Frequently Asked
Questions
Video Tutorials
How are you different from other real estate agent portals?
RealChoice™ Selling is here to match you with top agents. Unlike directory-based real estate websites, RealChoice™ Selling learns about your needs and presents you with 3 to 5 personalized proposals from top local agents.
Selling or buying a home can be stressful, so your Realtor.com Coordinator will guide you through the entire process. We also feature in-depth profiles on each of our network agents, including their personal bio, marketing materials, services, featured transactions, and online reviews.
Selling or buying a home can be stressful, so your Realtor.com Coordinator will guide you through the entire process. We also feature in-depth profiles on each of our network agents, including their personal bio, marketing materials, services, featured transactions, and online reviews.
I plan to sell in 3 months. Should I use RealChoice™ Selling now?
It’s never too early to begin using RealChoice™ Selling! Agents provide valuable services prior to your home being listed, such as recommending high-yield home improvements, assistance in vacating properties, and connecting you with trusted service providers. Our partner agents are on top of local trends and will help you pick out the best time to list and price your home to attract the best offers. A well-connected agent may even have a buyer for your home before it goes on the market!
What is the average selling price for homes in my area?
Selling prices vary depending on location, the condition of your home, and many other factors. Meeting with a RealChoice™ Selling network agent will provide you with the most accurate idea of your home’s value.
When should I decide who to interview?
We recommend reaching out to the agents you would like to interview within 24 hours of receiving your personalized proposals. If you need more time, talk to your Realtor.com Coordinator and we can help you evaluate each proposal and choose the one that best suits your needs. If you want to be matched with an agent on the same day you submit a request, we will expedite our process to meet your timeline.
What questions should I ask during agent interviews?
The interview is your opportunity to find out if the listing agent is a good fit for you. We encourage you to review our guide to Top Questions to Ask a Listing Agent to get a good sense of questions to ask.
What is a proposal and what does it include?
A proposal is a personalized, detailed quote, specifically prepared for you by our agents in order to earn your business. They allow you to compare each agent to decide who offers you the best value.
Proposals for buyers and sellers are similar, but there are a few differences.
Seller proposals outline commission savings and services included (CMA, photography, virtual tours, staging, open houses, etc.), while buyer proposals include the buyer rebate where applicable. Both include agent profiles that outline reviews, stats, and more.
Your Realtor.com Coordinator can assist you in carefully reviewing and evaluating each proposal, should you have any questions or concerns.
Proposals for buyers and sellers are similar, but there are a few differences.
Seller proposals outline commission savings and services included (CMA, photography, virtual tours, staging, open houses, etc.), while buyer proposals include the buyer rebate where applicable. Both include agent profiles that outline reviews, stats, and more.
Your Realtor.com Coordinator can assist you in carefully reviewing and evaluating each proposal, should you have any questions or concerns.
How do I sign up if I am a home seller?
Submit an online request, sharing basic details with us - it takes less than 2 minutes.
A Realtor.com Coordinator will call you to briefly discuss your specific needs and preferences.
We invite top, local agents that fit your criteria to compete.
You'll receive 3-5 personalized proposals within 24 hours.
Compare and review the proposals online and chose which agents(s) to interview.
Finally, choose to hire and get ready to sell your home.
We do all the work for you so it's really that simple! If you are not 100% satisfied, there is no obligation to hire one of our agent matches, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain!
Get started now: RealChoice™ Selling
A Realtor.com Coordinator will call you to briefly discuss your specific needs and preferences.
We invite top, local agents that fit your criteria to compete.
You'll receive 3-5 personalized proposals within 24 hours.
Compare and review the proposals online and chose which agents(s) to interview.
Finally, choose to hire and get ready to sell your home.
We do all the work for you so it's really that simple! If you are not 100% satisfied, there is no obligation to hire one of our agent matches, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain!
Get started now: RealChoice™ Selling
What steps should I take to prepare my home for selling?
Before listing your home, you should make sure to spruce it up by reducing clutter, cleaning, cleaning,
applying any fresh paint, and other small updates to present it in the best possible condition.
Qualified agents will have home staging tips and tricks that they will help you with. Consult with one today at RealChoice™ Selling by entering your property address.
Here are some home staging tips we've compiled to get you started.
Qualified agents will have home staging tips and tricks that they will help you with. Consult with one today at RealChoice™ Selling by entering your property address.
Here are some home staging tips we've compiled to get you started.
