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Property for sale, Spain, buying property, Spain, apartments, villas, townhouses, for sale, Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Spain Residential Property for sale in Spain Home | Spanish Shop | Photo Library | Message Board | Classified Ads | Property | Currency Converter | Site Map | Stats | Search | Advertise | About Us | Contact Us Property in Spain - Buying Information & Agents Introducing the new service from idealspain.com www.idealspain-properties.com - Properties for sale & to rent throughout the whole of Spain Western Costa del Sol - Make your dream a reality! From Malaga to Gibraltar and inland to Granada. You give us your ideal property requirements then we find you your perfect property. No need for estate agents - we provide the perfect solution! Free of charge to the buyer. www.CostaBlancaHomes.org.uk - The UK's personal assistant in finding property in Spain & abroad - Use our FREE service to find that dream home. The UK's personal assistant in finding property in Spain & abroad Costa Blanca North , Costa Blanca South , Costa Del Sol , Almeria , Florida , South Africa & Thailand . www.properties-espana.co.uk - We have a good selection of both new and resale properties in Costa Blanca , Costa del Azahar , Costa Almeria , and Tenerife . We are not tied to any one developer, and can therefore give you a larger choice. We also have properties in Portugal, Cyprus and Turkey. Absolute Estates offers properties throughout the whole of Spain and other worldwide destinations. We have properties to meet everyone's needs whether it be inland, beachfront, marina, mountain or golf. For golf properties, visit our sister company, specialist in this area, www.golfworldproperties.com . All Seasons Property - New and resale properties, businesses, investment projects, off plan developments. Whatever type of investment opportunity you are considering we can offer expert advice and guidance. All areas of Spain covered as well as Portugal, Florida, Morocco, Bulgaria and Turkey. Athena Property Sales Spain - NO GIMMICKS, NO HARD SELL, just all types of properties throughout Southern Spain cheaper than any other Agent. Whether you prefer Inland or Coastal, we have them all. CHEAPER PROPERTIES GUARANTEED! Just visit our website and see for yourself! Beach & Golf Properties - Over 1600 properties from only 55,000 on the Costas Blanca, Calida, Almeria, del Azahar & Tropical . Clients booking 1-1 inspection visits enjoy complimentary full board accommodation in stylish 4* hotels and up to 1000 cashback on selected new developments. Casa Sierra Villas currently have a range of new properties available for purchase on various residential golf developments throughout Costa Blanca . Casa Sierra Villas is proud to be an Approved Direct Sales Agent representing San Jose. Country Estate - 1000's of Inland and Country Spanish properties for sale direct from the owner. Covering the areas of Malaga, Granada, Murcia, Cadiz, Sevilla, Extremadura, Cordoba and Almeria . Free professional and independent advice. CrawfPro Spain SL - CrawfPro is a private company based in Granada, selling select homes in the area. We can also find your property, survey it, lead the buying process, inspect construction, manage your project, look after your property and deal with bureaucracy. Don't be alone. Design A Deck Spain - The Costa del Sol's leading hardwood timber deck builder . We build custom decks, screened & open porches, sunrooms, gazebos, pergolas, arbores, pool & spa decks and many other outdoor structures. 100% reliable and professional service. DM Estates - Marbella Property - If you are looking to buy a holiday home or invest in property in the Marbella area on the Costa del Sol , you will find it here. DM Estates offers thousands of resales and a complete list of new developments. Dream Homes Worldwide - International Real Estate Specialists for Property Investments in Spain, including Costa Calida , Murcia , Costa de la Luz , Off-Plan Villas, Townhouses & Apartments Free Buyers Guide Advice Espaa por favor - Looking for Spanish Property to buy or rent? We have properties from ALL OVER SPAIN ! Find your Spanish Dream Home NOW! Fiesta Property Services - We specialise in commercials and provide an honest, legal and reliable service. In business, in the Costa del Sol, for over 5 years with 100s of satisfied clients. We have the largest selection of bars, cafes, restaurants and shops for sale on the Costa del Sol and we offer a complete, service with help from start to finish. Gecko Getaways - Catering for holidaymakers' and property buyers' specific requirements is what makes Gecko Getaways different. - Property Sales and Rentals throughout the whole of Spain, covering all the Costas, Canary and Balearics Islands. Get Spain - A FREE guide to buying property in Spain that could save you a fortune on your property purchase. Follow just 3 steps in this easy to read report and you could save as much as 18,500 euros when you buy a house in Spain. www.getspain-spain.com/property_spain.html . Get Spain Valencia - We offer buyers a free impartial service, ensuring that they find the property they want at the right price, 'we are not estate agents', let us guide you through your purchase and take the leg work away, visit us now. Goulbourn Associates - Well established British Real Estate Agents offering friendly but professional advice. Listing many coastal, rural and "off plan" properties all within 1 hour of Malaga airport. ( Costa del Sol ). Excellent website with lots of useful information for potential buyers. Spanish Property from HomeEspana - HomeEspana are an established estate agents selling a large selection of coastal and inland properties on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida . Browse our online database now, or take advantage of our individually tailored property inspection trips for just 129. Homes & Fincas - Properties in the Costa de la Luz . Ayamonte, Isla Canela, Costa Esuri, Islantilla, El Rompido, Nuevo Portil, Punta Umbria, Cartaya, Huelva and Gibraleon. the Spanish Algarve is still a secret corner. " How to Buy a Spanish Property Book " - Learn how to safely buy your Spanish property; legally control or even eliminate Property, Capital Gains, Wealth and Income Taxes; learn vital facts about Health Care, Pensions, Mortgages and Car Registration! Written