Sarasota Florida Flat Fee MLS Listings FSBO - Discount Realtor & Broker

 I highly recommend all my FSBO, or For Sale By Owner, Sellers go over a thorough investigation of how the Flat Fee MLS (MLS = Multiple Listing Service) Program Works.. This Q&A Section, provided by one of our affiliates flatfeelisting.com, listed below is a great description of how the Flat Fee MLS Listing Process Works & may answer questions a FSBO may have as how Realtors will Preview and Sell Your Listing, Home, or Property.. Feel free to Contact Me, Justin Shirley, @ 941-448-4872 for additional Questions and More detailed descriptions of Your Flat Fee MLS Listing..

The MLS is the best and only way to sell a property. 90% of all properties are sold as a result of the MLS, or Multiple Listing Service.

The MLS is a tool for realtors to list and sell properties. The listing real estate broker for your state is going to list your property in the MLS for a flat fee. If you do not wish to pay a commission (as a result of a real estate agent bring you a qualified buyer), you cannot get listed in the MLS. The MLS rules require that a commission be listed up front for every property that an agent enters into the MLS.

If a real estate agent brings you a buyer, you must pay a commission at close of escrow. You cannot be listed in the MLS if you did not wish to pay a commission if your property sells thru a real estate agent. The commission must be specified up front on the paperwork that you will complete after making payment. If you sell your own property as a “for sale

What is the Multiple Listing Service?
The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is the key to Home-Sales Success. The MLS lists the vast majority of real estate listings which are listed “for sale” by real estate brokers and their agents. All types of real estate property is listed in the real estate multiple listing service; houses, townhomes, condominiums, commercial property, lots, acreage and even rental properties. There are 1000s of regional Multiple Listing Services located thru out the nation. Real Estate Associations in all 50 US states and Canada run their own MLS Systems. Statistics show that homes listed on the MLS sell faster.

“The MLS” is the secret to success of real estate sales, directly responsible for about 4 of 5 sales nationwide. About 85% of home buyers use a REALTOR® to help them locate a property. When a possible buyer contacts a Real Estate Agent regarding a home purchase, the Agent will search the MLS for homes matching the buyers’ desires, wants and needs. Statistics show that homes listed on the MLS sell faster.

Is this the same Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to which all Realtors® belong?
Yes. All participating MLS REALTORS® belong to their regional association of REALTORS®. The Listing Agent that will be assigned to place your property in the proper MLS for your region will be paid from the flat fee that you pay to TheSarasotadeed.COM- There is no additional fee to pay the listing agent that is assigned to list your property into the real estate multiple listing service.

How Much Money does the Real Estate Listing Agent that lists my house into the MLS get paid?
The Listing real estate agent only gets paid a flat fee for listing your property into the MLS.

Why would the listing real estate agent want to list my home in the MLS if they’re not going to receive a commission when it sells?
Realtors in our network provide services for a flat fee for two main reasons – volume business and more exposure for their real estate firm.

Is there a “MLS” which may be used by owners selling themselves, without a REALTOR?
NO. There is no FSBO MLS System. The general public is not allowed to list their own property in the REALTORS® Multiple Listing Service. Only a State Licensed REALTOR® Member may access their regional MLS to list a property for sale, or find homes for buyers. This is the same MLS used by REALTORS® in your area, one you will be listed in, which is accessed by Agents in your area.

NOTE: Please be aware in order to get your property listed into your regional Multiple listing Service it has to be listed by a licensed Real Estate Listing Agent that is a member of the MLS. This agent is assigned to you by thesarasotadeed.com and gets paid by thesarasotadeed.com - There is no additional money you pay to the listing agent. A REALTOR® has to be involved in order for your property to be listed into the MLS and REALTOR.com®

Is the MLS the best way to sell my home?
Yes, the vast majority of homes are sold through the MLS due to the large network of REALTORS® working with home buyers. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reports homes listed by REALTORS® result in a higher net price to Sellers compared to “FSBO” home sale transactions.

Will Realtors Show & Sell my home if it’s not listed on the MLS?
It is not likely. Of course, there are a very few exceptions. REALTORS® operate completely from MLS computer listings. The MLS Listing Agreement specifies the REALTORS® commission and without this agreement REALTORS® will bypass FSBO homes. Of course, you may sell your home without a REALTOR®, but once listed, REALTORS® do not regard you as a FSBO but simply another listing for them to sell. Real Estate Agents will generally avoid FSBO properties due to the fact that they are working with buyers and have no written agreement to be compensated. If the seller has not agreed in writing to pay a commission to a Buyer’s Agent, the buyer could cut the Agent right out of the deal and negotiate directly with the seller.

Will Realtors® Show and Sell my home even though I paid for a Flat Fee Listing?
 Yes. Your MLS Flat Fee Listing will look exactly the same as any other listing. There is no way to tell how much you paid to get on the MLS. Regardless of whom you listed with or what you paid, your listing will look no different from any other listing in form and style. The listing broker’s name appears on the MLS, not TheSarasotaDeed.COM name. Our flat fee listing method gets your property on the same MLS used by your area REALTORS®. Your listing will appear the same as all other mls property listings.

