Defending Against the Bullies

As a kid, you learn quickly that if you do something differently than everyone else, you will likely be resented or ridiculed. As an adult, you realize that maybe some things never change.

Real estate companies that offer rebates to their customers have always been the black sheep, held in a bit of disdain. However, in a changing market, more are experimenting with the model to try to gain market share. This swing towards incentives and rebates has only served to widen the gap between those companies that HATE the concept, and those who love it. The debate is national, and heated.

I have read numerous articles over the last several months blasting companies that offer rebates as uncaring money-grabbers who offer no service in exchange for a commission,. Instead of the focus being on the benefit to the consumer, the focus is placed on the provider - they MUST be providing less service if they are willing to give a rebate.

I have to admit - there are some rebate companies that offer little to no service and virtually no experience. I suppose in that respect, the "bullies in the playground" who want us to stop offering rebates are correct in their argument.

But the argument falls apart in the face of the FULL SERVICE agency that just happens to provide a rebate. Consumers should not be cheated out of the knowledge that full service companies exist - with top notch customer service, comprehensive knowledge and deep experience.

The argument is often that "they must be bad agents, otherwise why would they work for partial commissions?" To the contrary, many full service rebate companies employ highly independent and successful agents who simply operate on lower overhead - no marble pillars at the office, no well paid call center operators. But less dedicated, less trained or less successful? Not at all.

As with ANY service industry, there are varying levels of service. It is up to the consumer to research and learn about their options. But the belief that all rebate companies provide shoddy service is as stereotypical as believing that all agents who carry a national name are excellent at what they do.

But I don't want to be a bully.

Regina Brassil, REALTOR, True Real Estate www.TrueSarasota.com

True Real Estate offer full, comprehensive service to our customers, at up to a 2.5% rebate. Want to talk to our customers to find out? Let us know.