by UK Barrister Barry Spencer-Higgins LL.B(Hons) - Only 4.99 Hudson International Properties - Specialist property service for sales & long lets. Luxury properties in the best locations from Marbella to Sotogrande. Professional relocation service also available. Inmo Associates Real Estate S.L. - Based in Moraira ( Costa Blanca ) we offer a wide selection of apartments and Villas in Moraira , Benissa, Benitachell, Calpe, Javea, Dénia, and the surrounding areas. Take a look at our website for some great deals. Inmobiliaria Port is a local Real Estate Agency specialising in the management of all types of properties, both sales and rentals, in the area of Pollensa, Puerto Pollensa and Cala San Vicente . Having been established for 12 years our experience guarantees the quality of our services. International Property Shop - If you are looking for a new home to buy in Spain, Portugal, Cyprus or Turkey we can help you find the ideal property. We have an extensive range of property for sale in the Costa Blanca , Costa del Azahar , Costa Almeria , Costa Tropical and Tenerife . Tel: 08456 446686 I want a property in Spain - Really useful information about Spain, the Spanish property market & helpful advice on the best way to secure your dream home. Properties throughout Spain; Costa Blanca , Costa Almeria , Costa del Sol , Costa Brava , Costa Calida , Costa de la Luz , Balearics & Canary Islands . UK based and always available for you to contact. Living the Dream with Costa Blanca Homes - The UK's personal assistant in finding property in Spain & abroad - Use our FREE service to find that dream home. The UK's personal assistant in finding property in Spain & abroad Costa Blanca North , Costa Blanca South , Costa Del Sol , Almeria , Florida , South Africa & Thailand . MoversandStorers.co.uk - National & International Domestic and Office Relocation experts. Est 1983. M&G offer the most dedicated, personal and professional service for those moving to or from Spain and the UK. Visit our website or call us and find out why we are number 1. sales@storage-removals.co.uk . Pass the Phone, the telephone helpline - Personal translator at the end of your phone 24 hours. Simply speak to an operator, explain the problem, Pass the Phone and we will translate for you. Remember you're never alone with Pass the Phone - Call: 965 794 899 Platinum Properties in Spain offers a wide selection of Spanish properties for sale at the Costa del Sol and the Costa Calida . Buy now a Spanish property and pay nothing for up to 24 months. PropertiesAbroad.com - Agents UK based as seen on ITV 'I want that House'. Expert impartial advice on what and where to buy. 20 years experience finding properties for our clients all over Spain . Tell us what you are looking for and we will find it for you. Property-in-spain.ws - We have property all over Spain and specialize in all property sectors to ensure we can service every aspect of our client's property concerns. We also have very reputable and respected partners whom we have partnered so that we can increase and better the service we offer to our clients. Collectively, we have over 4500 properties. Pure Overseas Property - provide superb quality low price properties in Costa Almeria, Costa Blanca, Costa Calida, Costa del Sol, Costa Tropical. We have properties Off Plan with deposits from as low as 15,000 including IVA. Real Rural Properties - A dynamic real estate agency dealing with inland village houses and other properties. in some of the most beautiful locations in inland Spain . Whatever your dream we have real estate to suit everyone. Undiscovered properties in the provinces of Murcia , Granada and Andalucia . Ribera & Desai Inmobiliaria - With new and resale properties along the Costa Brava , Blanca , Calida and Costa del Sol , our property specialists will help you find the perfect property and guide you step by step through the buying process. Click here for more information and to view our properties . Right Move SL - Their philosophy has been, and always will be, to put the customer at the centre of all they do. Specialising in new developments and resale properties in the Costa del Sol , and throughout Spain . Choose from over 2,300 resale properties and 300 new developments in Spain. Sanitas Health Plan Complete - In safe hands in Spain - Whether you're escaping to the sun during the winter months or working in the country for the whole year, Sanitas Health Plan Complete will help you take advantage of the highest quality health care options. Visit this link for further information . Simply Andalucia Country Property Consultants - Specialising in rural properties inland from the Costa del Sol we are the number one choice for those looking to move or invest in Spain. As members of the N.A.E.A, Homelink and F.I.A.B.C.I. you can be assured of a pleasant & professional service at all times. Simply Andalucia "Making the Country Lifestyle, Your Lifestyle!" Solseeker Properties - When you want to invest abroad or buy a home instead of a house you need a reliable partner. Solseeker has many properties, new and resale in Valencia , Costa Blanca , Costa Calida and Almeria . For your personal service, visit us. Spanish Villas - New & Resale, coastal and rural villas, fincas, apartments and land on the Costa Blanca . We are independent and not tied to any one inmobiliaria or builder. We can find the right property for you. Top 10 Spanish Properties - lists the best new developments available in Spain . If you are looking for a new house or apartment in Spain for an investment, holiday home or permanent residence look no further. WSI - Start Your Own Business and Profit from the Internet! Now in its 10th year of business, WSIs systems are used by over 1000 franchisees in 87 countries around the world. Currently rated the "#1 Fastest Growing Business Services Franchise" and the "4th Fastest Growing Franchise in the world" , WSI has established one of the most profitable Franchise Opportunities in the world today with a Proven Business System! Home or office based. Complete Training and Support. No Business experience required. For your free information package & CD please visit: www.wsicorporate.com . Learn Spanish Today for FREE! Learn Spanish the interactive and fun way! Our web site will help you learn Spanish free of charge. Not just a few Spanish verbs, but over 500 words of the Spanish language, including complete