Is it True some Agents may not show my home if they know it is a flat fee listing?
Absolutely not! That is a misleading and somewhat fraudulent representation made by some Real Estate Agents in a clever attempt to dissuade you from doing a flat fee MLS listing. First of all, when the Agent sees your listing on the MLS computer, there is no way the Agent knows it’s a flat fee listing. The Listing Agent’s name and contact information shown on your Multiple Listing Service will be your Listing Agent, not TheSarasotaDeed.com. In addition, the listing commission is not disclosed on the MLS! Even if the Buyer’s Agent somehow knew you were not paying a high traditional listing commission, that would not effect the showings, since the Agent is not concerned about the commission you are paying the listing broker. After all, the Buyer’s Agent ONLY cares about the commission offered to him/her to sell your home, not how much you paid the Listing Agent!

Will Realtors® show and sell my home if I am not listed with their company?
Yes. The main purpose of MLS is for REALTORS® to sell each other’s listings.

How important is it the listing REALTORS® office be in my neighborhood for my home to sell?
It does not matter. It’s merely an often-used false marketing method and fabrication to get you thinking it makes a difference so you end-up listing with them. Comparatively few potential buyers reside in your neighborhood. Most buyers come from another part of town, different areas, another city, or out-of-state. Even if a prospective buyer happens to live nearby, why would location of the listing broker make any difference at all? Keep in mind, a buyer who comes via The MLS in all likelihood already has a REALTOR® who is their buyers’ Agent. A buyer rarely hires the Listing Agent. If the Buyers’ Agent needs to contact the Listing Agent they normally use the phone or fax to submit purchase contract offer . . . in-person contact is never really needed. The listing broker could be located in another city or even out-of-state, it really makes no difference.

Who Will Realtors® call for Showings?
You have several options, and should discuss the best alternatives with the agent who will take care of your listing. You can have agents call you directly to make appointments, if you wish. The most common way showings are done, is the listing broker indicates showing instructions on the multiple listing service computer. This can say “Call Owner direct to arrange for a showings” (giving your name and contact phone number) P.S. There are a few areas in the country (Ohio) where broker’s phone number is given for showings as the MLS does not permit Owners’ contact info. If so, the listing broker will refer the call directly to you, to schedule the showing appointment. REALTORS® customarily call Owner before showing the home.

How long should I expect to be on the market?
Your home should sell quickly if priced right, in a good location and shows well. The MLS & REALTOR.com® will draw maximum attention to your home.

How long will my property be listed on the MLS for the flat fee?
The MLS flat fee listing is good for 6-months. Most homes are sold within a couple of months of listing or sooner. Many homes listed have sold within a day to a week. Rarely is a renewal of the listing needed. The agent will offer renewal of the listing — check with agent as to the fee, which you pay him/her direct (some agents renew INCLUDED-this is listed on the website).

Can I cancel my Flat Fee Listing at anytime?
Yes, you can cancel your listing at any time. Just notify the listing agent you wish to cancel your listing.

Is there a benefit to listing with a traditional high-commission broker?
NO. Your listing will end up in the same MLS if you were to re-list your property with a more Traditional Real Estate Agent charging you higher commissions. Of course, there are no refunds once your property is listed in your regional Multiple Listing Service (except possibly under the terms of our “REALTOR® Referral” Money-back Guarantee.) You may also apply for the “Money Back Guarantee” by sending FlatFeeListing.com an email

Do you offer a money-back guarantee if not satisfied after my home is listed, if I cancel my listing to go with another REALTOR?
If you are not completely satisfied you can qualify for a 100% money-back guarantee under certain conditions. This is based on TheSarasotaDeed.COM referring your listing to a new real estate broker, and who is acceptable to both of us. In the event you want to cancel (for any reason), and wish to list with a more traditional broker (of course, prior to getting a sales contract), we agree to refund the money you paid us by rebating the money payable at close-of-escrow as long as all parties agree to a standard REALTOR® Referral Agreement.

What’s included with my listing?
The MLS, REALTOR.com &; and about 50 other real estate internet sites, plus many extras as listed on the website page for your state.

Commission Questions
What is the difference between a “Selling Agent” and a “Listing Agent”?

