Questions about the Agent

How do real estate agents get paid?

I work for a commission. I am paid when the sale goes through. If a deal falls apart, I makes nothing for my efforts. I do not receive any up-front moneys.

The seller's broker splits the commission 50-50 with any other broker who brings a buyer. Before I am paid, expenses are deducted from the commission such as advertising, overhead costs for the office and various other expenses that are associated with the real estate office.This expense can run from 40 to 50% of the selling or listing side.

Also, agents incur expenses as the cost of doing business -- auto, gasoline, computer, access to Multiple Listing Service, errors and omissions insurance, just to name a few of them. I am also responsible for establishing my own retirement plan and paying medical insurance. These are just a few of the expenses that I personally incur.

Why would I want to work this way rather than receive a salary from another type of job?

I love working with people. I love seeing my clients thrilled with the results I bring them. I love having this long-term commitment to bringing safe harbor to my clients.

Preparing for Listing

What do you do when you put my house up for sale? Can you give me a step by step process so I will know how you work?

Please note my marketing calendar for you. This is of course tailored for your particular needs; but this gives you a good idea of what you can expect. My commitment to your needs is full and I will keep you posted every step of the way.

Marketing Calendar (116 kb, opens in separate window)

Why should I order a termite report?

I recommend to every seller that they order a termite report. It is an inspection of your home by a licensed structural pest control operator looking for infestation by wood-destroying termites, pests and different organisms. This inspection will also alert you to conditions that may come up in the future. For further information, please call me.

Pest Patrol Story (opens in separate window)

What should I know about earthquake faults?

While they don't come often, earthquake preparedness is a big concern in the East Bay. No part of the region is at all immune to their effects, although proximity to a fault increases the risk of damage. Proper reinforcement by a licensed earthquake engineer has the triple benefit of increased safety, reduced home insurance rates, and greater resale value.

Fault Map for North Berkeley and Kensington (256 kb, opens in separate window)

What should I know about the Sewer Lateral Laws?

If you're selling a house in El Cerrito, Kensington, or the Richmond Annex, this article is for you. Effective September 6, 2005, the Siege Sanitary District requires that sellers prove that their sewer lateral lines are operating properly—meaning they aren't leaking into the ground or affecting the drainage sys¬tem that flows to the Bay. This is a common problem, as old clay-pipe sewer lines often crack, subside, or are invaded by tree roots.

Before escrow can close on the house sale, you must get a certificate from the district, in one of several ways. You can repair the sewer lateral, replace it, or videotape the inside of the lateral to show the district that it is in good shape. The process is described on Stege's website at Click Here

Stege is aware that meeting this requirement during short escrow periods may be difficult, so it urges owners to have the lateral video¬taped as soon as they decide to sell, and get the tape to the district quickly. Stege's new policy mirrors that of the cities of Alameda and Albany, which enacted similar requirements in recent years. "I've been impressed with how Albany has embraced the program," says Ann Chaney, who heads that city's Community Development Department. "It's working very smoothly, and is starting to be picked up nationally."

Do not be afraid to remove a tree!

Sometimes an old tree is taking up the space, light and color of your home. I have a wonderful group of licensed tree removal specialists who do the job quickly, efficiently and best of all without harming any of your other vegetation. I cannot impress upon you what a difference it makes when selling your home. Some cities do require permits. As your Realtor I am delighted to help you obtain all the information you need.

I do not like the number address on my house. I feel the number does not bring me the best of luck. As your Realtor, please let me know if I can help you in obtaining a more compatible address number. As your Realtor I may be able to obtain this stroke of good luck for you.

Are you new to the area? As your Realtor, I can obtain maps,school information, hospitals, banks and various other needs and being a restaurant goer, suggest some wonderful eateries you will enjoy.

YOUR PROFITS WILL BLOOM WITH LILLIE

© 2002 Lillie Braudy. All rights reserved.