What is MLS?

MLS® (Multiple Listing Service) is the most comprehensive computerized database of homes for sale with over 1.5 million listings nationwide. This database is used by Realtors to market and promote their own listings and to cooperate with other Realtors. Realtors, in turn, are compensated with part of the commission. A large portion of real estate transactions are a result of direct MLS exposure. As members of the MLS, Help-U-Sell is making this "prized possession" available to home sellers for a fraction of the cost! By having your home in MLS, it will be exposed to thousands of local real estate agents who otherwise would not have known that your property was for sale and would not have shown it. This is the same MLS used by a traditional broker who would charge you a full cost listing commission.

What is the difference between an eListing and an MLS Listing

An eListing markets your home to thousands of buyers through Help-U-Sell’s private and public marketplaces with the primary goal of finding a buyer for your home directly and you not having to pay a commission on the sale of your home. An MLS listing markets your home to Buyer agents that represent prospective buyers. With an eListing you are not obligated to commit to paying a buyer’s broker commission. With an MLS Listing, you do commit to paying a commission if an agent represents the buyer. With an eListing™, you will show your home directly to buyers. With an MLS listing, Help-U-Sell will schedule buyer broker appointments thru a lockbox system on your behalf. Both programs will dramatically increase your chance of finding a buyer for your home quickly and efficiently

What is REALTOR.com?

The official Internet site for the National Association of Realtors. REALTOR.com's 1.4 million home listings are provided by participating REALTOR Multiple Listing Services. Your home is accessible to individuals and Realtors with color pictures and all pertinent information (price, location, square footage, contact information, etc.) If a Realtor contacts you, shows your home and sells it then you would pay a selling commission. If an individual contacts you and buys your home YOU PAY NO COMMISSION!!!

Can I start with an eListing and upgrade to an MLS Listing at a later time?

Yes. Your fee for any of our “upgrade” programs will be reduced to reflect the fact that you already have an eListing.

Are you a “discount” broker?

No, What makes Help-U-Sell different is that we are a “fee for service” company. We have determined a very competitive fee for each component of a real estate transaction and we offer that to the public in a “no haggle” environment. Unlike traditional real estate, you don’t have to argue and bicker with us to get a super competitive rate! We don’t attempt to make a fortune from each family we deal with; we just deal with LOTS of families.

What if I sell my home myself?

If you sell your home without a cooperating Broker, no commission is due. You would have only invested $495.

Why does Help-U-Sell work?

Help-U-Sell works because a steadily increasing number of buyers are using the Internet to search for a home before they ever even consider speaking with a real estate agent. In fact, tens of thousands of buyers visit our websites each month. Buyers see Help-U-Sell homes as attractive because they recognize that they have the option of dealing direct with Seller without being separated by real estate agents. Most importantly, if you choose, then Help-U-Sell’s licensed consulting team will make sure that each transaction is legally binding and will monitor all steps to closing. As a seller, it is important to know that you can have professional help through out the entire process.

Won’t buyer’s agents boycott your listings?

No. Buyer brokers are indifferent as long as they are being paid their due. Our listings have been sold by nearly every major real estate company in the Front Range area and we have a long history of excellent relationship with our colleagues. Furthermore, its not likely that there will be another house just like yours (same price, size, condition, location, etc) on the market at the same time as yours with a higher listing commission BUT with the same co-op commission.

May a buyer contact me directly after a Realtor shows my home to them?

Yes. However, you will still be obligated to pay a selling commission to the Realtor who showed the home.

How does Help-U-Sell help me with the paperwork and legal steps?

With SellerPLUS or TransactionPlus, Help-U-Sell’s licensed consulting team will help you execute your transaction through closing. Once you find a buyer (either directly or through a buyer’s agent), simply call Help-U-Sell and one of our licensed real estate consultants will assist you with creation of the purchase agreement and steps to closing. If your home is listed are on the MLS, and you receive an offer from a buyer’s broker or one of our Realtors, then Help-U-Sell will facilitate the transaction thru to closing.. Help-U-Sell’s offices are open 7 days a week.

What is “full service?”

The question really should be, “What is full cost service?” Sadly, some brokers (regardless of company) list homes and then just put them in the MLS and wait for a contract to come in with no service provided beyond that. Many times after these listings expire, we end up interviewing with these unhappy sellers. We explain carefully to them what we do and what we don’t do -- the most common response – “Yeah, so?– I was paying 6 to 7% and didn’t get that much! We offer you a menu of services that lets you choose as much or as little service as you desire! AND we back it up in writing by making the specifics of the service and the marketing we are obligated to provide part of the listing agreement!

What advantages does Help-U-Sell offer as compared to a traditional Realtor®?

