Re: lower commissions
When a realtor doesn't show a property because the selling commission is too low, it's not about "punishing" the seller as much as it is a big F U to the list agent. And rightfully so, IMO. A smart seller should be making sure the selling commission is at least close to the going rate, and if it isn't, the seller should be questioning their listing realtor as to why he or she is not offering it.
Remember that the selling agent is the one that is more or less in control of the buyer's money, so if that agent is not motivated to sell your property, how will it ever sell? Dual agency?
There is no such thing as a unique property when it comes to regular residential real estate, at least, not in Calgary where all the houses were built in waves that almost all conform to similar codes and styles. Maybe in places like Mount Royal or Eagle Ridge there are "unique" homes, but you're never going to see a We List sign in there, or any of the bargain realty companies either.
For the record, I happen to think that the current industry norm of 7/3 is a bit high, but that's beside the point. If you are serious about buying or selling, use an agent that is serious as well. And any serious agent is not going to go around doing the same job as the next guy for half the price. If he is, you should probably wonder why. And if it bothers you that realtors make a nice chunk of change per deal, then go get your license and try doing it yourself.
Sorry for my a-holishness here. I come from a family of realtors and land developers. I've been in and around this industry since before I could walk. There's a lot of money to be made in real estate, but if you think it's easy, you're a fool. You might as well be doing all your mechanical work, and replacing your furnace, and writing your wills, and farming your own food as well. I'm not saying it's rocket science, I'm saying it's a full time job with no guarantee at the end of the month that you're going to get a cheque.
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