North Texas Real Estate Blog

As you set out to buy or sell your home in Southlake, Texas, Colleyville, Keller TX real estate, or a Grapevine TX home, be sure that you haven’t let any hearsay or myth disturb your presence of mind.  Buying or selling real estate in North Texas can be stressful anyway.  So, let’s clear up some common points of confusion.

Before we get started, we’d like to remind you to ask us about properties in H.E.B—short for Hurst, Euless, and Bedford, Texas homes—that may be available during the current housing difficulties.  You might find a hidden gem right here in our Featured Listings.  “Click your mouse for your new house!”

Now, the first fact is that there is a difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor.  These terms are not synonymous.  The State of Texas licenses real estate agents to represent clients in real estate transactions.  A Realtor, on the other hand, is voluntary member of a professional organization that has chapters around the United States.  This professional organization requires its members to operate by a code of ethics.  It also provides resources and options that assist real estate agents to better serve you.  All Realtors are real estate agents but not vice versa.

Next, we’d like to point out that licensed real estate agents in Texas are only legally required to provide very minimal services.  This is why you may see advertisements from some agents who may offer to sell your home for only a couple hundred dollars.  Legally speaking, real estate brokers are only required to accept and pass along offers and counteroffers to their clients, help the client to develop and present offers and counteroffers, and answer questions relating to offers and counteroffers.

There is not such a thing as a standard commission.  There are wide variations from one firm to the next for services.  Besides those who charge a bare minimum, others market their top-dollar no-worries services to target buyers and sellers that can afford their rates.  You may see real estate agents charge set commissions based on the sales price; a flat fee for services, regardless of sales price; or a menu of services to select from, similar to ala carte dining.

And, finally, realize that a well-reputed Realtor can help you to buy at the best price and to prepare your home for sale at the best possible market value.  Myth:  Real estate agents are trying to run away with your equity.  Fact:  They can save you money and hopefully make the transition period shorter.  Why not find your dream home in a day or sell your home within a week?  You will be able to get along with your life and dreams.

Contact Dave Warden at (817) 706-3291 or e-mail dave@davewarden.net for the inside scoop and details about real estate in the area.