Anonymous wrote:We like our realtor, but at this point we've been doing most of the work ourselves -- going to open houses, sending him listings we want to see, etc. He has spoken to listing agents on our behalf twice and sent us 1 or 2 off-market listings so we'd like to continue working with him. But I've heard that some realtors share a portion of the commission with their clients (in part to compete with firms like Redfin who offer this). Can anyone tell me how common this is and if your realtor has agreed to it?
I went straight to the advertised cash-back brokers. My experience:
Glass House: I really wanted that 2% back, but it wasn't worth working with someone who wasn't responsive. I saw a few Zillow reviews that were questionable. I didn't write a review, but I experienced the same thing the bad reviewers said about his lack of communication. In this competitive environment you need to act fast.
Keith Min: Super responsive, genuinely wants to do the best job he can for you. Bonus: licensed real estate attorney. Honest guy. Sent me to another firm who specializes in my targeted neighborhood. AND told me to call him if I needed anything from him, no obligation.
Rob Spicer: Everyone loves him. Offers different options, depending on how you want to use his services.
I talked to a few agents who didn't advertise as "cash-back", but they were willing to do 1% back. I would go with Keith Min or Rob Spicer. Keith is hands-on and committed to the buyer, in my experience. Rob Spicer will save you a ton of money if you know what you're doing and don't need him for the small stuff.