Buy Property

VEF - french property estate agents: properties for sale in france VEF - French Property Consultants. VEF are estate agents, based in both the UK and France, who offer property for sale in France . As a French property consultant who specialises in the sale of French properties, VEF can offer all different kinds of property in various regions of France including Charente, Dordogne, Brittany, Limousin, Languedoc, Limousin Heights, Loire, Pyrenées Atlantiques, Gers in Gascony, Aquitaine, Burgundy, Nice, Toulouse, Provence and Deux-Sèvres, Midi-Pyrenées. -- The French Property Estate Agents Offering Properties for Sale in France - VEF cheap french property property for sale in france UK-based French property estate agents , VEF , specialise in the sale of property in France . French regions we, as estate agents , have property for sale in France include Aquitaine, Brittany, Charente, Dordogne, Gers in Gascony, Burgundy, Languedoc, Pyrenées Atlantiques, Limousin, Limousin Heights, Loire, Nice, Midi-Pyrenées, Provence, Toulouse and Deux-Sevres. We are a team of professional UK estate agents who can offer the knowledge of 14 years of estate agent / property consultant experience to purchasers of French property . Based in both the UK and France , we have our main office in the UK capital of London and a branch office in Dublin, Ireland and have many regional estate agent offices around France; Deux-Sevres, Gers in Gascony, Limousin, Pyrenées Atlantiques, Burgundy, Midi-Pyrenées, Toulouse, Charente, Brittany, Aquitaine, Dordogne, Limousin Heights, Loire, Languedoc, Provence and Nice. Only property that is truly for sale and that has been personally viewed by one of our French-based staff is listed for sale on our website. The VEF website is updated daily so that there are never any sold properties on the site. The French properties which are for sale, have been inspected by a professional consultant in France and has been selected as being amongst the best the region has to offer. The French regions that our French estate agent / consultant services currently have properties for sale in are Aquitaine, Burgundy, Midi-Pyrenées, Pyrenées Atlantiques, Provence, Toulouse, Deux-Sevres, Languedoc, Gers in Gascony, Loire, Nice, Dordogne, Charente, Limousin Heights, Limousin and Brittany. VEF attend more than 30 exhibitions each year throughout the UK and Europe. Our UK estate agents and property consultants from the UK and France advise people on what type of home to buy and where to buy it (VEF currently cover many regions including Toulouse , Aquitaine , Charente , Pyrenées Atlantiques , Limousin , Loire , Nice , Provence , Languedoc , Midi-Pyrenées , Burgundy , Deux-Sevres , Brittany , Dordogne , Gers in Gascony and Limousin Heights ). VEF consultants work closely with the media to bring the latest news of France and its properties to the public. Wherever you first meet VEF, you will be met by a fully professional service. So if you're wishing to find properties for sale in France that are some of the best the country has to offer then come to VEF. VEF are UK estate agents / property consultants who can offer properties in many regions including Provence, Nice, Dordogne, Pyrenées Atlantiques, Languedoc, Gers in Gascony, Burgundy, Aquitaine, Limousin, Loire, Brittany, Toulouse, Limousin Heights, Midi-Pyrenées, Charente and Deux-Sevres. VEF can help you purchase property for sale in France New build houses across France, Italy, Span and Croatia for sale with VEF Find French mortgages with VEF VEF help people buying property for sale in france property for sale in france buying in france feeling for france property for sale in france search for international new build property for sale in france, italy and spain investing in overseas property legal services: buying french property property news from france french property exhibitions and seminars my VEF: premier french property club contact vef: french estate agents french property buying property in france feeling for france - information about french regions feeling for france - information about local offices french property for sale search for international new build development property for sale in france, italy and spain property investments legal services for buying property in france property news from france french property exhibitions and seminars my vef - register with vef online for the premier french property club contact us buying property in france french property for sale france real estate france property for sale property in france french property

Selling Home