Spanish phrases and sentences. Watch our free online demo that plays the first 15 minutes of a lesson. In this demo, the in program manual is displayed on the screen. spanish-online.co.uk Spanish book, cd and cd-rom publishers. User-friendly material for complete beginners to intermediate level. To make the most of our great offers, use the promotional code IDEALSPAIN on our online shop. Intasure - Insurance for your holiday home in Spain - Property insurance for expatriates in Spain - Comprehensive golf cover 365 days of the year which covers theft of equipment, medical expenses, travel, public liability and even hole in one cover - Low, low cost travel insurance. Avro is the UK's leading charter flight-only company, selling over one million seats every year. We have recently expanded and now offer scheduled flights to destinations worldwide, with flights available from over 70 of the world's leading airlines. Bookings.org - The best selection of Hotels, at great prices, throughtout Spain... View Special offers here & 5,166 Golf courses in Europe - Find golf courses in Spain, view pictures of all courses with maps. Book nearby hotels online . Car Hire Booking Centre Online together with IdealSpain.com - Created with one main objective; to offer clients the best vehicles with the best service at unbeatable prices. Why pay more when BOOKING CENTRE ONLINE offers MORE THAN THE REST, CHEAPER THAN REST? Car hire throughout Spain, the Canary & Balearic Islands . Hotel Club - The fast and secure service offering savings of up to 60% on your accommodation. To view Specials click here . PHA Travel has been offering independent advice on Health and Travel Insurance since 1995. Now in our 8th year this site provides our best selling value for money Travel Insurance from a range of reputable travel insurance companies. All policies are underwritten at Lloyds of London or through international travel insurance providers. You can obtain an instant quotation for your travel insurance, and you can buy online with a generous discount. RatesToGo.com - Last minute hotel reservation service. The fast and secure service offering great savings on your last minute hotel reservations - up to 20 days in advance. To book more than 20 days ahead click here . Quick Links View agents and information for specific areas of Spain: Choose an option Property for sale in Spain Costa Almeria Costa Blanca Costa Brava Costa Calida Costa de la Luz Costa del Azahar Costa del Sol Costa Tropical - Granada Canary Islands Golf Properties Mallorca New developments Rural properties UK Based Agents Private Property Sales Commercial Property Home Improvements Mortgages Main guide to buying Guide to renting Holiday rentals Private Property Rentals a Property for sale in... a Spain a Costa Almeria a Costa Blanca a Costa Brava a Costa Calida a Costa de la Luz a Costa del Azahar a Costa del Sol a Costa Tropical - Granada a Cordoba, Andalucia a Huelva, Andalucia a Jaen, Andalucia a Seville, Andalucia a Canary Islands a Mallorca a Tenerife a New Developments a UK Based Agents a Rural Properties a Golf Properties a Private Property Sales a Businesses for Sale a Home Improvements a Property to Let in Spain a Private property rentals Related Links a Buying Property - Guide a Buying a finca - Guide a Buy a business-Guide a Buy a bar in Spain-Guide a Renting Property - Guide a Mortgages a Mortgage Calculator a Money Matters a Foreign Currency Services a Legal Matters a Hotels in Spain - A-Z a A-Z of Places a Holidays in Spain a Moving to Spain a Sport Home Page Relevant features Teach Yourself Spanish Relocate to Spain Working in Spain Costa Jobs Driving in Spain Driving licences Tourist Offices The Culture Healthcare in Spain Legal Matters Banks in Spain Making a will Teach Yourself Spanish Schools in Spain Tenants rights Cost of living in Spain Work Experience The Lotteries of Spain Buying a car in Spain If you have a property you wish to sell privately, you can advertise it on idealspain.com for 150 euros until sold. Click here for details Need to transfer money to Spain? Save money and stop making the banks rich. click here for details NEED A MORTGAGE? Advertise with us Step by step guide Site Stats About us | Terms of use | Contact us | Site Map | Advertise with us | Latest updates Buying Property in Spain | Schools in Spain | Healthcare in Spain | Finance | Move to Spain | Work in Spain | Culture of Spain Airports of Spain | Hotels in Spain | Weather in Spain | Nautical Spain | Geography of Spain IdealSpain.com - Tel: (+34) 952 198 832 - Email: info@idealspain.com All content and images 2000-2005 idealspain.com Visit our other websites : www.perfectbulgaria.com - www.idealcroatia.com www.iberianimage.com - www.fiestaproperty.com - www.fiestapropertymallorca.com

Real Estate Listing

San Francisco Chronicle: Real Estate Thursday, December 29, 2005 Search By : County | City | Address Filter By : Chronicle Ads Open Homes County Select County ****Any County Alameda Contra Costa Marin Napa San Francisco San Mateo Santa Clara Solano Sonoma City Please select a county Min. Bedrooms Studio 1 Bedroom 2 Bedrooms 3 Bedrooms 4 Bedrooms 5+ Bedrooms Max. Price No Limit 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 450,000 500,000 550,000 600,000 650,000 700,000 750,000 800,000 850,000 900,000 950,000 1 Million 1.5 Million 2 Million 2.5 million 3 Million Advanced Search E-mail Alerts Saved Listings -- New Home Developments New Home Videos -- Out of Bay Area Open Homes Recent Home Sales Search By : County | City | Address Enter City or Neighborhood Advanced Search Search By : County | City | Address Enter Address You may enter a full or partial address. Advanced Search Click on the map for Bay Area home sales listings. How To Guide Information to help you select and buy goods and services. - Advertorial Find a contractor and get tips from great professionals with ImproveNet.com, America's Home Improvement Resource. Bay Area school scores and profiles at Great Schools.net . SF Gate's SF and East Bay neighborhood guides. Bay Area Maps Real Estate and Rental display ads from the Chronicle. See the Chronicle's New Homes Section. Save Searches, Listings, & Activate E-mail Alerts! View All Featured Properties Today's Rates Product Avg. Rate 30-yr Fixed 6.020 15-yr Fixed 5.394 30-yr Fixed Jumbo 6.146 5/1 ARM 5.525 Current Mortgage Rates Mortgage calculators Apply to online lenders Rates