The term Agent means a Licensed REALTOR.® Some people use the word Agent others use the word REALTOR - it means the same as far as descriptions go to the public.
· Please note that TheSarasotaDeed.COM is not your Listing Broker/Agent.
· TheSarasotaDeed.COM provides a referral service to owners of real estate property. Once you buy the service from flatfeelisting.com, we refer your MLS flat fee listing to a Listing Real Estate Agent that is a member of your regional MLS. This Listing Agent is providing you with a tremendous service by listing your property in the MLS, REALTOR.com, etc. and saving you thousands of dollars in real estate commission for the flat fee you paid flatfeelisting.com - Once your property is listed in the MLS, TheSarasotaDeed.com pays the listing real estate agent.
· A Selling Agent is the Real Estate agency who actually sells the property. They are sometimes called Buyer’s Agents.
· The Listing Agent is the Real Estate agency who lists your home for sale in the MLS.
Do I have to pay a Commission if house sells because of the MLS?
Yes. Any REALTOR® bringing a ready, willing and able buyer with a satisfactory contract will be due a “selling” commission of your choice. This commission must be determined by Seller when completing the Listing Agreement. This Commission paid to the selling agent is shown on the MLS.

How much commission do I have to pay to the Buyer’s Agent?
The commission the Seller pays the Buyer’s Agent is totally up to the Seller. Real Estate commission fees are not FIXED, fees are negotiable by LAW. REALTORS® cannot demand the Seller pay a certain commission to sell their home on the MLS. REALTORS® that demand the seller pay 3% to buyer’s agent can and will have their license revoked.

If I find my own buyer, will I still have to pay a selling commission?
No. If you find a buyer for your home with no Agent being the procuring source, there is no commission to pay.

Lockbox, Sign & Photo Questions
Items listed on the state pages may vary at any time without notice. Not all agents offer exactly the same included items. We may have to change agents temporarily due to current agent out of town, or for any other reasons. If this happens, your included items may vary.

You get 1-photo included INCLUDED with your MLS and Realtor.com listing. However, some agents allow more photos in the MLS for an additional charge.

You get 1-photo included INCLUDED which appears on Realtor.com. This is the same photo that appears on the MLS. However, some agents allow more photos on Realtor.com for a small charge.

You may also get a sign or realtors lockbox from the listing real estate agent - Some agents offer a INCLUDED sign, other agents charge a fee for the sign. Agents that offer a lockbox charge for it, which you pay them directly for. The SELLER can purchase a mechanical lockbox from any hardware store (Ace, HomeDepot or Lowes). FlatFeeListing does not include a “for sale sign” or lockbox, but this can purchased seperately.

Do I need a lockbox while house is listed on MLS?
Owner can decide whether or not to use an optional key-lockbox, which is a metal container for your house key(s) and is normally hung on the front door knob or gate. The MLS Listing will advise Realtor’s if they can not reach you by phone, they may use the key lockbox for showings. It provides access to Agents when the owner is away, thus assuring full exposure to prospective buyers. Without a lockbox, Agents representing buyers will have to set appointments to meet you at the house to view the home. If you do not have a lockbox, you may miss out on some potential buyers who do not have time to wait. Lockboxes are completely removable and controllable by you. Your Listing Agent will indicate your showing instructions on the MLS and contact phone number to call you first for showings. Showings are most always done on an appointment only basis (assuming key lockbox is not used if unable to reach you). It is rare an Agent will knock on the door without first making appointment with the homeowner. If you want a REALTORS® electronic lockbox you can request one from the listing agent (not all flat fee listing agents have or use electronic lockboxes, due to the cost and delivery time required for installation and removal from door with special key only real estate agents have.) The listing agent will lease one to you for a fee.

I have a For Sale By Owner sign, should I use the Realtor’s sign?
You can replace your sign with the Realtor’s sign if you wish. If you prefer to display your listing broker’s sign, many do offer a sign INCLUDED or as an optional service for a fee. After you get listed in the MLS, ask your Real Estate Agent if you can use their for-sale-sign, rather than your “For sale by owner sign.”

Can I use my own exterior home photo for the MLS?
Yes, it is recommended that you send via email to the listing real estate agent the photo(s) in jpg format. However, it is highly recommended to let the MLS photographer* take a professional photo of your home. Once inputted into the MLS, the photographer is dispatched to take the photo. Photos usually uploaded to the MLS within a few business days. The MLS then transfers the photo to the public internet sites for your area. *subject to some MLS regional restrictions - some MLS have a photographer to take an exterior photo and others do not have a photographer to take a photo. If the MLS does not have a photographer to take 1 photo, the seller can submit a photo via email to the agent.

Can I have additional photos added to the MLS or get a Virtual Tour?
Yes. After you get listed on the MLS ask your Real Estate Agent for that option. Many of the referral Real Estate Agents usually offer extra photos for a small fee (some even do for INCLUDED) and virtual tours from $89 to $199 which is a reasonable additional fee. The cost is very minor compared to the benefit of saving thousands of dollars in real estate commission. However, additional photos and virtual tours are not necessary as the real estate multiple listing service in all likelihood will sell your home, with or without paying for extra cost services.

Do you offer INCLUDED forms and contracts?
Your listing agent will supply you with the forms you will need. If your home sells thru the MLS, the buyer’s agent will prepare the purchase contract.