When is the best time to sell my home?
The best time to sell a home will vary depending on your area and the current market conditions.
The most popular time to sell is in the Spring. However, Fall and Winter home sales typically have more
serious buyers and less competition.
The best way to see if is the correct time to sell your home is to speak with a qualified agent in your local area. RealChoice™ Selling can help you find one! There is no obligation and you'll get to select from top agents in your area. Just enter your property address at RealChoice™ Selling
The best way to see if is the correct time to sell your home is to speak with a qualified agent in your local area. RealChoice™ Selling can help you find one! There is no obligation and you'll get to select from top agents in your area. Just enter your property address at RealChoice™ Selling
How long will it take to sell my home?
This will vary wildly based on market conditions, homeprice, condition of your home and the area you are selling in.
Homes can be on the market for over 100 days or sell in 48 hours. The best way to sell your home quickly for top dollar is to work with a knowledgeable
and experienced Realtor who can help you navigate the current market.
How do I sign up if I am a home buyer?
Signing up is easy:
Learn more here.
If you have any questions, we'll be more than happy to help by phone at 800-419-0261 or by email
On top of hiring a great agent, you'll receive a buyer commission refund(*refunds not legal in Alaska, Oregon, Iowa , Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and/or Tennessee). A buyer commission refund is a part of the agent's commission given back to you. This will help you save money for a down payment, new furniture, or anything you'd like.
Commission refunds are not available in these states: Oregon, Kansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Louisiana, Missouri, Alabama, Tennessee
- Select > "Buy" Tab
- Enter your city or ZIP code > Select "compare agents”
- Select > "What is your price range?"
- Select > "What kind of property you are looking for?"
- Options: Single Family, Condominium/Townhouse or Investment Property
- Select > "What stage are in the buying process?"
- Options: Just starting or ready to bid.
- Select > "What’s your credit score?"
- Options: Select the Credit Score range that is applicable to you
- Fill our > your Full name, Email, and Phone Number > Submit
- Click “Continue”
Learn more here.
If you have any questions, we'll be more than happy to help by phone at 800-419-0261 or by email
On top of hiring a great agent, you'll receive a buyer commission refund(*refunds not legal in Alaska, Oregon, Iowa , Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and/or Tennessee). A buyer commission refund is a part of the agent's commission given back to you. This will help you save money for a down payment, new furniture, or anything you'd like.
Commission refunds are not available in these states: Oregon, Kansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Louisiana, Missouri, Alabama, Tennessee
How long does it take to buy a home?
The average home purchase will take 30-45 days to complete. If you are thorough with paperwork,
hire a great Realtor®, and no hiccups arise, then you may be able to buy even
faster. Working with an excellent Realtor® is the first step to a quick and painless home buying journey.
Start your journey here.
Learn more here
Start your journey here.
Learn more here
What Credit Score do I need in order to buy a home?
Typically, you need a credit score of 620 or higher to purchase a home. A higher score will usually get you better lending terms so make sure
to consult directly with your lender about what your options are.
Learn more here.
Learn more here.
What exactly is a buyer commission refund and when will I receive it?
A commission refund (also known as a buyer rebate) is a cash incentive, offered by a buyer's agent, to encourage a prospective home buyer to hire them.
Your refund amount may vary based on your purchase price range and how far along you are in your home search. Most buyer's agents only issue a refund to the person or entity listed on the recorded deed at the closing of a transaction. In order to receive the credit on your Closing Disclosure and at the close of escrow, you’ll need to disclose this refund to your lender or mortgage broker to make sure there is no issue. Depending on the property, not all agents offer refunds.
Buyer commission refunds are not available where prohibited by law, including in Alabama, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon and Tennessee.
Your refund amount may vary based on your purchase price range and how far along you are in your home search. Most buyer's agents only issue a refund to the person or entity listed on the recorded deed at the closing of a transaction. In order to receive the credit on your Closing Disclosure and at the close of escrow, you’ll need to disclose this refund to your lender or mortgage broker to make sure there is no issue. Depending on the property, not all agents offer refunds.
Buyer commission refunds are not available where prohibited by law, including in Alabama, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon and Tennessee.
Is your buyer service available across the U.S.?
Yes! We serve all 50 states in the U.S.
*Some states ban buyer commission refunds according to the Department of Justice. We cannot provide buyer commission refunds of any kind in Alabama, Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon or Tennessee.