current as of 12/29/2005 powered by MortgageTrak Surreal Estate An overwrought home for the holidays Carol Lloyd Best of a bunch Real estate authors were prolific in 2005 Robert J. Bruss At the end of each year, it is my custom to select the 10 best real estate books out of the hundreds of published that year. This article takes 52 weeks to prepare because I read at least one real est... Clarification on home-sale tax exemption Robert Bruss Q: I am confused about your answer to a home seller who wants to add her mother to the title. You said the mother would be eligible for an Internal Revenue Code 121 principal residence sale tax exempt... Normal wear and tear covers reasonable use of unit Robert Griswold Answers are provided by Robert Griswold, a property manager certified by the Institute of Real Estate Management and author of "Property Management for Dummies"; and lawyers Steven R. Kellman, directo... Transbay planners see new landmark Dan Levy Transbay Terminal planners are viewing their controversial idea for a new San Francisco high-rise as nothing less than the signature building of our time -- much like the Transamerica Pyramid defined ... Holidays evoke true meaning of home Carol Lloyd "I just want to bake a Christmas ham," says my friend, a slight note of desperation rising in her voice. "Is that so much to ask?" She has just confided that because of her husband's 8-year-long, self... HOME SALES FOR 5 BUSINESS DAYS Alameda County Total sales as of Dec. 7 484 Median price $590,000 . Contra Costa County Total sales as of Dec. 7 489 Median price $576,500 . Marin County Total sales as of Nov. 22 81 Median price $808... Perry turns pretty profit on compound Actor buys condo after selling his Beverly Hills home Ruth Ryon Former "Friends" cast member Matthew Perry has racked up his second big deal of the year. The actor, 36, sold his Beverly Hills-area home for $6.1 million. He purchased it in 1999 for $3.2 million. Wh... Real reading -- best of a big bunch Robert J. Bruss "Reverse Mortgages for Dummies" By Sarah Glendon Lyons and John E. Lucas Wiley, $16.99, 249 pages This is the best of several excellent 2005 books about the pros and cons of tax-free reverse mortgage ... ARM indexes CHART: BC: . Last Previous Year Index week week ago 6-month CD 4.62 4.61 2.67 6-month T-bill 4.22 4.18 2.46 1-year TCMS(Y) 4.34 4.35 2.66 3-year TCMS(Y) 4.39 4.42 3.18 1-month LIBOR 4.38 4.37 2.41 6-m... Ignorance no excuse in avoiding foreclosure Kenneth Harney What would happen if you got sick or suffered a drastic loss of household income in 2006, and then fell seriously behind on your mortgage payments? Think about that, even for just a moment, because no... Solar power for the home a hot deal in 2006 Tax incentives can help cut energy bills Jennie L. Phipps If the thought of rising energy bills has you rushing out to buy insulation, hold off a week until after New Year's Day, when the recently enacted Energy Tax Incentives Act of 2005 kicks in. The act i... Real Estate: Neighborhood Homes Sold . Sunday, December 25, 2005 Back to... Help | Contact us | Privacy ™ ©2005 Hearst Communications Inc. --

HOME LOAN? The two

Veteran Home Loans from the VA Mortgage Center 800-405-6682 Contact Why a VA Loan? Pre-Qualify VA Loan SHOULD I GET A VETERAN HOME LOAN? The two main reasons for using your eligibility to obtain a VA home loan are because it can save you a great deal of money and it is much easier for you to qualify for one of these loans at a low rate. Pre-qualify now for a VA Loan A VA Home Loan can save you money by giving you an excellent rate, with no monthly mortgage insurance. And since it is easier to qualify for a VA military loan as compared to a conventional mortgage, individuals with poor credit are given a large advantage by using their eligibility for a VA Loan. BENEFITS OF VETERAN HOME LOANS There is zero down payment required when purchasing a home. If you have bad credit, you are likely to get a much lower rate with a VA loan compared to a conventional loan (and if you have been improving your credit history for the past year, you may be able to get the same low interest rates that are available to those with good credit. Even with a Loan-to-Value of 100%, there is no monthly Mortgage Insurance required for a VA home loan. The VA mortgage loan is guaranteed with no money down for any loan up to $359,650. VA mortgage loans are often assumable. VA has released a hybrid ARM product. Veterans now have a choice of a Fixed rate or an Adjustable rate VA mortgage. Individuals with poor credit are more likely to qualify for a loan and, most of the time, you will see significant savings as a result of a lower rate on your loan (the VA also offers extra benefits for disabled veterans). Find out how much you can save with a VA Loan. ARE THERE ANY FEES FOR A VA MORTGAGE LOAN? There is a Funding Fee required by the Department of Veteran Affairs that varies between 0-3.3% of the amount of the military loan depending on your current Veteran Status. The funding fee is added into the total loan amount, so the borrower is not required to pay this out of pocket. To determine the exact funding fee, see the funding fee chart . Benefits for disabled veterans dictate that if you are 10% or more disabled due to active military service, you will not be required to pay a funding fee. Those which are required to have a funding fee may lower their fee by putting money down on their VA home purchase. WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO GET A VA LOAN You will need a certificate of eligibility to qualify. Whether you are a first time user or you have used your eligibility in the past, you must have your certificate. A certificate can be mailed directly to you if you fill out this short form . If you have your Certificate of Eligibility, you can Pre-qualify for a VA home purchase VA LOAN SPECIALIST If you have questions or if you want to determine if a Veteran Home Loan is actually the best financial decision for you, you may get advice from a VA mortgage specialist online or call 800-405-6682 . Read more about the Veterans Benefit Act of 2004 . "This was our first home purchase, but Nathan and the other folks at VA Mortgage Center helped eliminate any concerns we had from day one. They answered all our questions, and qualified us for a home that fit perfectly within our budget. Thank you for helping us take a step towards achieving our financial goals!" Jesse Jacobs- E-2- Private First Class MCB Camp Lejeune- North Carolina Read More Testimonials about VA Mortgage Center VA Loan Information VA Loan FAQs VA Loan VA Loan Qualification Home Purchase VA Refinance Cash-Out Refinance Contact Us Privacy Policy The VA Mortgage Center is a private lender specializing in Veteran Home loans , we are NOT affiliated with any government agency. We originate loans in most states . But in order for us to best serve our customers, the VA Mortgage Center may share customer information with trusted affiliates. We aim to provide you with the best financial advice possible as well as help you determine how you can get the best rates on your loan.

