail required in today’s real estate transaction. The continual training provided to Realtors underscores the importance of having help and guidance from someone who fully understands the process – a Realtor.

For peace of mind, ensure that the individual seeking to represent you in a real estate transaction is not just a real estate licensee, but also a Realtor.

Pre-Listing Activities

1. Make appointment with seller for listing presentation.
2. Send seller a written or e-mail confirmation of listing appointment and call to confirm.
3. Create / review pre-appointment questions.
4. Research all comparable currently listed properties.
5. Research sales activity for past 18 months through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and/or public records databases.
6. Research “Average Days on Market” for this property of this type, price range and location.
7. Download and review property tax roll information.
8. Prepare “Comparable Market Analysis” (CMA) to establish fair market value.
9. Obtain copy of subdivision plat/complex lay-out.
10. Research property’s ownership and deed type.
11. Research property’s public record information for lot size and dimensions.
12. Research and verify legal description.
13. Research property’s land use coding and deed restrictions.
14. Research property’s current use and zoning.
15. Verify legal names of owner(s) in county’s public property records.
16. Prepare listing presentation package with above materials.
17. Perform exterior Curb Appeal Assessment of subject property.
18. Compile and assemble formal file on property.
19. Confirm current public schools and explain impact of schools on market value.
20. Review listing appointment checklist to ensure all steps and actions have been completed.

Listing Appointment Presentation

21. Give seller an overview of current market conditions and projections.
22. Review agent’s and company’s credentials and accomplishments in the market.
23. Present company’s profile and position or niche in the marketplace.
24. Present CMA Results To Seller, including Comparables, Solds, Current Listings and Expireds.
25. Offer pricing strategy based on professional judgment and interpretation of current market conditions.
26. Discuss goals with seller to market effectively.
27. Explain market power and benefits of Multiple Listing Service.
28. Explain market power of web marketing, Internet Data Display and Realtor.com.
29. Explain the work the brokerage and agent do behind the scenes and agent’s availability on weekends.
30. Explain agent’s role in taking calls to screen for qualified buyers and protect seller from curiosity seekers.
31. Present and discuss strategic master marketing plan.
32. Explain different agency relationships and determine seller’s preference.
33. Review and explain all clauses in Listing Contract and Addendum and obtain seller’s signature.

Once Property Is Under Listing Agreement

34. Educate seller on anti-fraud measures to take when listing the home
35. Review current title information.
36. Measure overall and heated/air conditioned square footage.
37. Measure interior room sizes.
38. Confirm lot size via owner’s copy of certified survey, if available.
39. Note any and all unrecorded property lines, agreements, easements.
40. Obtain house plans, if applicable and available.
41. Review house plans and make copy.
42. Order plat map for retention in property’s listing file.
43. Prepare showing instructions for buyers’ agents and agree on showing time window with seller.
44. Obtain current mortgage loan(s) information: companies and loan account numbers.
45. Verify current loan information with lender(s).
46. Check assumability of loan(s) and any special requirements.
47. Discuss possible buyer financing alternatives and options with seller.
48. Review current appraisal if available.
49. Identify Home Owner Association manager, if applicable.
50. Verify Home Owner Association Fees with manager – mandatory or optional and current annual fee.
51. Order copy of Homeowner Association bylaws, if applicable.
52. Research electricity availability and supplier’s name and telephone number.
53. Calculate average utility usage from last 12 months of bills.
54. Research and verify city sewer/septic tank system.
55. Water System: Calculate average water fees or rates from last 12 months of bills.
56. Well water: Confirm well status, depth and output from Well Report.
57. Natural gas: Research/verify availability and supplier’s name and telephone number.
58. Verify security system, current term of service and whether owned or leased.
59. Ascertain need for lead-based paint disclosure.
60. Prepare detailed list of property amenities and assess market impact.
61. Prepare detailed list of property’s “Inclusions & Conveyances with Sale.” (fixtures, applicances)
62. Compile list of completed repairs and maintenance items.
63. Send vacancy checklist to seller if property is vacant.
64. Explain benefits of Home Owner Warranty to seller.
65. Have extra key made for lockbox or office key management system.
66. Verify if property has rental units involved. If so:
67. – Make copies of all leases for retention in listing file.
68. – Verify all rents and deposits.
69. – Inform tenants of listing and discuss how showings will be handled.
70. Arrange for installation of yard sign(s).
71. Assist seller with completion of Seller’s Disclosure form, if applicable.
72. Complete “New Listing Checklist.” and review data input fields with seller
73. Review results of your Curb Appeal Assessment with seller and provide suggestions to improve salability.
74. Review results of your Interior Décor Assessment and suggest changes to shorten time on market.
75. Load listing into transaction management software program.