Selling A Home - Selling a Home Made Simple - RBC Royal Bank RBC.com | Search | Site Map | Contact Us | Legal Terms | Français Select Region Canada US International Other RBC Sites: Banking Investments Insurance SIGN IN Online Services Online Banking Online Investing Visa Inquiry RBC ROYAL BANK SELLING A HOME Preparing Your Home Real Estate Agents Selling on Your Own Negotiating the Sale The Closing Financing Planning Your Move Downsizing Your Home MORTGAGE RATES SEARCH Selling a Home Made Simple Preparing Your Home So you've decided to sell your home. Let's take a look at all the things you can do to increase your chances of success. Price it to sell Tips to higher prices Real Estate Agents As the vendor, you may hire a real estate professional to help you sell your home. Understand what services you can expect from your real estate agent. Selling on Your Own You need to carefully examine your capabilities and skills as a potential real estate agent before jumping in. Negotiating the Sale If you accept an offer, what can go wrong? And what measures should you take to protect yourself legally? For extra convenience, fill in a RBC Royal Bank Pre-Approved Mortgage Application online. Talk to a Mortgage Specialist How Much can You Afford? Mortgage Calculator Choosing the Right Mortgage Term Mortgages Insurance Mutual Funds GICs Buying a Home Renovating a Home back to top rbcroyalbank.com is operated by Royal Bank of Canada. Privacy | Legal Terms | Security ©Royal Bank of Canada 1995 - 2005 Last modified: 03/03/2005 13:33:33

DENVER REAL ESTATE |

Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver Colorado real estatelistings, home buying, selling and relocation information -NUMBER1EXPERT(tm) Highlands Ranch real estate, Littleton real estate, and Denver realestate and homes for sale in Douglas County Colorado - Wayne Herman,REALTOR® - NUMBER1EXPERT™ Pop-Up Window" WIDTH="89" HEIGHT="14" All agents are NOT alike! Find out why! Call me direct at 303-850-1866, or on my cell phone at 720-271-0790. Buyers Want Your Home for as Little as Possible. Are you thinking of selling your home? You should know exactly what it's worth before making such an important decision. Find Out More > View All Offers > "He puts his energy into it 100%" "... a hands-on guy who will make it work for his clients" Mrs. Lee T. Johnson,Aurora Read Quote > View All Quotes > Compare three mortgages at one time. Download TripleCalc now. It's free. Find Out More > Download Now > Wayne Herman is one of The Top Selling Real Estate Experts™ Find Out More > Welcome! This is your ONE-STOP site for information about Denver area Real Estate and Relocation! The Internet and Real Estate have finally come together to help YOU. You may have already been to dozens of Real Estate websites. THIS IS THE LAST ONE YOU'LL EVER NEED TO VISIT! If you're looking for homes for sale in Highlands Ranch or homes for sale in Littleton and other communities in the southern counties of Metro Denver, you're in the right place. Here's why! Information on EVERY HOME LISTED IN THE DENVER METROPOLITAN AREA is now available right here... on WayneHerman.com. Just click on the "Find Homes" button above and go to "Search All Local Listings." The Internet has changed the way Real Estate professionals do business. What used to be "secret" information prior to beginning a transaction is now available to YOU online... if you know where to find it. In the past, information about listings, mortgages, home inspections, sales trends and relocation packages was held tightly by Realtors. No more! Now YOU know where to find all this information and much more. Right here at WayneHerman.com. Fortunately, for you, the Internet will never replace the need for professionals during what has become a more complex Real Estate transaction. A few clicks will not replace knowledge when it comes to the transaction itself. So, what does all this mean to you? It means that a lot of information is available to you before you ever have to call a Real Estate Broker. When you're ready, I'll be here to answer your questions and guide you through your sale or purchase, or both... and far beyond, too. My business philosophy is "relationship" oriented. That means that when I gain your trust as a client, I want your business forever. I describe my job as "helping people make a major decision they must make - when they're ready to make it." Please, sit back and relax! Enjoy WayneHerman.com in the privacy of your home or office. When you have questions, I'm just an email or phone call away. Wayne Herman "A model of how the Internet can facilitate the process of deciding where to send your children to school" - America's Best School Profiles by The Heritage Foundation Colorado Public, Private and Charter Schools : Compare them using these top-rated, comprehensive reports. Schools in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver Financing Your Home When Interest Rates Rise Many people fall out of the home buying market when interest rates start to go up. This is often a mistake. Many of the best mortgages deals become available when lenders are competing for new business and sellers are competing within a smaller buyer pool. You just have to know how to keep the costs down in order to counter the higher interest rates. One of the best tricks is the buy-down. In a buy-down, a fee is paid at the closing to get a lower interest rate. In a soft market, an anxious seller may be lured into to paying all or part of the buy-down. Another approach is to get the seller to pay some of closing costs, thus lowering the amount of cash a buyer needs to close. Frequently the seller's costs can be used as a write-off by the buyer. Always consult with your tax advisor if you are considering such an arrangement. If the market is softening due to rising or higher rates, the price itself becomes an area where a buyer may be able to save a lot of money on a house through skillful negotiating. Lower prices mean lower loan amounts, so don't be discouraged by higher rates--use them to your advantage. See All Tips In The "Financing Your Home" Category > See Complete Library Of Hundreds Of Tips In 30+ Categories > Q What has been described as the world's most beautiful building? A The white marble Taj Mahal in India was built by the Mogul emperor Shah Jahan (1631-53) to enshrine his favorite wife. See More Real Estate Trivia > Se hablaEspañol FEATURED PROPERTY Lone Tree Executive home! Beautiful Executive Home with Grand Entry in Lone Tree! Location: 7866 Witney Place Price: $739,900 VIEW THIS PROPERTY VIEW ALL PROPERTIES See the Nation's Top Rated: School Reports - Public, Private & Charter > Get My Latest Listings Before Anyone Else! As soon as I list another home for sale, I'll email you. You'll know first. Name: Email: Find Out More > America's Mortgage Working with a Certified Mortgage Lender means you receive the expertise and service of a dedicated professional. Find Out More > View All Affiliates > Get the Latest Real Estate News, Hot Off the Presses! If you are buying or selling a home, you need my eNewsletter. Name: Email: Why Sign Up? > Go To eNewsletter > See Today's News > Wayne Herman RE/MAX Alliance 10375 Park Meadows Drive, Suite 100 Lone Tree, CO 80124 Direct: 303-850-1866 Cell: 720-271-0790 Fax: 303-683-2696 WayneHerman@NUMBER1EXPERT.com Wayne is a Denver native whose family has been involved in Real Estate and Mortgage lending for over 30 years. Wayne first practiced his profession in California where he handled family investments. He then returned home to raise his family and serve the communities he knows best... Denver, Littleton and Highlands Ranch. www.WayneHerman.com is brought to you byWayne Herman NUMBER1EXPERT ™ forHighlands Ranch CO real estate homes, Littleton CO real estate homes, and Denver CO real estate homes in Douglas County Colorado Read My Privacy Guarantee , Terms of Service ,and Free & Without Obligation Pledge Colorado Real Estate Agents - Homes - NUMBER1EXPERT™ Listings Some real estate agents outsell others 10 to 1. NUMBER1EXPERTS average a staggering 73 properties sold per year. How good is YOUR real estate agent? © Best Image Marketing and/or its clients. All rights reserved. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. JUMP TO: WELCOME DENVER REAL ESTATE | FIND DENVER HOMES | FOR DENVER BUYERS | FORDENVER SELLERS | LOCAL DENVER AREA INFO | DENVER REAL ESTATE RESOURCES | ABOUTWAYNE HERMAN DOUGLAS COUNTY REAL ESTATE AGENT WELCOME: DEVER HOMES AND REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Welcome: Home page for Denver, Highlands Ranch and Littleton reel estate. ABOUT WAYNEHERMAN: DENVER REAL ESTATE AGENT Who Am I?: Who is Wayne Herman of Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, Colorado? Testimonials: What Wayne Herman's clients are saying about this top Realtors real estate marketing Quick Response Guarantee: Wayne Herman guarantees a quick response to your email request for more Colorado home buying & property selling information Privacy Guarantee: Wayne Herman guarantees this Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver real estate web site will respect your privacy No Obligation Guarantee: Wayne Herman's real estate help by email is free & without obligation for Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver home owners in Colorado For Realtors: Let Wayne Herman help you with your professional real estate broker and agent needs in the Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver area About NUMBER1EXPERTS: NUMBER1EXPERTS are top real estate professionals, find out more Contact Information: How to contact