FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How are you different?

Our goal is to match you with the best real estate agents. We ask you about your needs and give you 3 to 5 personalized proposals from the best local agents. Agents that partner with us do not pay us to recommend them, so we select the agent that is the absolute best fit for you.

We know how stressful it can be to sell or buy a home, so we provide a committed advisor to assist you through your entire process. We also provide in-depth profiles on each of our agents, including who they are, marketing materials, services, and online reviews.

I want to sell my home in 3 months, when should I submit my request?

Our agents are here for you whenever you are ready to begin your process. We suggest the earlier the better. Our agents will help you with potential home improvements, assistance with leaving the property, and connect you with reliable service providers. In addition, our agents evaluate market trends in order to help you decide which time is best to list and price your home to receive the best offers. Our top agents are so well connected that you may have an offer before your house is even listed!

What is the average price for homes in my area?

Many conditions factor into what the average price is for the area in which you live. These conditions include the condition of your home and especially your location. We also include a rough estimate as to what the average home price in different states. When you meet with one of our partnered agents, you will be provided the most accurate estimate price for your home.

When should I interview an agent?

We recommend that you contact an agent within 48 hours of receiving their personalized proposal. You are more than welcome to take more time if you feel it necessary. In addition, we can help you in your decision making process. If you prefer to be matched with an agent the same day of submitting a request, we can expedite the process for you.

What questions should I ask during agent interviews?

We include a list of questions that could be important for your selection process. The point of the interview is for you to decide which agent is best for you. The questions you decide are entirely up to your discretion.

What is the proposal?

The personalized proposals you will receive include a comprehensive quote prepared for you by our agents in order to work with you. Because you receive personalized proposals from each agent, you are able to compare proposals to see what works best for you.

Proposals are similar for both buyers and sellers, but are slightly different.

Proposals for sellers include commission savings and services such as, open houses, staging, virtual tours, CMA, and photography. On the other hand, buyers proposals include savings and a rebate when applicable. Both include agent profiles with reviews, statistics, and more.

You will have an advisor to assist you in reviewing each proposal and making the decision that is best for you.

Can I share competing agents’ proposals?

We feel it is best if you do not share agents’ proposals. Agents prefer to not make public the savings they offer to Top Ranked Agent buyers and sellers. The private proposals are meant to allow a competitive nature by having confidentiality regarding savings. As a result, you will get access to those exclusive savings.

View our terms and conditions here.

I currently have a real estate agent, but I want a new one. Can I still submit a request with Top Ranked Agent?

According to the code of ethics, agents are not allowed to engage a seller/buyer that is represented by another agent. If the seller were to reach out to the agent directly, or through Top Ranked Agent, you should not have an issue. The rule is designated a no poaching policy, which is not applicable if the seller reaches out through Top Ranked Agent.

What is a Buyer commission refund and when will I receive it?

A commission refund is a cash incentive, offered by a buyer’s agent, to encourage a home buyer to hire them. Home buyers do not pay any commission fees if working with a real estate agent. The seller is responsible for covering the commission fees paid to both the selling and buying agents.

Your refund amount is dependant upon your purchase price range and how far along you are in your home search. Most buyer’s agents will only issue a refund to the person listed on the deed at the closing of a transaction. At the close of escrow, you need to make sure you disclose this refund to your lender/mortgage broker to make sure there is no issue to receive the credit on your HUD-1 statement.

Where prohibited by law, buyer’s commissions are not available in Alabama, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Tennessee.

Why should I use a Buyer’s Agent?

The advantage to using a buyer’s agent is their ability to first see when listings go live, even before they show up on other real estate websites. These agents also have insider information and know about listings before those listings hit the market. Because of this information, you will know when properties are available, so you can make an offer before other competition enters.

Once you have selected a property, agents are able to help negotiate your offer, schedule inspections, appraise, and help renegotiate your offer if necessary. Agents are available to assist you through your entire process.

Why shouldn’t I call the listing agent?

Listing agents are available to represent the seller. Agents who are representing both buyers and sellers cannot give full disclosure to either party. They may not be able to negotiate appropriately on your behalf because of a conflict of interest. Buyers usually receive a much better deal when using their own agent.

What is an exclusive buyer agreement?

An exclusive buyer agreement is made between a buyer and a buyer’s agent. In this agreement, the agent is to deliver the best service and the buyer agrees to exclusively work with that agent.

An exclusive buyer’s agreement is not required, but generally results in better service. You can agree to a 24-hour, 7-day, 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?

The first step in the home buying process is pre-approval. We do not specifically require pre-approval, but once you are pre-approved, you will know what your monthly payments will be and determine what you can afford. In many areas you cannot make a purchase offer without a pre-approval letter. If you still need pre-approval, we recommend asking for a lender referral through an agent. Agents can typically get you a better rate because of their connections with trusted lenders. Once you have your pre-approval letter, you can move forward with deciding on your future home!