Entering Property in Multiple Listing Service Database

78. Prepare MLS Profile Sheet – Realtor is responsible for quality control and accuracy of listing data.
79. Enter property data from Profile Sheet into MLS Listing Database.
80. Obtain signed mandatory disclosure forms and upload to the listing.
81. Proofread MLS database listing for accuracy – including proper placement in mapping function.
82. Add property to company’s Active Listings list.
83. Provide seller with signed copies of Listing Agreement and MLS Profile Sheet Data Form within 48 hours.
84. Take additional photos for upload into MLS and use in flyers. Discuss efficacy of professional/panoramic/virtual/drone photography.

Marketing The Listing

84. Create print and Internet ads with seller’s input.
85. Coordinate showings with owners, tenants, and other Realtors. Return all calls – weekends included.
86. Install electronic lockbox if authorized by owner. Program lockbox with agreed-upon showing time windows.
87. Prepare mailing and contact list, print or electronic.
88. Generate mail-merge letters to contact list.
89. Discuss open house options and video alternatives.
90. Prepare flyers and marketing materials.
91. Review comparable MLS listings regularly to ensure property remains competitive in price, terms, conditions and availability.
92. Prepare property marketing brochure for seller’s review.
93. Arrange for printing or copying of supply of marketing brochures or flyers.
94. Place marketing brochures in all company agent mail boxes.
95. Upload listing to company and agent Internet site, if applicable.
96. Mail Out “Just Listed” notice to all neighborhood residents.
    97. Advise any real estate Network Referrals of listing.
    98. Review Listing Syndication options and display.
    99. Provide marketing data to buyers coming from referral network.
    100. Provide “Special Feature” cards for marketing, if applicable.
    101. Submit ads to company’s participating Internet real estate sites.
    102. Price changes conveyed promptly to all Internet groups.
    103. Reprint/supply brochures promptly as needed
    104. Educate seller on showing and open house property safety
    105. Send Feedback requests to buyers’ agents after showings.
    106. Review weekly Market Study.
    107. Review reports to study home showing traffic online via Flex.
    108. Discuss showing reports and feedback from showing agents with seller to determine if changes will accelerate the sale.
    109. Place regular weekly update calls to seller to discuss marketing and pricing.
    110. Promptly enter price changes in MLS listing database.