Help-U-Sell offers two advantages over traditional Realtors®: 1) Cost to sell your home will be 45% - 95% less than a traditional listing agent Realtor®; and 2) Help-U-Sell’s proprietary technology allows you to obtain up to date information about your home sale quicker and more efficiently than a traditional Realtor®. In fact, with our technology, you can be anywhere in the world and learn about the latest activity on your home.

What is “fee for service” or “a la carte services?”

To be contrasted with “full service.” “Fee for service” is where the full service package is separated into any number of component parts and combinations. In this arrangement, different services cost different fees, and these fees are usually not contingent upon an actual close of escrow. This arrangement is suited for todays more “e-savvy” Sellers and “for sale with owners” who want assistance with select parts of the process of selling their home, without having to pay traditional real estate’s higher full-cost fee.

Will a yard sign be provided?

A distinctive Help-U-Sell yard sign will be shipped directly to you within days, if unrestricted by Community Association rules.

What is Help-U-Sell’s success rate as compared to a traditional Realtor®?

Help-U-Sell’s sellers enjoy a nearly 72% success rate. This compared to an average of 63% for the traditional system (National Association of Realtor® statistics). Help-U-Sell has a slightly better success rate due to our Sellers having more flexibility to negotiate the purchase price since outrageous listing commissions are not part of the equation.

How do other agent’s view you?

When we first opened our doors in 1999, we know that other listing agents were not happy about having a competitor who called into question the traditional commission structure. Over these last 3+ years, and after a lot of first hand interactions with our fellow agents, we are known and respected as hard working and highly competent professionals who can be counted on to do our jobs well. We place a very high value on the quality of our cooperation with fellow agents.

How do other Realtors show my home?

If a Realtor would like to show your home, they will contact you directly to arrange an appointment or you may choose to use a lockbox system.

Are there any hidden fees that I don’t know about?

No. Help-U-Sell identifies all fees up front.

If your business model is so beneficial to clients and you alike, why aren’t other brokers doing it?

Traditional real estate brokerage is pretty entrenched, and very conservative. It is also very slow moving. But the Internet has really shaken things up, and changes are starting to appear. Large national chains are even starting to tinker with the traditional model (Coldwell Banker is test marketing a limited “fee-for-service” program in one city and Century 21 in another), and there have been several Internet start-ups taking a stab at simple discount brokerage. We expect that the rate of change within the industry will increase, bringing new choices to consumers. But where the traditional industry is seeking to “jump on the bandwagon,” Help-U-Sell Colorado Homefront is proud of doing “fee for service” BEFORE it was fashionable.

What is a lockbox?

A lockbox is a device that holds a key to your home. Only you and a licensed Realtor (assuming you give the code to no one else) will have access to this device. It is ideal for use when you are unavailable or away and want to make your home as accessible as possible.

How can Help-U-Sell charge such low fees for its services?

Our proprietary technology moves large portion of the steps necessary for a successful home sale online. Second, we provide our services in a centralized environment as opposed to building large “brick and mortar” offices with large numbers of agents doing very few transactions per year.

Do you also represent buyers?

Yes. Many of our sellers were once buyer clients, and of course, many of our sellers also want to buy again. We also have buyer brokers who specialize in working with buyers. For those buyers that are willing to partner with us in the search for their home we have special incentives.

What happens when I receive an offer?

We discourage verbal agreements; the agreement with you buyer should be put into writing to be legal. You may handle the contract yourself if you feel comfortable or you may hire a real estate attorney. Also, Help-U-Sell offers Contract Management as an “add on” thru our Transaction Plus Program or as part of the program thru MLS Plus. With either Transaction Plus or MLS Plus Help-U-Sell will write the contract and handle the transaction thru to Closing.

Am I locked into a 6-month listing contract with Help-U-Sell?

No. You have complete flexibility with the length of time you choose to remain with Help-U-Sell. Traditional “Full Cost” Realtors® usually mandate a 6-month listing commitment.

So why do so many people still list with 6% charging agents?

It is a most puzzling question for us, and probably has several answers. First, we think many sellers don’t realize that commissions are negotiable. The big real estate companies spend a lot of effort training their agents to push the service-side perception of their offering and avoid the issue of fees. To defend their traditional pricing structure, many agents will argue that “if you pay less, you will get less.” Its all a smokescreen, of course. There is no shortage of unhappy sellers who paid 6%. Loyalty is another reason, as sellers will often return to the agents who helped them buy their house initially and find it difficult to “arm wrestle” commissions when they didn’t have to as a buyer. We definitely cherish the same long-term relationship with our past clients; however, we still work towards having sellers take a closer look at a choices that can save them thousands of dollars.

Is a picture of my home taken? Will my picture be on the Internet?

If you have an eListing then it will be your responsibility to deliver a digital exterior photograph of the Property to Help-U-Sell and we will post it. If you have an MLS listing, then the exterior photo of the home will be taken by the MLS company.

Will my listing look the same as those who have agreed to pay a full listing commission to a traditional agent?

