Belt Auction

Real Estate Companies (Century 21, Remax, Coldwell Banker, etc) Reputations..?

I just passed my CA R.E. test, and Ive been to a couple of interveiws with some of these companies, and a few local companies that specialize in homes in my city.... I am really leaning towards Coldwell but I want to know what companies have you heard of? In your opinion if you HAD to pick one of these to buy a home, which would you choose? Is Coldwell well known?

Public Comments

1. Congratulations on passing your test. I was just talking about this subject with my real estate agent last week. He suggested that anyone should list with the agency that has the most listings in a particular area. For example, where we are looking to buy for my son, Howard Hanna is the most popular company. However, where I live presently, I would probably list with Northwood. I have heard of all of the companies that you have listed, and know people that have had good experiences with them. They all have good reputations. Good luck! PS Coldwell is very well known.
2. Most offices are independently owned. The reputation is largely due to the management of the broker and the behavior of the agents. Your state Board will have information on any complaints filed against any agents or brokers. Ultimately you will probably be an independent contractor, in effect self employed. I am not part of a franchise. I have created my own niche in investment property that allows me to operate independently. As such I have more work that I can do. For some reason most newly licensed agents gravitate toward large franchise firms. The only problem there is you will be a little fish in a very big pond. In my case I actually hand leads to my agents and ask them to work them. Larger firms are very competitive and quite cut-throat. You will have to get all of your own leads. Talk to some of the smaller independent firms and see what they will offer you.
3. I thought this was a question about usage....I was about to advise to stay clear, all but ReMax hire greenies and no one makes money using a greenine. I would not even think about selling or buying thru any of the above.