Wayne Herman, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver real estate agent FIND HIGHLANDS RANCH, LITTLETON, ANDDENVER HOMES: Feature Denver Homes: Homes, properties, & other real estate in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver and Colorado with virtual tours, photos, and more Search All Local Denver Listings: Homes, properties, & other real estate in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver and Colorado with virtual tours, photos, and more National Listings Databases: Homes for sale in national American USA web site listings databases of properties Denver New Construction: New homes for sale, new construction and newly built properties and real estate subdivisions Unique & Luxury Homes: Home buyers, find luxury homes, real estate, beach front properties, mansions, & acreage/land for sale on these top national & international listings web sites International Properties: Find international homes for sale on these international/global real estate web sites from Canada, Europe, France, Germany, UK, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, Asia, Africa, and beyond Search ALL the Experts' Homes: Search the best local homes for sale from all the real estate experts, agents, Realtors, and brokers HIGHLANDS RANCH, LITTLETON, ANDDENVER INFO: About Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver: Moving to Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, Colorado? Get info here... Relocating?: Free real estate information & relocation package if you're relocating to Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, CO School Information: Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver schools and the education system in Colorado: kindergarten, elementary, high schools, colleges & universities Local Maps & Links: Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver maps & local/Colorado web site links for news & media, TV stations, radio stations, daily Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver newspapers, transportation, airports & bus terminals, Colorado & local government, and more Local Weather: Weather in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, Colorado: spring, summer, winter, and fall climate changes Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver Photo Gallery: Tour Colorado in pictures DENVER REAL ESTATERESOURCES: Special Offers: Special offers for Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver homeowners from Wayne Herman, top Realtor Affiliates: Wayne Herman's real estate web site affiliates eNewsletter: Wayne Herman's Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver newsletter email will send you the latest real estate information Today's Denver Real Estate News: Daily real estate news for this neighborhood, Colorado, and United States Denver Market Conditions Report: Market conditions report for this area, Colorado, and United States Monthly Payments & Schedule: Monthly loan payments java mortgage calculator How Much Can You Afford?: Calculate how much home you can afford with this financial calculator Determine Tax Savings: Calculate how much your monthly Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver Colorado mortgage payments save you on your taxes because of loan interest Should You Rent or Buy a Denver home?: Is it better to rent a home in Colorado or buy your own Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver house, ranch, luxury property, condominium, acreage, or other real estate? Denver Adjustable Rate Mortgages: Adjustable rate Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver mortgages information and interest rate java calculator What Is Your APR?: Determine the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for your mortgage. Fixed or Adjustable Rate Mortgage?: Use this calculator to compare a fixed rate mortgage to two types of ARMs, a Fully Amortizing ARM and an Interest Only ARM. Are Balloon Mortgages For You?: Balloon mortgage calculator. A balloon mortgage can be an excellent option for many home buyers. 