Listing Questions
Why signup with TheSarasotaDeed.COM

We only work with licensed and experienced Real Estate Brokers
We have one of the largest Realtor Network in America
Your property will be listed quickly
We offer more Quality exposure than any other Competitors 
We give you more Value
We are open Weekends
There are no hidden fees or charges
We Can INCLUDE forms, plus reports, etc
No other Flat Fee MLS company offers as much exposure and coverage!
What steps are involved in getting my property listed in the MLS?

Place your flat fee listing order
The Flat Fee Listing Real Estate Agent that is a member of the regional MLS for your area is contacted and given your contact information
The Flat Fee Listing Agent will typically list your property within 24-48 hrs . . . after getting your completed forms back, such as the Listing Contract, MLS Data Sheet, etc. However some agents do not work weekends, so you will have to wait until Monday to be listed.
Your home is listed on the MLS, REALTOR com® & other websites as soon as you return paperwork to the Listing Agent

How do I determine the sales price for my home?
You can Click on link below to get this information INCLUDED. We have heard from many sellers in most states that this service works extremely well — Zillow.com

How does information about my house get on the MLS?
The Listing Agent will have you complete the MLS Data Sheet. This Data Sheet will require you to answer all questions listed, which will supply Buyers with the type of information they require to see if your home meets their buying criteria. The MLS Data Sheet fields cannot be customized. You will however be able to write a description highlighting your home’s special features. The information on the Data Sheet also goes to REALTOR.com®, plus all the public internet sites for your area.

Can I add more information to the MLS later?
Yes. You can add information to your listing, such as room dimensions or description by emailing this information to the listing agent..

Can I make changes to my MLS listing?
Yes you can make changes. Contact the listing agent by email with the changes.

Internet & Website Questions
What is the difference between public websites, such as REALTOR.com, and the MLS?
Public websites like REALTOR.com receive listings directly from the MLS itself. Unlike the MLS which is updated instantly, the public internet sites are typically updated every 1-2 business days. Because of this, REALTORS® only use the MLS system, which is a closed system linked to their offices.

Can I go to a website and see my MLS listing?
Yes, the MLS is on the internet and buyers can go and view all the listings. Plus in order to get listed on REALTOR.com® you have to first be listed in the MLS.

 I hope this clears up any questions, or concerns you may have about the Flat Fee MLS Listing process.. Please Contact Shirley International Realty Inc. about Selling Your Home!

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Shirley International Realty Inc.’s Flat Fee MLS Listing Service has become so popular, we’ve expanded and now list property in all Florida Counties.. Each Realtor Assocation has its own Specific MLS, but we’ve noticed that many of these Associations combine & offer similar MLS’s.. Our Flat Fee MLS Listing Niche has been very particular in the Associations we join, but have now teamed up with a number of affiliates and can service any Flat Fee MLS listing in the State of Florida for $199.. This service provides maximum FSBO exposure through MLS advertising and has shown to be the most cost-effective way for For sale by owner, of FSBO, to sell their home.. I’ve laid out below the individual associations and particular MLS’s that each County in the State of Florida services for their particular branch of Realtor Association.. If you have a home located in a county below, call us today to get your home listed on the Multiple Listing Service..

Mid-Florida MLS
Sarasota
Manatee
Hillsboro
Orange
Osceola
Polk
Seminole
West Volusia
Lake
Charlotte
 
Southeast Florida MLS
Miami-Dade
Palm Beach
Broward
 
Northeast Florida MLS
Duval
Clay
Putnam
St. John County
 
Flagler MLS
Flagler
 
SpaceCoast MLS
Brevard
 
Daytona Beach & Area MLS
East Volusia County

Sunshine MLS
Collier County
 
North Florida MLS
Columbia
Suwanee
Baker
Union
Lafayette
 
Innovia MLS
Hernando
 
Ft. Myers MLS
Lee
Hendry
 
Gainesville MLS
Alachua
 
Greater Nassau MLS
Nassau
 
Pinellas Realtor MLS
Pinellas
West Pasco
 
Paragon MLS
Leon
Walkula
Gasden
Jefferson
 
Highlands MLS
Hardee
Highlands
 
Indian River MLS
Indian River

Pensacola MLS
Escambia
Santa Rosa
 
Chipola MLS
Jackson
Washington
Okaloosa
Walton
Holmes
Calhoun
 
Florida Keys MLS (Flex MLS)
Monroe
 
Dixie-Gilgrest MLS
Dixie
Gilgrist
Levy
Madison
Taylor
 
Desoto MLS
Desoto
 
Realtor MLS of Franklin, Gulf, & Mexico Beach
Franklin
Gulf
Mexico Beach City

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High property insurance premiums are weighing the pocket books of my clients & its so severe in some areas that necessities such as food spending has to be re-evaluated.. The root of our property insurance tax burdens stem from hurricane damage and liabilities of owning property on the Gulf Coast.. Finally, a little relief is on the way.. The Federal Government is extending a tax credit to Coastal homeowners who have been severly affected by rising Property Insurance Premiums.. Below is an article I’m passing along to you from the Sarasota Board of Realtors.. Along with The Sarasota Deed, you are always “In the Know”..