Real estate agents usually

Real estate brokers and sales agents Skip Navigation Links Latest Numbers U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook www.bls.gov Search the Handbook BLS Home | OOH Home | Frequently Asked Questions | A-Z Index | Contact Us Printer-friendly version ( HTML ) -- PDF ) -- Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents Nature of the Work Working Conditions Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement Employment Job Outlook Earnings Related Occupations Sources of Additional Information Significant Points Real estate brokers and sales agents often work evenings and weekends and usually are on call to suit the needs of clients. A license is required in every State and the District of Columbia. Although gaining a job may be relatively easy, beginning workers may face competition fromwell-established, more experienced agents and brokers in obtaining listings and in closing an adequate number of sales. Employment is sensitive to swings in the economy, especially interest rates; during periodsof declining economic activity and increasing interest rates, the volume of sales and the resultingdemand for sales workers fall. Nature of the Work [ About this section ] Back to Top One of the most complex and significant financial events in peoples lives is the purchase or sale of a home or investment property. Because of this complexity and significance, people typically seek the help of real estate brokers and sales agents when buying or selling real estate. Real estate brokers and sales agents have a thorough knowledge of the real estate market in their communities. They know which neighborhoods will best fit clients needs and budgets. They are familiar with local zoning and tax laws and know where to obtain financing. Agents and brokers also act as intermediaries in price negotiations between buyers and sellers. Real estate agents usually are independent sales workers who provide their services to a licensed real estate broker on a contract basis. In return, the broker pays the agent a portion of the commission earned from the agents sale of the property. Brokers are independent businesspeople who sell real estate owned by others; they also may rent or manage properties for a fee. When selling real estate, brokers arrange for title searches and for meetings between buyers and sellers during which the details of the transactions are agreed upon and the new owners take possession of the property. A broker may help to arrange favorable financing from a lender for the prospective buyer; often, this makes the difference between success and failure in closing a sale. In some cases, brokers and agents assume primary responsibility for closing sales; in others, lawyers or lenders do. Brokers supervise agents who may have many of the same job duties. Brokers also supervise their own offices, advertise properties, and handle other business matters. Some combine other types of work, such as selling insurance or practicing law, with their real estate business. Besides making sales, agents and brokers must have properties to sell. Consequently, they spend a significant amount of time obtaining listings—agreements by owners to place properties for sale with the firm. When listing a property for sale, agents and brokers compare the listed property with similar properties that recently sold, in order to determine a competitive market price for the property. Once the property is sold, both the agent who sold it and the agent who obtained the listing receive a portion of the commission. Thus, agents who sell a property that they themselves have listed can increase their commission. Most real estate brokers and sales agents sell residential property. A small number—usually employed in large or specialized firms—sell commercial, industrial, agricultural, or other types of real estate. Every specialty requires knowledge of that particular type of property and clientele. Selling or leasing business property requires an understanding of leasing practices, business trends, and the location of the property. Agents who sell or lease industrial properties must know about the regions transportation, utilities, and labor supply. Whatever the type of property, the agent or broker must know how to meet the clients particular requirements. Before showing residential properties to potential buyers, agents meet with them to get a feeling for the type of home the buyers would like. In this prequalifying phase, the agent determines how much the buyers can afford to spend. In addition, the agent and the buyer usually sign a loyalty contract which states that the agent will be the only one to show houses to buyers. An agent or broker then generates lists of properties for sale, their location and description, and available sources of financing. In some cases, agents and brokers use computers to give buyers a virtual tour of properties in which they are interested. With a computer, buyers can view interior and exterior images or floor plans without leaving the real estate office. Agents may meet several times with prospective buyers to discuss and visit available properties. Agents identify and emphasize the most pertinent selling points. To a young family looking for a house, they may emphasize the convenient floor plan, the areas low crime rate, and the proximity to schools and shopping centers. To a potential investor, they may point out the tax advantages of owning a rental property and the ease of finding a renter. If bargaining over price becomes necessary, agents must follow their clients instructions carefully and may have to present counteroffers in order to get the best possible price. Once both parties