Traditionally, real estate brokers have performed virtually all services related to buying and selling a home, including:
- Marketing the home.
- Marketing services include listing the property in the local multiple listing service (MLS), placing advertisements in local media and on the Internet, and hosting open houses.
- Reviewing contracts.
- Contract review might include providing advice on pricing, home inspections or other contractual terms.
- Negotiating with potential home buyers and sellers.
- Locating potential properties for prospective buyers.
- Arranging for prospective buyers to inspect properties.
- Providing prospective buyers and sellers with pertinent information about a community such as relative property values, most recent selling prices, and property taxes.
- Apprising potential buyers of financing alternatives.
- Assisting in the formation and negotiation of offers, counter offers, and acceptances.
- Assisting with the closing of the transaction.
- Closing services might include assistance with handling paperwork.
