STORY: Go to the best pro

Not surprised to read this article, "Cutting out the middle man," about builders who are now real estate licensees. Is the theory to save on the cost of sales, or promote their personal inventory? What is being saved by the buyer, and for the benefit of whom?

I can certainly see that many people in the building industry need to make additional revenue in this economic climate, with few homes being built. They choose to save by cutting on-site sales staff, not offering buyer incentives, or paying a seasoned real estate professional to help sell their homes... all ways to cut corners. The next thing they consider is becoming the real estate agent, too. How many more hats can they wear effectively?

Another issue that many consumers may not have a full grasp of is Idaho Real Estate Laws pertaining to Agency and how you may be represented in a transaction, especially when the Agent/Builder/Broker has a personal interest in the property for sale. Transparent disclosures pertaining to ownership of the property must be provided, and how you will be represented in the transaction should be discussed in the beginning of the process, and needs to be acknowledged in writing.

Questions to ask:

Who will represent me?

Will you negotiate, for me, on the items I would like included in the offer?

Who will help with all the terms and conditions that are important to me, and that will protect my interest?

Having been a broker/owner for many years, liability for the actions of my agents in a transaction is a significant and time consuming task to monitor. Adding the responsibility of an agent who has expertise in other areas of the housing industry adds another layer of liability and responsibility for those claims, in my opinion.

"Jack of all trades... Master of none" comes to mind. If you need an operation do you go to an accountant? What about for a toothache? A dentist is my choice.

What about the largest purchase or sale you may make in your life? Hire a seasoned Realtor to represent you. Builders build houses and most are quite good at that.

KAREN CORCORAN

Coeur d'Alene