have signed the contract, the real estate broker or agent must make sure that all special terms of the contract are met before the closing date. For example, the agent must make sure that the mandated and agreed-upon inspections, including that of the home and termite and radon inspections, take place. Also, if the seller agrees to any repairs, the broker or agent must see that they are made. Increasingly, brokers and agents are handling environmental problems as well, by making sure that the properties they sell meet environmental regulations. For example, they may be responsible for dealing with lead paint on the walls. While loan officers, attorneys, or other persons handle many details, the agent must ensure that they are carried out. Working Conditions [ About this section ] Back to Top Advances in telecommunications and the ability to retrieve data about properties over the Internet allow many real estate brokers and sales agents to work out of their homes instead of real estate offices. Even with this convenience, much of the time of these workers is spent away from their desks—showing properties to customers, analyzing properties for sale, meeting with prospective clients, or researching the state of the market. Agents and brokers often work more than a standard 40-hour week. They usually work evenings and weekends and are always on call to suit the needs of clients. Although the hours are long and frequently irregular, most agents and brokers have the freedom to determine their own schedule. Consequently, they can arrange their work so that they can have time off when they want it. Business usually is slower during the winter season. Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement [ About this section ] Back to Top In every State and the District of Columbia, real estate brokers and sales agents must be licensed. Prospective agents must be high school graduates, be at least 18 years old, and pass a written test. The examination—more comprehensive for brokers than for agents—includes questions on basic real estate transactions and laws affecting the sale of property. Most States require candidates for the general sales license to complete between 30 and 90 hours of classroom instruction. Those seeking a brokers license need between 60 and 90 hours of formal training and a specific amount of experience selling real estate, usually 1 to 3 years. Some States waive the experience requirements for the brokers license for applicants who have a bachelors degree in real estate. State licenses typically must be renewed every 1 or 2 years; usually, no examination needs to be taken. However, many States require continuing education for license renewals. Prospective agents and brokers should contact the real estate licensing commission of the State in which they wish to work in order to verify the exact licensing requirements. As real estate transactions have become more legally complex, many firms have turned to college graduates to fill positions. A large number of agents and brokers have some college training. College courses in real estate, finance, business administration, statistics, economics, law, and English are helpful. For those who intend to start their own company, business courses such as marketing and accounting are as significant as courses in real estate or finance. Personality traits are equally as important as ones academic background. Brokers look for applicants who possess a pleasant personality, are honest, and present a neat appearance. Maturity, good judgment, trustworthiness, and enthusiasm for the job are required in order to encourage prospective customers in this highly competitive field. Agents should be well organized, be detail oriented, and have a good memory for names, faces, and business particulars. Those interested in jobs as real estate agents often begin in their own communities. Their knowledge of local neighborhoods is a clear advantage. Under the direction of an experienced agent, beginners learn the practical aspects of the job, including the use of computers to locate or list available properties and identify sources of financing. Many firms offer formal training programs for both beginners and experienced agents. Larger firms usually offer more extensive programs than smaller firms. More than a thousand universities, colleges, and junior colleges offer courses in real estate. At some, a student can earn an associates or bachelors degree with a major in real estate; several offer advanced degrees. Many local real estate associations that are members of the National Association of Realtors sponsor courses covering the fundamentals and legal aspects of the field. Advanced courses in mortgage financing, property development and management, and other subjects also are available. Advancement opportunities for agents may take the form of higher rates of commission. As agents gain knowledge and expertise, they become more efficient in closing a greater number of transactions and increase their earnings. In many large firms, experienced agents can advance to sales manager or general manager. Persons who have received their brokers license may open their own offices. Others with experience and training in estimating property value may become real estate appraisers, and people familiar with operating and maintaining rental properties may become property managers. (See the Handbook statements on property, real estate, and community association managers ; and appraisers and assessors of real estate . ) Experienced agents and brokers with a thorough knowledge of business conditions and property values in their localities may enter mortgage financing or real estate investment counseling. Employment [ About this section ] Back to Top In 2004, real estate brokers and sales agents held about 460,000 jobs; real estate sales agents held approximately 24 percent of these jobs. Many worked part time, combining their real estate activities with other careers. About 6 out of 10 real estate agents and brokers were self-employed. Real estate is sold in all areas, but employment is concentrated in large urban areas and in rapidly growing communities. Most real estate firms are relatively small; indeed, some are one-person businesses. By contrast, some large real estate firms have several hundred agents operating out of numerous branch offices. Many brokers have franchise agreements with national or