WASHINGTON – Aug. 1, 2008 – Coastal residents of states hard-hit by hurricanes – including Mississippi, Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina and Texas – would benefit from proposed tax credits for high insurance premiums and storm mitigation improvements.

Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., thwarted in an effort earlier this year to expand the federal flood insurance program, is taking a new tack on insurance relief for coastal residents in a bill he is introducing Friday.

“I think of this as a short-term focused solution to provide immediate assistance to people in coastal areas,” said Wicker in an exclusive interview with McClatchy Newspapers.

The bill would give residents affected by hurricanes in 2004, 2005 or 2006, a one-time tax credit up to $5,000 if their insurance premium increased 50 percent over a three-year period. It would also create a permanent tax credit of up to $5,000 per year for residents who make hurricane mitigation improvements to their homes. The bill is being co-sponsored by Sens. Thad Cochran, R-Miss., Mel Martinez, R-Fla., and David Vitter, R-La.

“This is a way of providing some sort of assistance to taxpayers,” said Wicker. “We shouldn’t make them wait another year.” Mississippi coastal insurance rates, for example, have jumped 80 percent after Hurricane Katrina.

Under Wicker’s plan, individuals would be eligible to receive a one-time tax credit up to $5,000 for an amount equal to 50 percent of the increase of their insurance premiums over three years. For example, if a resident paid $1,000 a year for homeowners’ insurance in 2005 and $5,000 in 2008, that person could claim a tax credit of 50 percent of the $4,000 increase.

Coastal resident along the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean would also be eligible for a proposed permanent tax credit up to $5,000. Homeowners could claim 25 percent of the cost of hurricane mitigation improvements, such as elevating a structure or reinforcing it.

Rep. Gene Taylor, D-Miss., who lost his home in Katrina, has argued that the inability of Coast residents and businesses to secure insurance for wind as well as water damage has hurt rebuilding. His bill to expand the federal flood insurance program to include wind coverage passed the House but met considerable resistance in the Senate. Wicker proposed the wind amendment to the flood insurance authorization bill but it was soundly defeated 74-19.

Wicker said in the interview that he felt he could not overcome the objections of Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Chris Dodd, D-Conn., to expanding the federal program but that he had raised awareness of the need for insurance relief.

“It looks like a permanent type of solution will not be approved this year,” said Wicker. “I think the chances are better for this approach.”

Take advantage of this policy and apply for the credit if you are one of the unfortunate homeowners burdened by Sky Rocketing Insurance Premiums & hurricane damage..

 Justin Shirley

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Shirley International Realty Inc.’s Flat Fee MLS Listing Service has become such an unparalleled selling niche in our real estate market.. Our real estate company has joined the Mid-Florida MLS which includes 13 Realtor Assocations and over 35,000 Realtors! This means that any home, condo, land, or property you’re looking to sale from Orlando to Port Charlotte will be seen by all Florida Real Estate Licensed Realtors/Appraisers, & Mortgage Brokers constanlty scowering the MLS.. from Orlando to Port Charlotte.. Even in this slow market, we’re listing more homes than ever because local sellers are seeing the value in being promoted on the Multiple Listing Service.. Even national renowned builders such as KB Homes, & local powerhouse names like Capstone Construction, have teamed-up with our office to have their inventory homes listed through our Flat Fee MLS Service.. Our biggest testimony for the success of our Flat Fee Programs are the Sellers & Builders that are now outsourcing their listing inventory to us.. $199 will get your home listed on the local MLS & Realtor.com for local Realtors & National/International Buyers to come preview your home..

I’ve expanded my Flat Fee MLS Listing Service beyond Florida Boundaries and reach out now to ANY seller around the US Looking for MLS Coverage.. Scanning over my inventory of listing from the past 8 weeks, I’m seeing that Shirley International Realty Inc. has listed 5 homes in Maine, 4 in New Hampshire, 4 Homes in New York, 6 Homes in Massachusetts & a handful of properties in states such as Maryland, Virginia, Minnesota, & New Jersey. Our Flat Fee Listing of Flat Fee Network Brokers is expanding everyday and we’re helping promote sellers listings in every corner of America! Our focus is centered around maximizing the promotion of your property, while still saving you the most money.. This is called Grade-A Value & its something we take great pride in offering..

If you, or anyone you know is looking to sell a home and isn’t interested in paying a Realtor 6% to do so, please call Justin Shirley, CEO of Shirley International Realty, to talk about how to get your home the most expansive promotions for a Minimal Flat Fee/Rate.. I’m always “sweetening” the promotional marketing our Real Estate Company offers for your home, & specialize in Web Marketing.. The MLS, or Multiple Listing Service, is the foundation that you SHOULD HAVE in selling your home in any market.. Realtors are waiting for your home to hit the MLS so they can bring their most urgent buyers to you & close a sell.. You No Longer have to pay 6-7% for this service.. We offer Full Service Packages for any seller looking for assistance in scheduling showings for your property, negotiating contracts, over-the-top marketing, & access to our full support staff.. If you’re just looking for the most valueable MLS listing Package, talk to me about listing your home on the MLS for $199 (& this listing stays active until the property sells, or until you request it be terminated..)..