*Some states ban buyer commission refunds according to the Department of Justice. We cannot provide buyer commission refunds of any kind in Alabama, Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon or Tennessee.
What is a proposal and what does it include?
A proposal is a personalized, detailed quote prepared specifically for you by your recommended agents in order to earn your business. They help you evaluate the agents and decide who is offering you the best value.
Buyer proposals include commission refunds (also known as rebates) offered by agents in the states that legally allow them. These buyer proposals also include agent profiles and personalized written responses that detail how they will help you buy your next home.
Buyer proposals include commission refunds (also known as rebates) offered by agents in the states that legally allow them. These buyer proposals also include agent profiles and personalized written responses that detail how they will help you buy your next home.
Why should I use a buyer's agent?
Buyer’s agents are well-networked with home inspectors and lenders and can help negotiate for the best possible home price.
They may also have insider information and know about listings even before they hit the market. They can let you know immediately when properties are available so you can make an offer before the competition arrives.
Once you’ve chosen a property, buyer agents can also help you negotiate your offer, schedule inspections, appraisal, and help renegotiate your offer should you find anything in the inspection. They’ll stay with you through closing and beyond.
They may also have insider information and know about listings even before they hit the market. They can let you know immediately when properties are available so you can make an offer before the competition arrives.
Once you’ve chosen a property, buyer agents can also help you negotiate your offer, schedule inspections, appraisal, and help renegotiate your offer should you find anything in the inspection. They’ll stay with you through closing and beyond.
Why shouldn't I just call the listing agent?
Listing agents are there to represent the seller. Agents who represent both sides of a transaction cannot give full disclosure to either party and may not be able to negotiate as strongly on your behalf. It’s a conflict of interest. Buyers generally end up with a much better deal using their own agent.
What is an “Exclusive Buyer Agreement”?
Exclusive Buyer Agreements are made between a buyer and buyer’s agent. In the agreement, the agent promises to deliver the best service and rebates, and the buyer agrees to work exclusively with that agent.
Exclusive Buyer Agreements are not required, but they do generally result in better service and rebate amount. You can negotiate a 24-hour, 7-day, or 30+ day term (or any other term you both agree upon).
Exclusive Buyer Agreements are not required, but they do generally result in better service and rebate amount. You can negotiate a 24-hour, 7-day, or 30+ day term (or any other term you both agree upon).
Do I need to be pre-approved for a mortgage loan? What are the advantages?
Pre-approval is the first step in the home buying process. While we don’t require pre-approval, once you are pre-approved, you’ll understand what your monthly payments will be and determine what you can afford. In most places you cannot make an offer to purchase a home without a pre-approval letter. If you need to get pre-approved we recommend connecting with agents and asking for a lender referral. Agents often have a network of lenders they trust and can help you get a great rate. Once you have your pre-approval letter in hand, you’re ready to find your dream home!
What do we do?
We are a real estate agent marketplace that matches home buyers and sellers with top, local agents who compete for their business. Buyers and sellers receive personalized quotes offering personalized video greeting, transparent commission, buyer commission refunds (when applicable), Q&As and services. Our no-obligation service is fast and FREE. We partner with top agents from reputable brokerages, including Keller Williams, Re/Max, Compass, and many more.
Is our service free?
Yes! We are a free service for home buyers and sellers. Our network agents are local, full-service agents and experts in your specific markets. They have vast networks of resources, including financing professionals, appraisers, inspectors, and contractors. They are also happy and willing to show you homes for your consideration and purchase.
How does our service work?
Our service is fast, FREE, and incredibly easy to use. Here's how it works:
If you are not 100% satisfied, there is no obligation, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Get started now!
- Submit a request online - it takes less than 2 minutes.
- A Realtor.com Coordinator will call you to briefly discuss your specific needs and preferences.
- You'll receive 3 to 5 personalized proposals within 24 hours.
- Review and compare the proposals online and choose which agents to interview.
- Finally, choose an agent to hire and get started!
If you are not 100% satisfied, there is no obligation, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Get started now!
Will my information remain private?
We take your privacy very seriously. We will never sell your information or disclose it to any third parties without your approval. You may cancel your request at any time if you no longer need our services.
Is there a commitment to use your service?
Our service is completely free and there is no obligation to hire any of the real estate agents that contact you. Your Realtor.com Coordinator will provide you with the top 3 to 5 agents in the area within 24 hours. If you would like more choices, we are happy to provide additional agents for comparison.
