Patch Blog: Are Realtor Fees Too High?

If you are thinking of buying or selling a home, then you probably would like to know what a Realtor does to justify those big fees, right?

What are you paying for?

By way of telling you what you should look for, I first want to tell you what NOT to look for. Have you ever heard of TaskRabbit.com? There are a number of websites like this - people who have little time to get things done can find people who have time and need to earn money. Tell the site what you want and they put you together with a TaskRabbit who will get it done. Event help, administration help, deliver, clean, pack - these are fairly low level tasks - and TaskRabbit finds a low cost way to get them done.

How does this relate to Real Estate?

I think most consumers consider Realtors as glorified TaskRabbits. They feel our job is to find a house, show a house, fill out the contract, make the appointments and find qualified professionals for inspections, title and escrow. Home sellers think we are paid to run splashy ads, staff the open house and bring them (as in, "deliver") a great offer. They see negotiation as little more than a messenger service provided by the agent. These are services that could be outsourced to a TaskRabbit - albeit a slightly more trained (and licensed) one.

It is little wonder that consumers feel we are overpaid.

Sadly, often, the consumer is not wrong. I find that many Realtors do little more than TaskRabbit service, though most are unaware of it. Many well intentioned Realtors are out there with little training and even less experience doing the very best job they can. They are accomplishing task after task in the name of "service," hoping that the client will be happy and that they will get paid.

But, opening a door or emailing a contract is NOT the service of a highly trained professional.

So, what does a highly trained professional do for you?

• Takes the time to truly understand your unique priorities
• Crafts a thoughtful strategy on how to deliver those priorities
• Makes sure you understand all your choices and the consequences of your choices
• Understands all the "What if's" and strategizes the best path for you
• Adjusts her workflow for your maximum convenience
• Is a brilliant problem solver
• Is your trusted advisor and advocate

As a Realtor, I don't find a house for you - I make it possible for you to own it. I don't bring buyers to your home - I find a way to maximize the entire marketplace for you. I don't email offers - I negotiate to the mat and deliver the best possible outcome for your final decision.

I am not a TaskRabbit.  I am a Realtor and I am licensed to negotiate.

Kendyl Young blogs daily at www.KendylsOpenHouse.com and she covers Glendale Home Values,  La Canada Flintridge Home Values and La Crescenta Home Values. You call or text her at 818-396-7588 or email kendyl@kendylyoung.com. Send amusing tweets to @kendyl.