The Offer And Contract

111. Receive and review all Offer to Purchase/Purchase and Sale contracts submitted
112. Evaluate offer(s) and prepare a “net sheet” on each for the owner for comparison purposes.
113. Counsel seller on offers. Explain merits and weakness of each component of each offer.
114. Contact buyers’ agents to review buyer’s qualifications and discuss offer.
115  Deliver Seller’s Disclosure to buyer’s agent or buyer upon request and prior to offer if possible.
116. Confirm buyer is pre-qualified.
117. Obtain pre-qualification letter on buyer from loan officer.
118. Negotiate all offers on seller’s behalf, setting appropriate time limit for loan approval and closing date.
119. Prepare and convey any counter offers, acceptance or amendments to buyer’s agent.
120. Deliver copies of contract and all addendums to closing attorney and/or title company.
121. When Offer to Purchase Contract is accepted and signed by seller, deliver to buyer’s agent.
122. Record and promptly deposit buyer’s earnest money in escrow account.
123. Disseminate “Under-Contract Showing Restrictions” as seller requests.
124. Deliver copies of fully signed Offer to Purchase contract to seller.
125. Fax/deliver copies of Offer to Purchase contract to Selling Agent.
126. Fax copies of Offer to Purchase contract to lender.
127. Provide copies of signed Offer to Purchase contract for office file.
128. Advise seller in handling additional offers to purchase submitted between contract and closing.
129. Change status in MLS to “Sale Pending.”
130. Update MLS and transaction management program to show “Sale Pending.”
131. Review buyer’s credit report results — advise seller of worst and best case scenarios.
132. Provide credit report information to seller if property will be seller-financed.
133. Assist buyer with obtaining financing, if applicable and follow-up as necessary.
134. Coordinate with lender on discount points being locked in with dates.
135. Deliver unrecorded property information to buyer.
136. Order septic system inspection, if applicable.
137. Receive and review septic system report and assess any possible impact on sale.
138. Deliver copy of septic system inspection report lender and buyer.
139. Deliver Well Flow Test Report copies to lender and buyer and property listing file.
140. Verify termite inspection ordered.
141. Verify mold inspection ordered, if required.

Tracking The Loan Process

142. Confirm verifications of deposit and buyer’s employment have been returned.
143. Follow loan processing through to the underwriter.
144. Add lender and other vendors to transaction management program so agents, buyer and seller can track progress of sale.
145. Contact lender weekly to ensure processing is on track.
146. Relay final approval of buyer’s loan application to seller.

Home Inspection

147. Coordinate buyer’s professional home inspection with seller.
148. Review home inspector’s report.
149. Enter completion into transaction management tracking software program.
150. Explain seller’s responsibilities with respect to loan limits and interpret any clauses in the contract.
151. Ensure seller’s compliance with Home Inspection Clause requirements.
152. Recommend or assist seller with identifying and negotiating with trustworthy contractors to perform any required repairs.
153. Negotiate payment and oversee completion of all required repairs on seller’s behalf, if needed.

The Appraisal

154. Schedule appraisal.
155. Provide comparable sales used in market pricing to appraiser.
156. Follow-Up on appraisal.
157. Enter completion into transaction management program.
158. Assist seller in questioning appraisal report, if questions arise.

Closing Preparations And Duties

159. Contract is signed by all parties.
160. Coordinate closing process with buyer’s agent and lender.
161. Update closing forms and files.
162. Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale.
163. Select location where closing will be held.
164. Confirm closing date and time and notify all parties.
165. Assist in solving any title problems (boundary disputes, easements, etc) or in obtaining Death Certificates.
166. Work with buyer’s agent in scheduling and conducting buyer’s final walk-through prior to closing.
167. Research all tax, Home Owner Association, utility and other applicable prorations.
168. Request final closing figures from closing agent (attorney or title company).
169. Receive and carefully review closing figures to ensure accuracy of preparation.
170. Forward verified closing figures to buyer’s agent.
171. Request copy of closing documents from closing agent.
172. Confirm buyer and buyer’s agent have received title insurance commitment.
173. Provide Home Owners Warranty for availability at closing.
174. Review all closing documents carefully for errors.
175. Forward closing documents to absentee seller as requested.
176. Review documents with closing agent (attorney).
177. Provide earnest money deposit check from escrow account to closing agent.
178. Coordinate this closing with seller’s next purchase and resolve any timing problems.
179. Have a “no surprises” closing so that seller receives a net proceeds check at closing.
180. Refer sellers to a Realtor at their destination, if applicable.
181. Change MLS status to Sold. Enter sale date, price, selling broker and agent’s ID numbers, etc.
182. Close out listing in transaction management program.

Follow Up After Closing

183. Answer questions about filing claims with Home Owner Warranty company, if requested.
184. Attempt to clarify and resolve any conflicts about repairs if buyer is not satisfied.
185. Respond to any follow-on calls and provide any additional information required from office files.
186.  Assist homeowners in finding answers to home related questions or projects.
187. Continue to cultivate network of homeowners to serve all clients in the future.