regional real estate organizations. Under this type of arrangement, the broker pays a fee in exchange for the privilege of using the more widely known name of the parent organization. Although franchised brokers often receive help in training sales staff and running their offices, they bear the ultimate responsibility for the success or failure of their firms. Real estate brokers and sales agents are older, on average, than most other workers. Historically, many homemakers and retired persons were attracted to real estate sales by the flexible and part-time work schedules characteristic of the field. These individuals could enter, leave, and later return to the occupation, depending on the strength of the real estate market, their family responsibilities, or other personal circumstances. Recently, however, the attractiveness of part-time real estate work has declined, as increasingly complex legal and technological requirements are raising startup costs associated with becoming an agent. Job Outlook [ About this section ] Back to Top Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations through the year 2014, because of the increasing housing needs of a growing population, as well as the perception that real estate is a good investment. Relatively low interest rates should continue to stimulate sales of real estate, resulting in the need for more agents and brokers. In addition, a large number of job openings will arise each year from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. However, job growth will be somewhat limited by the increasing use of technology, which is improving the productivity of agents and brokers. For example, prospective customers often can perform their own searches for properties that meet their criteria by accessing real estate information on the Internet. The increasing use of technology is likely to be more detrimental to part-time or temporary real estate agents than to full-time agents, because part-time agents generally are not able to compete with full-time agents who have invested in new technology. Changing legal requirements, such as disclosure laws, also may dissuade some who are not serious about practicing full time from continuing to work part time. This occupation is relatively easy to enter and is attractive because of its flexible working conditions; the high interest in, and familiarity with, local real estate markets that entrants often have; and the potential for high earnings. Therefore, although gaining a job as a real estate agent or broker may be relatively easy, beginning agents and brokers may face competition from their well-established, more experienced counterparts in obtaining listings and in closing an adequate number of sales. Well-trained, ambitious people who enjoy selling—particularly those with extensive social and business connections in their communities—should have the best chance for success. Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents often is sensitive to swings in the economy, especially interest rates. During periods of declining economic activity and increasing interest rates, the volume of sales and the resulting demand for sales workers falls. As a result, the earnings of agents and brokers decline, and many work fewer hours or leave the occupation altogether. Earnings [ About this section ] Back to Top The median annual earnings of salaried real estate sales agents, including commissions, were $35,670 in May 2004.The middle 50 percent earned between $23,500 and $58,110 a year.The lowest 10 percent earned less than $17,600, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $92,770.Median hourly earnings in the industries employing the largest number of real estate sales agents in May 2004 were as follows: Residential building construction $54,770 Offices of real estate agents and brokers 37,970 Activities related to real estate 32,460 Lessors of real estate 25,840 Median annual earnings of salaried real estate brokers, including commission, were $58,720in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $33,480 and $99,820 a year.Median annual earning of real estate brokers were $61,550 in offices of real estateagents and brokers and $44,920 in activities related to real estate. Commissions on sales are the main source of earnings of real estate agents and brokers.The rate of commission varies according to whatever the agent and broker agree on, the typeof property, and its value. The percentage paid on the sale of farm and commercialproperties or unimproved land is typically higher than the percentage paid for selling a home. Commissions may be divided among several agents and brokers. When the property issold, the broker or agent who obtained the listing usually shares the commission with thebroker or agent who made the sale and with the firm that employs each of them. Although anagents share varies greatly from one firm to another, often it is about half of the totalamount received by the firm. Agents who both list and sell a property maximize their commission. Income usually increases as an agent gains experience, but individual motivation,economic conditions, and the type and location of the property also affect earnings.Sales workers who are active in community organizations and in local real estate associationscan broaden their contacts and increase their earnings. A beginners earnings often areirregular, because a few weeks or even months may go by without a sale. Although some brokersallow an agent to draw against future earnings from a special account, the practice is notcommon with new employees. The beginner, therefore, should have enough money to live forabout 6 months or until commissions increase. Related Occupations [ About this section ] Back to Top Selling expensive items such as homes requires maturity, tact, and a sense of responsibility.Other sales workers who find these character traits important in their workinclude insurance sales agents ; retail salespersons ; sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing ; and securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents .Although not involving sales, the work of property, real estate, and community association managers ,as well as appraisers and assessors of real estate, requires an understanding of real estate. Sources of Additional Information [ About this section ] Back to Top Disclaimer: Links to non-BLS Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. Information on licensing requirements for real estate brokers and sales agents is available from most local real estate organizations or from the State real estate commission or board. More information about opportunities in real estate is available on the Internet site of the following organization: National Association of Realtors. Internet: http://www.realtor.org OOH ONET Codes [ About this section ] Back to Top 41-9021.00, 41-9022.00 Suggested citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook , 2006-07 Edition , Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents , on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ ocos120.htm (visited December 29, 2005 ). 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real estate brokers. Real

