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(Note, the above is an example only. Commission rates vary by state law, it could be higher or lower.)
Building a new, custom home? Buying a new home?
Building with a custom builder like Toll Brothers, Pulte or any other builder?
If you're looking for your next home, why not get paid to do it?
We are a full service real estate company serving Virginia since 1995. We are here to guide you through the home buying process.
We can fully represent you just like any other full service agent or if you are willing to do some of the legwork - we can offer you a buyer rebate at closing.
Our rebate is simply an incentive for you to work with us. If you're searching for a home, why not get paid to do it?
Your real estate rebate will be on your closing statement. It can be used as a credit toward the purchase price of your home or against closing costs.
How to earn buyer real estate rebate at closing!
#1: Make sure you let any agent you come in contact with that you already have an agent, us, Cottage Street Realty, LLC.
If you do not do this, that agent will assume you are their buyer! This is critical!
Simply tell them you already have a buyer's agent and you're just out looking at homes.
#2: If you've just begun searching and have questions, E-Mail me.
Seeing homes you're interested in: Remember, the Listing Agent represents the Seller, NOT YOU, the Buyer.
Therefore it would be rare for a Listing Agent to let you in to view a home. Therefore, the easiest thing to do is simply stop by the home and ring the doorbell!
If the Seller is home, introduce yourself as a Buyer. Show them our "Smart Buy" form which tells them you are for real and legitimate.
You should also leave them with this AND our business card (remember to ask us to send some to you).
#3: Get pre-qualified: Most agents don't want to show a home to you unless you've been pre qualified. You should not look for homes unless you have been pre-qualified for a loan!
#4: Again, as you're searching for homes you will invariably speak to agents. Make sure you let them know that you already have an agent.
Otherwise they will think you are their prospective buyer.
#5: Once you find a home, we will provide you with our "Rebate contract". This verifies the rebate you'll receive at closing.
Calculating your rebate: The more work you do finding your home, the higher the rebate. The concept is simple. We know that you're actively searching for homes. The less time we spend showing you homes, the more you get back at closing.
NOTE: IF you're buying a new home from a builder in a subdivision just let the builder / developer know you have an agent and you receive the rebate.
This is very simple on new homes! You will not get a better deal going by yourself because then their in-house agent gets the full 6% (3% for the list side and 3% for the buyer side).
# of days / times we show you homes % of Rebate earned
0-1 day 50%
2 days 40%
3 days 30%
4 days 25%
Minimize our time with you. Drive by the outside and the neighborhood to see if you like the area. Knock on the seller's door. If you can't get in and really like it, then call us to see if we can get you into it - if not, then we will meet with you to show the property.
Potential resistance: Most Listing agents will expect me, your buyer’s agent to show the property. Since we may not be able to be there for every showing, the listing agent may agree to show you the property or we may be able to get the seller to show the property or they may have an open house.
Additionally, we may be able to meet you at the home to show it for you. Just give us advanced notice please.
IF YOU ASK THE LISTING AGENT TO SHOW YOU THE HOME AND THEY DON’T WANT TO
In the past, buyer’s agents scheduled AND attended showings. True, they want their listing sold but both listing agent and buyer’s agents have their “perceived” duties to earn their commission.
The listing agents phone number is generally found on the listing, if not you should be able to get an office roster or Google them or we can always get it.
When you call the listing agent to see their listing they may think that you don't have an agent since you're calling them direct. Inform them that you do have an agent but you wish to arrange the showing directly with them. (If you're not comfortable doing this, call us and we'll not only pull the mls sheet and get the data on the home, we'll schedule it for you).
Occasionally, they may be offended as the listing agent expects the buyer’s agent (Cottage Street Realty) to drive out and show you the property.
If the listing agent gives you resistance try the techniques below!
"I'm calling because I would like to see your listing at ____________. I have an agent but they're out of town and I wondered if you can show me the property. I am ready to buy and have my pre approval." I’ve narrowed my choices down to just a few homes and this one may be it!
I'm very interested in your listing on ____________________. Before I make an offer I want to see the property. I am using Cottage Street Realty as my agent. They represent me and do all of the paperwork and negotiating, but they typically don't accompany me to showings.
My agent is out of town but I would really like to get in to see your listing at ______. Can you tell me when a convenient time is for you? I’m pre approved, ready to buy and really like this home!
If you have any trouble scheduling a tour with a listing agent, just let me know and we will get you into the property.
Don’t let the rebate fool you. You are fully represented. We have been helping buyers and sellers since 1995. As your buyer’s agent, we are committed to getting you the lowest price and best terms on your next home!
With GoToFSBO.com and Cottage Street Realty, you have the best of both worlds; Flat fee listings to save you thousands selling and buyer rebates when you’re buying. We are committed to making the home buying and selling experience the best it can possibly be while saving you the most money possible.
Buyer Rebates are Legal - Here's what the DOJ (Department of Justice) says on Rebate, see the article here...