We’re here to provide quality listing services and can offer this package anywhere in the State of Florida.. Located outside the State?? We’ll get any property isted from Seattle, to New York, & San Diego to Key West! We’re constantly adapting to Real Estate & Economic Conditions to give you more Marketing Bang for Your Selling Buck!!! Innovation will continue to take place in Shirley International Realty Inc.’s offices..

Justin Shirley..

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(I love these Cartoons! They bring light to, and relax the mood of our dismal Real Estate Conditions.. May was a great month though! Read on..)

This information was compiled & presented by the Sarasota Association of Realtors reflecting, condos & Single-Family Homes Sold in the Month of May, 2008.. Shirley International Realty Inc. looks forward to a summer fueled by International Buying..

Sarasota Real Estate Sales Hits New High Since March 2007! The Best is Yet to Come!

Home sales in the Sarasota MLS for May 2008 stood at 627 - the highest level in 14 months, and approximately 92 percent higher than the sales in January 2008. In 2008, sales have been increasing each month, possibly due to the influence of the new property tax portability law enacted in late January. Sales have climbed from 329 in January to 423 in February, 514 in March and 567 in April.
 
“This year, the Sarasota real estate market has been a beacon of hope as the state and national markets continue to struggle,” said Helen Sosso, 2008 SAR President. “I believe our local agents have embraced the concept of a buyers’ market, and educated sellers on the realities of pricing. We still have advantageous interest rates, and our communities’ natural and cultural amenities always attract buyers.”
 
The May 2008 report continued to reflect strength in pending sales, which stood at 692 - the second highest level since June 2006.  Last month’s pending sales stood at 756, the highest in the period.   In May 2007 only 541 pending sales were reported.  Like closed sales, pending sales have been edging upward since December 2007, when there were only 374 pending sales reported. Pending sales reflect contracts executed by buyers and sellers, and indicate more closings in upcoming months and an improving market in the early summer months.
 
Inventory levels were lower in May 2008 for the third month, and are the lowest they have been since February 2006.  Still, with 9,500 single family and 5,100 condos listed, buyers have a huge selection of more affordably priced housing to select from.  The reduced inventory is a combination of fewer properties being listed, and increasing sales numbers.  As the inventory continues to decline, the market will come back to more balance.  As we approach equilibrium, the buyer’s market we’ve been experiencing will be gone, and price appreciation will creep back into the market.
 
In general, the Sarasota MLS statistics show a rebound throughout 2008 - every month seeing stronger numbers than the month before. In fact, Sarasota statistics have been stronger in recent months than sales in the Miami market, which is a much bigger geographic and demographic area.
 
In the local Sarasota market, we have seen the trend already beginning toward lower inventories, higher sales, and a leveling of prices after several months of declines. The May figures reflect this new reality.

Sarasota Association of Realtors..

This is great news! Looks like our market is showing a short term rebound.. Who wouldn’t want to live in this paradise?

Justin Shirley
941-448-4872
CEO
Shirley International Realty

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(No Matter How High Inventory Gets, or How Out of Whack Rates Become, This Picture Represents Why Florida Real Estate Will Always Be In High Demand.. We Live in Paradise..) 

I’ve Been Working Overtime To Bring You Better Service.. 

Wow! Its been a great 2 months for Shirley International Realty! I apologize for being a little distant from my blog, (You’ll notice I haven’t posted in a few weeks) but I have been “on the ball” rounding up as many great relationships as possible that assist me in selling Real Estate! My Flat Fee MLS Listings have been a dependable avenue for sellers to get exposure on the MLS and I’ve learned so many things about my competition.. I want to re-iterate why I feel we have a competitive advantage over Full Service Listing Agents, & other Flat Fee Listing Brokers..

Full Service Listing Agents Aren’t Providing Over-the-Top Service..

The Real Estate Market is slow.. Unfortunately, thats the reality of the situation we’re in.. When this happens its only natural for real agents to 1)Bail out of the business (to the tune of 1,000+ agents dropping out of the local Sarasota Board of Realtors) 2)Tighten up on Marketing Expenses.. Even I am very picky about the Full Service Listings I am taking and have turned down quite a few because I know the seller can’t afford to pay me 6%, and price the home to sell.. I don’t think every seller is in this distressed situation, but for the ones that are, dishing out 6% shouldn’t be “in the cards” for your hard earned equity.. Full Service Listings are simply listing your home on the MLS and then waiting for another agent to bring a buyer, so they can collect their commission.. Is this the attitude you want from your sales person? I’m not saying all listing agents operate like this because I know quite a few that are worthy of that 6%.. However, most assume holding a few open houses and running a classified ad is worth 6%.. I have a better option for you..