Where can I find my hired Listing/Buyers Agent contact information?
- Login at sell.realtor.com
- Go to > "My Proposals"
- Scroll down to "Your Proposals" > Click on the "Phone" or "Email" Icon
- Display: Phone # & Email Address
If you're having a hard time locating the contact information, we'll be more than happy to help through email or by phone at 800-419-0261
How long do I have to make a decision on which agent to interview?
It's best to make a decision 48 hours after receiving proposals to make your choices, but you can take as long
as you need. If you think you'll need more than 48 hours after receiving the proposals, just talk to your Realtor.com Coordinator
and we can help you evaluate each proposal and choose the best one. If you want to be matched with an agent on the same day you submit a request,
we will expedite our process to satisfy your request.
What questions should I ask during agent interviews?
The interview is your opportunity to find out if the listing agent is a good fit for you, so we encourage you to review our Top Questions to Ask a Listing Agent to get a good sense of questions to ask, or simply view this presentation.
What questions should I ask during agent interviews?
The interview is your opportunity to find out if the listing agent is a good fit for you, so we encourage you to review our Top Questions to Ask a Listing Agent to get a good sense of questions to ask, or simply view this presentation.
How do I choose a real estate agent to work with?
Choosing an agent will be a critical part of your home journey. You want to make sure that the agent is knowledgeable in the area,
has previous sales in the area, meets your financial needs, and is a talented marketer/negotiator.
We work with hand-selected network agents
across the United States that can meet your exact home journey needs. There is no obligation and the service is completely free - RealChoice™ Selling
See more tips about choosing a real estate agent here: How to Choose a Real Estate Agent in Six Easy Steps
See more tips about choosing a real estate agent here: How to Choose a Real Estate Agent in Six Easy Steps
Why should I use your service instead of negotiating with the agent directly?
We are here to help you compare real estate agents in your area and find a trusted expert that best addresses your needs. Here are just a few of the reasons to use our services:
- Top Agents: We analyze data to get an unbiased view of agent performance, then make sure partner agents meet our selective criteria.
- Personalized Agent Greetings: Get to know your agent virtually through personalized video and voice greetings directly from the agent.
- Our Agents Work Harder: Agents know we monitor their interview rate and win rate, so they try harder because they want more business from us.
- No Hassle: We bring agents to compete for you, so you don't have to waste time and energy researching them, nor endure the stress and hassle of negotiating commissions or buyer commission refunds on your own.
- Support: We're with you every step of the way! Your Realtor.com Coordinator will guide you through the entire selling process and address any of your questions or concerns.
- No Risk: Our no-obligation service is fast, free, and easy to use. There's no risk!
Why should I use your agents instead of a personal referral?
While a personal referral might be tempting, you are unlikely to get the best possible agent through a friend. Here’s why:
- Competition raises the bar. Since our network agents compete for your business, they’re far more likely to offer you better services than a friend's referral.
- We'll find you a local market expert, or one who specializes in your neighborhood. A personal referral may not specialize in your local market, which can be a huge disadvantage.
- Your Realtor.com Coordinator will guide you through the entire process, offer you insider tips, and answer all your questions.
- Best of all, our service is free, fast, and there's no obligation to use one of our recommendations unless you are 100% satisfied.
How many proposals will I get and how soon?
Typically, you’ll receive 3 to 5 personalized proposals from your agent matches within 24 hours of your request being confirmed. If you want to be matched with an agent on the same day you submit a request, just let us know and we’ll expedite the process.
What happens if I don’t receive proposals within 24 hours?
Your Realtor.com Coordinator will give you an update within 24 hours as to the reasons and what steps to take next. If this is an urgent matter, reach out to us at 800-419-0261. Normal business hours are 9 am to 9 pm Eastern Standard Time.
Are Realtor.com network agents full-service agents?
Our network agents are local, full-service agents and experts in the specific markets you're buying or selling in. They have vast networks of resources including financing professionals, appraisers, inspectors, and contractors you can call upon. They are also happy and willing to show you homes for your consideration and purchase.
Is the lowest commission rate always the best?
Not necessarily. It’s important to discuss the commission and projected net proceeds with your agent. Pay close attention to what the agent is offering in their listing package. An experienced agent with a higher commission who provides professional video, pictures, staging, handyman services, etc may sell your house quickest - giving you the highest net proceeds.