Frequently Asked Questions – I’d like to answer any questions you may have here than have you guess – because transparency is the whole point.
Why are your listing fees lower than most realtors?
I don’t price based on tradition. I price based on the work involved. If your home is show-ready and you’ve done the heavy lifting, I can offer a lower flat fee. If more work is required, I will adjust accordingly. I believe in fairness.
Do you offer full services at $8,500/$9500?
Yes, you still get full-service representation, including MLS exposure, professional photography, staging consultation, tailored marketing, and strong negotiation. The difference is how I price, not the level of service.
What if I don’t qualify for your special rates?
That’s where my Fair Fee Promise comes in. I keep my rate as cloose to those numbers as possible, based on the work required to sell your home. Contact me for more information.
Do you negotiate your commission?
No, I quote a fair price upfront based on the work involved. That’s the price I stand by. I’m fair but firm, and that’s exactly who you want negotiating your deal.
Are you a discount agent?
No, I don’t undercut my value. I just price based on value, not tradition. My goal is deliver full service quil helping you keep more of your equity.
The Selling Process
What determines how much you charge?
There are 3 things that go into this decision: 1. Capital investment (what I put into your listing), 2. Time to market (prep, guidance, effort), and 3. Time on market (how long the home may take to sell). And what I mean by “Time to Market” is the work required to get your home, and you, ready. This includes staging guidance, all necessary prep work, home repairs, market educaiton, and strategy. Some clients may need very little help, while others a bit more. Either way, I’m there to help.
Will I still get strong marketing if I pay a flat fee?
Absolutely. Your home is positioned properly with high-quality visuals, targeted marketing, and a strategy built to attract serious buyers.
Do you help with staging and preparation?
Yes, I will guide yout hrouguh what needs to be done and help coordinate the staging professionals if needed. The level of involvement depends on how much help you want.
Your Difference (this is where you WIN)
Why not charge 2.5% commission like most agents?
Because every home is different! Some require very little work, while others may require a lot. My pricing wil reflect that. In some cases, I’m below 1%, and others, I may be higher. It is based on value.
What makes your approach different?
I treat pricing like a contractor would – based on the actual work required. No blanket percentages, no hidden costs. Just a clear, upfront number.
Why do you use flat fees instead of percentages?
Percentages are abstract. A flat fee shows exactly what you are paying for, dollar for dollar. I believe you should see that clearly and be able to question it.
Who is your service best suited for?
Homeowners who want transparency, fairness, and control – especially those who have taken he time to prepare their home and want to keep more of their equity.
What’s your core philosophy?
Simply, I respect the equity you’ve built. I price based on value, not tradition. I don’t undercut my worth – I deliver it fairly.
You offer a buyer rebate for first time home buyers. Why not buyers and sellers?
Those clients already benefit from very competitive listing rates. For those clients, I offer enhanced value aimed at protecting the heart of the home. I reimburse inspection fees. I also pay for Summer and Smith elite 1 year service on AC and furnace worth up to $565.
Blake Dermott - Realtor 