Frequently Asked Questions Relating To Exclusive Right To Sell Contracts

How long does the listing agreement last?
Most of the frequently asked questions that relate to exclusive right to sell contracts are not able to be answered with a universal answer.  When it comes to the length of a listing agreement, every real estate agent will have a different preferred length.  One thing to keep in mind when asking about the length of a listing agreement is the average days on the market.  If the average days on the market in your local real estate market are 75, a 90 day listing agreement may not be enough.

How much commission do you charge?

Commission is negotiable, period.  Don’t let any Realtor® tell you otherwise.  This being said, the saying “you get what you pay for,” often is true when it comes to real estate.  If a Realtor® offers a lower commission, do you think they will negotiate aggressively on your behalf when it comes to the price?  Also, if you were working for a reduced hourly wage from your “normal,” would you work as hard as you normally would?  The answer is likely not.  Choosing a Realtor® based solely on the fact they offer the lowest commission amount is a top mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor® to sell their home.

What happens if I’m not happy and want to cancel the contract?
This frequently asked question is not one sellers like to ask when selling a home, however, it can come up frequently.  The hope when selling a home is a quick sale and top dollar.  This isn’t always the case though. This is a case by case determination.

Do I need to provide permits or anything for my deck, shed, fencing, or additions?
Every municipality is different, but in general, when making an improvement or change to a piece of property or land, a certificate of compliance (and/or permit) is required.  When selling a home, potential buyer’s have the right to ask for certificates of compliance for any improvements, such as decks, patios, or sheds.  Some buyer’s may not ask for any permits and some may.  Technically, you do not need to provide any permits or certificates of compliance, however, you could lose a potential buyer over a simple fence permit.