Find the Best Way to Get Your Home on the MLS..

Our Flat Fee Listing service eliminates the seller from paying a listing commission.. This allows you to offer broker incentives and discount your property’s asking price.. We can put you on the MLS for a Low Flat Rate & STILL provide you more service than most 6% agents.. I love my Flat Fee offering because we’re closing so many deals for our Flat Fee clients by saving them money at the closing table & delivering a great price to the new buyer! The real estate market is still in good shape for a sale.. Inventory is up, but you can compete as long as your receiving the right advice & marketing strategies from savvy real estate people..

The Reasons Why Shirley International Realty Can Help You Sell Through a Flat Fee MLS Listing..

-1) We can list & sell any home in the continental US (I’ll go into how we’ve worked this out in a future post).. This ability gives us maximum exposure to the latest marketing strategies & techniques to get your home sold the quickest in any market.. (Florida isn’t such a bad market by the way!)

2) When you Flat Fee list with us, you can make changes to your listing at any time.. (This is very uncommon among my competitors.. This gives most Flat Fee Brokers an opportunity to charge you more for your listing.. Not with us.. You need a new picture added to the listing, or a price change on your home, We’ll Get it Done For You!)

3) Our Price is Unbeatable.. $199 until your home is sold or until you terminate the listing, unlimited changes to your listing, & an agent on Call from 9-5 to talk to you about Real Estate Market Conditions.. Unbeatable! We offer Value..

4) Efficiency is our Strength.. As soon as I get pictures of your home, within 24 hours, your home is active on MLS and your phone may start ringing.. I know full listing agents that drag their feet getting your home listing.. I’m operating with a sense of urgency here! Let’s get you home sold quickly..

5) I’m an Internet & Search Engine Optimization Guru… I’ve taken a number of websites; real estate, fitness, etc. and turned them into high traffic platforms in less than 1 month.. I can show you so many avenues of listing your home on the internet that you will get you more internet exposure than your competition.. I have a database of over 100 websites that I can advertise your home on.. Getting your home listing on many web portals, and putting it in front of as many people as possible, is what you want in a listing agent.. I’m your Guy!

5) I Can Market Your Home Internationally.. I have a database of over 75 international real estate domain websites that are specifically set up to sale Florida Real Estate to Overseas buyers.. I can get your home in front of the international crowd that’s buying our real estate due to our weak economy.. This is where the market’s at, and I’ve found a way to bring them to my listings (Your Home).. International Marketing of Real Estate is What I’m focused on Now!

6) If You Need Help with the a Real Estate Contract or Disclosures to Make Sure Your Selling Your Home Properly, We Can Do This..

Give me a call or drop me an email about how I can help you sell your home.. I have an endless menu of ways I can help you market your home and generate a buyer! I like our current market conditions, and I’m actually selling more real estate now than I was 3 1/2 years ago when it was easy.. I’m making things happen for you, and would love to help.. Let me know what I can do!

Justin Shirley..

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One of the biggest hurdles a Sarasota or Bradenton homeseller must leap over, is the avenue they must take to get their home sold.. It is common knowledge that a Realtor can be very expensive (@ 6-7%), but is there value in their service, AND what is that value worth? Well, as you all know, I am the biggest cheerleader for the Flat Fee MLS Listing Service.. I know this service gives the homeowner maximum exposure on their home, and also allows them to engage in a relationship with a Licensed Realtor that can advise them through the process, WHILE saving them money at the closing table.. However, many Flat Fee companies are not congruent with my policy of holding the sellers hand throughout the selling process.. They accept the upfront fee for listing the seller on the MLS, then the Realtor walks away and like a bull in a China shop, goes aggressively after the next Flat Fee listing. This is not how Shirley International Realty Inc. operates.. We stick around.. We are always on call and feel its our fiduciary duty to assist the seller in everything from, making price adjustments to give the MLS listing a new facia, to having open-ended conversations by phone on what the market is doing.. We are well-rounded real estate consultants that do not bail on our Flat Fee Sellers.. Below is a NAR (National Association of Realtors) statistical analysis that shows, a little Realtor assistance is a good thing.. Ya just have to get that assistance from the right place (Shirley International Realty Inc. is the PERFECT place)..

Did you know? In 2006 the average FSBO sold their home for $187,200 compared to $247,000 on an agent-assisted transaction.. (With our Flat Fee Listing Service we help coordinate pricing on your home and advertise it in the highest traffic real estate marketing venues, bringing more demand and garnering higher prices)

Most Difficult Tasks for FSBO Sellers:
Getting the right price . . . 11% (We are experts @ establishing market value for your home & will help you do this)
Understanding paperwork . . . 16% (We teach you the contracts/disclosures needed to sale your home, reducing the liability of a negligent transaction)
Preparing/fixing up home for sale . . . 18% (We will introduce you to the best Handymans’ & home inspectors in Sarasota/Bradenton)
Attracting potential buyers . . . 9% (Our Marketing for the Flat Fee of $199 is all the “Butter you need for the Bread” to attract multiple buyers)
Having enough time to devote to all aspects of the sale . . . 9% (Your life is busy.. Shirley International Realty Inc. can take this stress out of your day..)

