I’ve written about my dilema in the past. Last year I gave up my membership in the Seattle-King County Association of Realtors. I’d become disenchanted from the beginning. In this area, SKCAR does not own the local MLS or Multiple Listing Services. Unlike many states, subscribing brokers like myself actually own the NWMLS, so it is not necessary to be a member of SKCAR to get access.
In the past, I have been a member of many different associations of realtors. I paid my membership dues, took a few classes and didn’t really see any benefit. I don’t have time to participate in their events, their classes are overpriced and most of all, their “code of ethics” seems like a farce. After being screwed by many of these so-called “ethical” agents that are simply members of the Association of Realtors, I realize that their “Oath of Ethics” is simply a marketing ploy.
The kicker came when they put in place an extra mandatory “assessment” on top of their already high membership costs. I had previously to drop my membership mindset, but that made me do it.
There are many excellent (and honest) real estate agents that are not a member of that organization. We all must get continual training and are subject to strict laws regarding actions of real estate agents and brokers. I can tell you that I have never met a non-realtor agent or broker who was any more unethical or dishonest than some of the realtors I have come across in my career.
Not being a member of the Association of Realtors, cuts my expenses and allows me to give my clients discounts on the services they need. Since I work out of my home, have my own advertising vehicle and limited costs, I can save my clients lots of money. As a buyers agent, in most cases, I can rebate up to 2% of the purchase price.
If you would like me to list your home, I only charge $595 to list it on the NWMLS and include FREE use of a lockbox, attractive AAA Properties signs and all the forms needed to sell your home – until it is sold.
If you want me to list and show your home, my listing fee is only 1% of the sales price, but in both cases you would also want to offer 2.5 to 3 percent to any other agent who brings a buyer with the ability to buy.
In all cases, I will always be honest and ethical and work very hard for my client – and you can be sure I will be able to discount my commissions – because I’m not a Realtor ………….
