Survey: Broker/agent culpability

I bought in the middle of '06. But I don't use a broker to tell me when to buy. That is simply not their job.

I am not a broker, but i'd like to chime in anyway.
I wouldn't expect a real estate broker to tell me if it's a good time to buy or sell. I would hope they can tell me if a place rates well against current comps, and know some price history. I understand that in a commission-based world, it's unreasonable to ask someone to act squarely against self-interest. It certainly stands out when it happens.

I put one client in a new construction building in 2007 after client flat-out rejected everything I advocated as a buy that was "old." After prices dropped, client (who still makes hefty $$$ and can still get financing) tried to get out of contract rather than close (despite my saying that the purchase still made sense as a "forever" home) and stands to lose a six-figure security deposit.

I had other clients, an engaged couple, who proudly showed me their dream home in 2007 but worried it was overpriced. We sat down, decided what our top price was, and walked away after seller rejected that very reasonable number. They thought I did a fantastic job keeping them from overspending, subsequently relo-d and bought a California home. Getting married this spring. Still send me referrals.

So I guess in the eyes of my clients I'm 1 for 2.

ali r.
DG Neary Realty