 Top 5 Websites where REALTORS® place their listings:

 Realtor.com (82%)

 Local Realty Firm Website (76%)

 Local REALTOR® Association Website (50%)

 Franchiser’s Website (30%)

 Broker IDX/Broker Reciprocity Website (29%)

The above percentages represent 72% of the traffic generated to sell your home with a full service listing agent (Charging you 6-7%).. We will list your Home on all of these sites for the $199.. You need this exposure.. Its that simple..

There’s no other way to sell your home in any market, than the Flat Fee MLS Listing.. We are Southwest Florida’s #1 Provider of Flat Fee MLS Listings.. Our service is unparalleled, unbeatable, unmatched, the best, second to none, over-the-top, #1, distant from #2, uncomparable, the cookie not the crumb, & the finest while still getting refined.. We can help you.. Give me a call for anything.. 941-448-4872 (I even know the best babysitters if you need one.. :))

Justin

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“Selling Your Home is No Stress…. When You List on MLS”

We are Florida’s #1 Provider of Over-the-top Flat Fee MLS Services!

$199 Flat Fee MLS Listing.. Agents and Buyers will contact you directly..

-Listed on Your Correct Local MLS
(Example of Listing View PDF Sample)
-Listed on Realtor.com Enhanced and Upgraded
(Example of Listing View PDF Sample)
-Listing Posted to All High-Traffic Shirley Int. Realty Websites
-Professional photography
-Agent on Call 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
-Comparable Market Analysis
-Listing stays active Until Property Sells 
-Cancel anytime
-YOU set the Buyers Agent Commission!
-Limited Service Listing Agreement (Copy of Contract View PDF)
-Make As Many Changes As You Need too FREE OF CHARGE (Many Flat Fee Companies Charge Sellers Everytime They Want to Make A Change to Their Listing.. We Do Not.. Let’s Keep Your Listing the Way You Want it Throughout The Entire Duration of Your Flat Fee Listing Experience with Shirley International)
-Your Home Will Stay Active Until Your Property Sells! Many Flat Fee Listers Post a Expiration Date to your listing.. With Shirley International Realty Inc., we will keep your listing active until it sells, or until you asked to be removed!

We offer Professional Yard Signs, Lockboxes, Virtual Tours, Access to Our Mortgage Company, Real Estate Attorneys, Inspectors, & Contracts & Disclosures for a Complete Sale with No Agent Involved..

We Want to Help You Sell Your Home..

941-448-4872

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 After running my search of new listings and closed transactions for the Sarasota market I see a big improvement in sales volume. I have been swamped with buyer traffic myself, and it seems that the market as a whole is experiencing the same trend. The only trend that will keep our property values from appreciating at this point is, the effect of buyers swarming the market and sellers seeing an opportunity to list quickly in hopes of a quick sale. In short, the more statistics that show “buy volume” going up, the more sellers pour into the market and see an opportunity to sale. I feel this will continue for some time until we can get this distressed inventory off the market (Foreclosures, short sales, bank owned REO/Loss Mitigation, etc.). Many sellers have pulled their homes off the market temporarily because of the lost cause due to buyer reluctancy; however, with months like March, sellers are coming back to the market. Here’s a look at the closed transactions in Sarasota County, plus Lakewood Ranch and University Park (Manatee County areas but readily shopped by Sarasota buyers).. Again, my numbers reflect MLS data only and closed transactions only.

Single Family Homes - 233

Condominium - 137

Multi-Family (Duplexes, Triplexes, etc) - 1

Lots & Acreage - 5

As you can see, this number is up quite a bit from Feb. and January. We had great weather and nice flow of seasonal vacationers that turned into buyers. Sarasota is easy to fall in love with once you sink your toes into the sand of Siesta Key and soak in that Florida sun. I attribute this spike to tourism as well the Federal Government cutting rates making mortgage interest less harsh on the weak dollar & our slow economy. However, let’s take a look at how many homes entered the market.. This number reflects new listings posted to MLS during the month of March.

Single-Family Homes - 766 (Not a typo..)

Condominium - 428

Multi-Family - 8

Lots/Acreage - 59

As you can see buying is up, but so is the number of sellers looking to bail out of their financial ties to their properties. Positively, we’re seeing more buyers floating around our open houses. I expect a strong April, as the market will slow down a bit as we enter summer. But, let’s not discount the fact that Europeans and the international market take strong interest in our Florida real estate during the summer months.

 Justin

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