15 vs. 30 Yr Mortgages: With a 15 year mortgage you will pay significantly less interest, but only if you can afford the higher monthly payment. Use this calculator to compare these two mortgage terms. How Much Should Your Income Be?: What income is required to qualify for a mortgage? Use this calculator to find out. What's Your Maximum Mortgage?: This calculator will help you determine your maximum monthly housing payment and the resulting mortgage amount. Will Buying Points Save You Money?: This calculator helps you determine if you should pay for points, or use the money to increase your down payment. Experts: Real estate, homes for sale, and other properties: links in Colorado, United States and Canada TripleCalc: FREE Software Download: TripleCalc lets you compare three loans at one time for your property or other Colorado real estate Top National Real Estate Web Sites: Real Estate Web Sites that include some unique sources of realty information, listings, and more Direct Links: Direct real estate links to web sites mentioned in this Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, Colorado site Ask Anything: Ask Wayne Herman anything real estate NUMBER1EXPERTS: List of all the NUMBER1EXPERT real estate agents and realty professionals and brokers in the USA and Canada with links to their personal web sites with homes for sale Real Estate Tips: Wayne Herman's realty library of real estate tips and advice on everything from preparing your home for sale to negotiating with home buyers to escrow, closing costs, property inspections, and mortgage brokers Real Estate Trivia: Wayne Herman's collection of real estate trivia questions and answers that include real estate topics such as the most expensive home, largest swimming pool, and more Real Estate Dictionary: Complete real estate dictionary and glossary of realty words you'll use when you list and sell your Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver property in Colorado, including legal terms definitions, and more FOR DENVER HOMEBUYERS: Why Buyers Choose Me: Why homebuyers in the Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver area choose Wayne Herman as their Realtor Latest Denver Listings: Get Wayne Herman's latest Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver listings of homes for sale first! Find Your Perfect Denver Home: Wayne Herman will search for your ideal home and email you the newest Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver MLS listings of properties First Time Denver Homebuyers: Are you a first time homebuyer in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, CO? As a top Realtor, Wayne Herman can guide your home buying search Denver Mortgage Prequalification: Pre-qualify for a mortgage or loan for your Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver house or other real estate or property FOR DENVER HOMESELLERS: Why Sellers Choose Wayne Herman: Why home sellers in Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver choose Wayne Herman Free Presentation: Free in-home listings presentation on marketing your Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, Colorado property Denver Property Valuation: How much is your Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver home worth? What Did That Denver Home Sell For?: What did that Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver, Colorado property or other real estate sell for? Denver real estate FSBO: Selling your Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Denver real estate on your own? Return to Top >

Property Listings Property listings

Real Estate Property Listings Information at Business.com Advertiser Center · Help Web News People Jobs Search the Business Internet ® Real Estate Property Listings Property listings and databases of real estate for sale and lease. Home > Real Estate & Construction > Property Listings Sub-Categories Agricultural Commercial Foreclosure Residential -- -- Featured Listings Leading Residences of the World: Property Listings Luxury Destination Club offering its members access to million-dollar homes world-wide for the price of a down payment. Beach, Ski, Spa and Urban. www.lrwclub.com Furnished Quarters: Furnished Property Listings Offers New York City furnished apartment rentals, beginning from three nights to three years. Units include high-rises, studios, and brownstones. www.furnishedquarters.com Foreclosures.com: Foreclosure Property Listings Provides buyers of foreclosures with premium training on foreclosures, current listings of foreclosures, and reference information. www.foreclosures.com Sponsored Links View Real Estate Listings Register to Search MLS for Free. Compare Homes and Find an Agent. Multiple-Listing-Search.net Houses Search Phoenix homes for sale. 20% cash back. See 1.4M photos-Easy MLS www.ZipRealty.com Real estate listings Free real estate listings search. View properties in your area. www.house-real-estate.com More Featured Listings ForSaleByOwner.com: Real Estate Property Listings The official for-sale-by-owner site, don't be fooled by imitators. Put your home in front of millions of potential buyers and save thousands! www.forsalebyowner.com Corporate Suites: Property Listings Full service business centers in midtown NYC with fully furnished office suites, equipped conference rooms, virtual office, and reception services. www.corporatesuitesllc.com RealtyTrac: Foreclosed Property Search Provides