Real Estate Agent Printer-friendly version ( HTML ) Real Estate Agent What is this job like? | How do you get ready? | How much does this job pay? | How many jobs are there? | What about the future? | Are there other jobs like this? | Where can you find more information? What is this job like? Back to Top Real estate agents help people buy and sell houses. They must be able to say approximately how much money a house is worth. They need to know what the neighborhoods in their towns are like. They must know the laws that have to do with buying or selling a house. They also can tell home buyers where to get a loan if they need more money to buy a house. In return for selling a house, real estate agents get to keep a small part of the money that the buyer paid for it. Real estate agents work for real estate brokers. Real estate brokers manage real estate offices. People who want to buy a house often ask a real estate agent to help them. They meet with the agent to tell him or her what kind of house they want. They must also discuss how much money they can afford to spend. The agent then takes them to see houses for sale. Buying a house is a very important decision because houses cost a lot of money. This means that buyers often want to look at many houses before they decide to buy one. Real estate agents also sell houses for people. They help the seller set the price for the house. To do this, they must know what the house is like. They must also figure out what people would be willing to pay for the house so that it will sell quickly. They make sure that people see ads for the house so that they can think about buying it. Once a person agrees to buy a house, real estate agents still have work to do. They must fill out special forms that let everyone know that the house has a new owner. Both the buyer and the seller of the house must sign these forms for the sale of the house to be legal. Often, the agents must help the buyer to get a loan from the bank to pay for the house. Real estate agents generally work in offices. Since much information about properties is available over the Internet, some agents can work out of their own homes. In either case, however, much of their time is spent outside the office showing houses to buyers. Sometimes they must leave the office to meet with people who have houses to sell. Good real estate agents also spend time away from the office finding out more about the houses in their town that might one day be up for sale. Agents often work more than 40 hours a week. They often must work in the evening or on weekends. This is because most buyers and sellers are free only at those times. How do you get ready? Back to Top Real estate agents must have a license from the State in which they work. To get a license, a person must have graduated from high school. The person must be at least 18 years old and pass a written test. In some States, a person who wants to be a real estate agent must go to a special school for a few months. Sometimes it helps to take some college courses about real estate. This is because the process of selling a house can be hard to understand. Good real estate agents must get along well with buyers and sellers. It helps if real estate agents are pleasant and dress neatly. They should be well organized and be able to remember people's names. They should deal honestly with people and have good manners. They must also be very eager to sell houses, which is sometimes a lot of hard work. How much does this job pay? Back to Top Most real estate agents do not get a regular paycheck. Instead, they get part of the money that the home buyer pays to the home seller when a house is sold. This means that agents who sell more houses earn more money. It also means that agents who sell more expensive houses earn more. The middle half of all real estate agents earned between $21,010 and $52,860 a year in 2002. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $15,480. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $83,780 a year. The middle half of all real estate brokers earned between $29,240 and $90,170 a year in 2002. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $17,290. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $145,600 a year. How many jobs are there? Back to Top Real estate agents and brokers held about 407,000 jobs in 2002. Many work part time, and have other jobs as well. Most real estate agents work in large cities. Many also work in smaller cities that are growing quickly. This is because there are more houses being bought and sold in such places. What about the future? Back to Top The number of jobs for real estate agents is expected to grow more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2012. This is partly because more information about real estate is available on the Internet. This allows agents to conduct more business in less time, so fewer agents are needed. It should be rather easy to find a job as a real estate agent. This is because many agents find that they cannot sell enough houses to be successful, so they quit their jobs. Only people who enjoy selling, and are good at it, should try to become real estate agents. Are there other jobs like this? Back to Top Insurance sales agents Retail salespersons (car salespersons, etc.) Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents Travel agents Where can you find more information? Back to Top More BLS information about real estate brokers and sales agents can be found in the Occupational Outlook Handbook . The Handbook also shows where to find out even more about this job. Last Modified Date: October 21, 2004