West Palm Beach Real Estate Agents

The home buying or selling process can be a confounding experience, filled with many details and paperwork that at times may seem daunting. That’s why it’s important to choose the right West Palm Beach real estate agent to help you through the transaction. Real estate agents and brokers are licensed and regulated by the state they are in. And all agents and brokers must meet state-mandated levels of education, training and testing.

It is standard practice for the seller to pay commission to the real estate agent or agents involved in the transaction. The commission rate is traditionally somewhere between 5% and 7% of the final sale and is split between the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent.

There are approximately four different types of West Palm Beach real estate agents. Knowing the difference is helpful when you are ready to choose a real estate agent.

• A listing (seller’s) agent represents the seller. The seller’s agent is hired to market and sell the home, and help the seller get the very best price possible.

• New home (condo) sale agents work for a builder or developer of a planned community or condominium building. They typically try to sell the new home at a higher price in the developer or builders best interest.

• Exclusive buyer agents are associated with brokers who work only for homebuyers. These agents will not take clients who are selling and therefore can work totally in the buyer’s interest, helping the buyer find the right property and the best deal possible.

• Dual agents may attempt to represent buyer and seller in a transaction. This can result in a conflict of interest, since it is difficult to fully serve each party’s interests. This arrangement may not be optimal for the buyer because the agent will work harder to sell the property at the highest price possible.

Interview several agents before you make a selection. Ask about their fee structure. Find out if they are exclusive buyer agents. Determine how well they understand the market and how savvy they are about new real estate opportunities in the area or ways to help you save money and get the best upgrades. Your agent will be your partner; you should feel comfortable that they will work hard to find the house, condo or property that’s right for you and your family.