Yes. Your listing will the same “look” as the other listings on your local MLS.

How long before my home will be on MLS and REALTOR.com?

Your home will be on the MLS and HELPUSELL.com within 24 hours of receipt and acceptance of the listing agreement and the other forms proviced to you and soon after on REALTOR.com.

How will I know if my property is listed with all of the correct information?

You will receive a copy of your MLS listing by email or fax and you can verify the accuracy of the information presented.

Is this the same MLS?

Yes, it is exactly the same Realtor MLS used by agents in your local area.

How is Help-U-Sell involved? What Is their role?

Help-U-Sell can be as involved as you want us to be. Service can range from Internet advertising with no offers of cooperation to ANY real estate brokers to our Internet MLS listing services and up to extreme full service plans with custom marketing. Its your money and its your decision.

How do I sign up (list my Home)?

Signing up is as EASY AS 1,2,3!. On the “Home” page of our eHomefront Website “click” on “Seller-List Your Home” button. Select the package with the best combination marketing and transaction assistance for you.

Step One, provide us with Seller and Property Information.

Step Two, accept the “plain English” Listing Agreement and arrange payment.

Step Three, print out and complete the contract and listing forms, fax them to Help-U-Sell and you are on your way!

What if I sell my house on my own?

This is yet another benefit that sets us apart from your typical Realtor. When you list your home through Help-U-Sell’s eHomefront you pay a flat fee of just $395 (eListing) or $495 (MLS); however, you still have the right to sell your home on your own. If you find your own buyer with no buyer’s broker, then you will not have to pay ANY commission on the sale.

How should I price my home?

If you are internet advertising with us only and are opting to limit Realtor participation regarding listing your home we recommend you have the home appraised by a licensed appraisor. If you work with Help-U-Sell through the MLS Plus or higher plans then we will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis which may provide you with a pricing comfort level or you may decide to use the services of an appraiser anyway.

If Help-U-Sell brings me a buyer and sells my home, then will I owe a “buy-side” commission?

If you opt for the MLS program then “yes.” If a Help-U-Sell broker brings you a qualified buyer to you and they purchase your home, we are entitled to the buyers' agent's commission for selling your home since we are acting as the buyers' broker. If you opt for the eListing program which does not offer a “co-op” commission to anyone, then we will call and get your permission for a buy side commission before our buyer broker shows the Property.

What happens if a real estate agent calls Help-U-Sell directly?

All agent inquiries will be directed to you unless you opt for MLS Plus in which case Help-U-Sell will set all showings on your behalf.

If I find a buyer on my own, how much deposit should I ask for?

We recommend that your earnest money deposits be about 1% of the sale price. The larger the earnest money, the more qualified and serious your buyer is. This helps to justify your taking the house off the market. It is also recommended that you have the Title Company hold the earnes monies.

What are open houses? Are they necessary?

Open Houses, typically conducted on Sundays, make your house available to buyers and real estate agents for showings and previews. Many sellers have great success with open houses. Generally, the more exposure your home has to the public and the Realtor community, the better.

When a potential buyer calls, is there anything in particular that I should ask them before showing my home to them?

It’s always a good idea to get the buyer’s name and phone number in advance, that way you can confirm the appointment and then follow up after the showing. Potential buyers are more likely to show up for the appointment when they know you have their name and phone number. It’s a good idea to about the buyer’s financing arrangements before agreeing to show your home so you don’t show your home to financially unqualified buyers and waste your time. Remember, there is a big difference between "pre-qualified" and "pre-approved" with regard to mortgage financing. One is a "looks good" position, while the other is an actual commitment to fund a loan. Also, it's a good idea to verify the buyer’s name and phone number in either the phone book or on the internet, so that you can protect yourself and your valuables. Keep in mind that you are inviting strangers into your home and your safety and security of property is always concern.

Do you accept payment by credit card?

Yes, Help-U-Sell accepts payment with major credit cards including VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS and DISCOVER.

What is a final walk-through?

The Colorado contract allows buyers to do a “final walk-through” of the property just prior to the closing (usually within 48 hours of closing). This is to ensure that the property is in the same condition that it was in when the buyer bought it and to make sure that all inspection conditions specified within the contract are met before the closing takes place.

Should I be concerned about lead-based paint?

If your home was built before 1978, you are required by law to provide the buyer with the lead-based paint disclosure, plus you must provide the EPA pamphlet entitled, "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home". We recommend that this paperwork be filled out and provided on ALL transactions.

Should I be concerned about radon gas?

Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas and it is impossible to detect without testing for it. If you have questions, call the EPA's National Radon Hotline toll-free at 1-800-767-7236.

What are the three most important things you need to sell your home?

The real answer is: "exposure, exposure, EXPOSURE!" and that makes you a winner. Nowhere else will your property get as much exposure than with Help-U-Sell.