foreclosure search engine for the U.S. with daily data updates, tax roll information, and photographs. Free 7-day trial. www.realtytrac.com Sponsored Links Homes Listings HouseValues' free service helps you determine the value of your home. www.housevalues.com Real Estate Specialists Tucson, Marana, Vail, Green Valley Oro Valley, Pima, Pinal & More! www.prudentialaegisrealty.com MLS Listings Online Search MLS Listings Online. Research schools and neighborhoods www.MLSonline.com Real Estate by Owner View 50,000 Homes For Sale By Owner Save thousands in commissions! www.Owners.com Real Estate Specialists MLS Search & Online Tours For Chino Valley, Prescott & Prescott Valley! www.theredmans.com Real Estate Listings View homes for sale, mls listings , real estate agents & foreclosures www.real-estate.com Popular Searches construction and real estate land listings leasing property listing properties multiple listing service multiple listing services open listing properties for lease properties for rent « more more popular searches [x] properties for sale property for sale property listing companies property listing services Property Listings property lists property search real estate Real Estate and Construction real estate companies real estate industry real estate listing real estate properties real estate property listing real estate property listings real estate sale real estate services realestate realestate companies realestate services renting properties Listings Corporate Suites: Property Listings Full service business centers in midtown NYC with fully furnished office suites, equipped conference rooms, virtual office, and reception services. www.corporatesuitesllc.com Foreclosures.com: Foreclosure Property Listings Provides buyers of foreclosures with premium training on foreclosures, current listings of foreclosures, and reference information. www.foreclosures.com ForSaleByOwner.com: Real Estate Property Listings The official for-sale-by-owner site, don't be fooled by imitators. Put your home in front of millions of potential buyers and save thousands! www.forsalebyowner.com Furnished Quarters: Furnished Property Listings Offers New York City furnished apartment rentals, beginning from three nights to three years. Units include high-rises, studios, and brownstones. www.furnishedquarters.com Home Popular Directory of home-related sites clasified by popularity. www.homepopular.com Homes & Houses.com A listing service for both residential and commercial real estate nationwide. www.homes-n-houses.com Homes-for-Sale-Center Real estate website provides local real estate listings from various multiple listing services, foreclosures, and homes for sale by owner. Homes for Sale | Free Home Values | Mortgages | Site Map www.homes-for-sale-center.com Leading Residences of the World: Property Listings Luxury Destination Club offering its members access to million-dollar homes world-wide for the price of a down payment. Beach, Ski, Spa and Urban. www.lrwclub.com New Homes and Condo Guide (Canada) Provides listings rental apartments, rental houses, condos, and basement apartments in Toronto and throughout Ontario. www.newhomesandcondos.com Real Estate Group: Worldwide Property Listings Provides sale and rental property lists from multiple real estate agencies. Free property ads for worldwide real estate agencies and property developers. www.relmeds.net RealtyTrac: Foreclosed Property Search Provides foreclosure search engine for the U.S. with daily data updates, tax roll information, and photographs. Free 7-day trial. www.realtytrac.com Renters News (Canada) Provides apartment, house, and condo listings. View photos and floorplans for thousands of listings in Toronto and throughout Canada. www.rentersnews.ca Rooney Real Estate, Inc. Boston realtor/broker handles commercial and residential real estate sales. Condos | Land | Commercial | Homes www.rooney-re.com VirtualHomes.com Network of real estate communities that provides panoramic virtual tours of towns, neighborhoods, properties and merchants. www.virtualhomes.com Sponsored Links View Real Estate Listings Register to Search MLS for Free. Compare Homes and Find an Agent. Multiple-Listing-Search.net Houses Search Phoenix homes for sale. 20% cash back. See 1.4M photos-Easy MLS www.ZipRealty.com Real estate listings Free real estate listings search. View properties in your area. www.house-real-estate.com Search the Business Internet ® Advertiser Center | Account Login | About Us | Careers at Business.com | Featured Listings Privacy | Terms Of Use | 2000-2005 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Real Estate Brokers and

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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