Tampa, FL - Lately, I've heard several complaints about Realtors from both buyers and sellers. The one I have heard the most is: "I did all the work and the Realtor got the commission!"  This comment was made recently by someone who purchased a South Tampa home about 2 years ago and by a seller who was more specific.  She mentioned that she took all the pictures, she showed the property, and it was she who made pricing and other determinations about the property - and this happened 3 times with 3 different agents.

Given these sorts of reports, it's no wonder why 5 to 10 percent of agents always seem to do 80 to 90 percent of the business in any given area of the country.

To all brokers and agents who fall into the category that those above complained about, please take a long hard look at the way you conduct business.  If you cannot see your way to make some changes, I am sure that I'm not alone in asking you to please find another career.

And, to all buyers and sellers out there... Please know that good agents and brokers do exist.  However, you must NOT simply use someone because your neighbor said "I know someone - they're my friend and they'll take care of you."  You must ask questions.  You must be satisfied with the answers.

Anyone can put a listing in the MLS, put up a sign, and wait.  There are many of those sorts of Realtors here in South Tampa and may folks might be surprised to learn that they are some of the more successful agents working in the area.  They've just been here for a long time and know many people.  But that does not assure that they know how to market... How to sell... How to properly do the job.  To be fair, there also are many very good, qualified, and talented agents and brokers working here in South Tampa. 

Unfortunately, the buyer or seller must so some legwork and research to discern between the good and the bad.  There is no other way.  If you don't take the time to investigate... to ask questions... to look at web sites... don't be surprised if the level of service you get isn't what you would want or expect.  There is an 80 or 90 percent chance that this will be the case.  Please visit www.PrettyDogRealty.com for more information about the services we provide.