Question:
We are considering selling our house ourselves and save the commission. We have friends who have done this on a local website and they had no problems. We have read in your columns that a REALTOR® is a professional trained in the buying and selling of real estate, and we understand that, but it really looks easy enough to us that we think we want to do it ourselves.

Answer:
Larry & Carol B.

Dear Larry & Carol In past columns we have encouraged the use of a professional in the selling of your home. A REALTOR® is indeed that professional trained to do this job. REALTORS® need to take a rigorous training regime before they are licensed to practice. They are governed by a regulatory body that insures they are acting in the best interests of those they represent. Finally they have access to a wealth of information regarding the performance of properties similar to yours regarding listing and selling prices. REALTORS® are required to update their skills on an ongoing basis, which keeps them attuned to the variances and regulations on the sale of property in the province. All these things should assure you that you are receiving good value for your dollar, but there is one other part of this that needs to be said. REALTORS® are a part of the community you live in. The person who coaches your child’s sport team, the lady who sings beside you in the church choir, a fellow member of your service club, may be a REALTOR®. They add to the fabric and character of the community we live in. REALTORS® also earn their money in the community they live in and return that money by supporting the economic life of the community. The lady buying a new car from you, the fellow at the lumber yard buying a garage package, the person buying flowers for their clients in their new homes may be a REALTOR®. They are supporting the economic life of the community they live in. REALTORS® pay property taxes just like you do. They contribute to charities, their children schools, and their churches just like you do. They are entitled to earn a living in the community as much as anyone else. When you decide to not use the services of a REALTOR® you make it difficult for them to remain part of the community, and impossible for them to financially contribute to the community.

In the final analysis, Larry & Carol the decision to sell your property is yours to make. Since you have heard the reasons why you should use the services of a REALTOR® from earlier columns it might be good to hear what else can affect your decision in the community we live in.

The Moose Jaw Real Estate Board reserves the right to print only those questions that they deem appropriate. If you would like to have a personal response to your question include your name & address and a reply will be forwarded to you.

Address your inquires to:
Ask A REALTOR®
c/o Moose Jaw Real Estate Board
79 Hochelaga St. W.
Moose Jaw, SK
S6H 2E9