MySecretAgent.com Blog

How Much Can You Save

2012-01-30T13:24:00.000-08:00

How much can you save selling your own home? Take control of the selling process and save thousands! On average a homeowner can save $12,000 in listing commissions. Who wouldn't want to save that amount?! Calculate your savings to see how much you can save selling your home.

The listing agent will listyou on the MLS, place a yard sign in your front yard, host 1-2 open houses andassist in paperwork. Most sellers are capable and feel comfortable doing thison their own. Is that work worth 6%? Weat MySecretAgent don’t think so! Any homeowner selling on their own can do this with the help of listingon the MLS with MySecretAgent.

Over a Million Saved

2012-01-27T21:35:00.000-08:00

MySecretAgent is proud to announce that we have helped homeowners save over One Million dollars in commissions in just 2.5 years! Our goal has always been to focus on the seller- giving them the best chances in selling effectively without having to pay 6% in commissions.

MySecretAgent allows all FSBO homeowners to be in control oftheir listing 24 hours a day via online account. You can change the price,photos, description, etc any time. The seller handles showing appointments(besides who knows a home better than the seller), controls access to theproperty and answers questions about the property. Is that work worth 6%? We atMySecretAgent don’t think so! Anyhomeowner selling on their own can do this with the help of listing on the MLSwith MySecretAgent.

Tips on Getting the Best Result Selling by Owner

2012-01-20T10:33:00.000-08:00

Selling a home by owner, FSBO, may seem like a lot of work but in reality it's not. An owner knows more information about a home then any agent would anyway. A traditional listing agent will list you on the MLS, place a yardsign in your front yard, host 1-2 open houses and assist in paperwork. Mostsellers are capable and feel comfortable doing this on their own. State lawsrequire a licensed agent to list a property on the MLS therefore givingtraditional agents the upper hand. When analyzing the role of atraditional agent it is hard to justify paying thousands in commissions whenyou can get the same result listing with MySecretAgent, a top discount broker.

Now, back to the point: Below are some tips on how to get the best result selling your home by owner.

Exposure: If you are selling your home by owner, FSBO, list with the a Flat Fee MLS company that will get you Internet exposure. Listing with MySecretAgentwill give all sellers local and National Internet exposure. All listings willbe displayed on Realtor.com and more.

Listing Price: Be realistic on the selling price. It's tough being the seller in a buyer's market. But you can improve your odds with the right research. Call or email MySecretAgent for a FREE CMA.

Showings: Make sure your home shows well and has a great first impression. Remove the clutter, all rooms have a purpose, etc. Here is an extensive checklist to insure your home is ready to be on the market.

Preliminary Paperwork: You can set up a preliminary escrow account when you are ready to place your home on the market. This will make the process easier when it is time to negotiate the purchase of your home with the buyers.

Should you have any more questions on Selling Your Home by Owner, please call or email us.

Outstanding Reputation

2012-01-16T12:20:00.000-08:00

MySecretAgent.com strives to serve clients through superiorknowledge, service and support. We are dedicated to offer professional services and make all sellers feel comfortable with the process of listing their home. Here are a few testimonials from past sellers.

Whether you are already a client, or you are ahomeowner who is interested in our services, we are here to answer anyquestions via phone or Email.

Tips to Negotiate Buying a Home

2012-01-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

Negotiating to buy a home may seem daunting but with our checklist you may even save some money negotiating yourself. First and for most, stay focused during the process and keep your eyes on the goal; Purchasing your home!

Keep Your Emotions to Yourself: Not letting your emotions take over buying your home. Remind yourself that buying a home is a "business transaction". If you go into it with this mentality then a seller may think you have other options and may be more inclined to sell to your terms.

Ask Questions: Asking questions about the sellers' financial position may let you know how motivated they are to sell. If they are in foreclosure or short sale this will let you know that they are motivated. Remember, if this is the case the bank may have the final word. Also, ask if the buyers already purchased another home. If they did, they may be motivated as they probably don't want to carry two mortgages.

Get Prequalified: Before you start to look or place offers on homes get prequalified. Getting prequalified shows sellers that you are serious about buying a home.

Check Comparable Properties: Do your market research to reflect your offer based on what has sold in the last three to six months in the neighborhood. You will most liekly find that homes that are listed sell sell for lower than the active listings.

Avoid Contingencies: Keep your offer free of complicated contingencies, such as making the purchase conditional on the sale of your current home. Do keep contingencies for mortgage approval, home inspection, and environmental checks typical in your area, like radon.

Please contact MySecretAgent should you have any further questions on how to list your home or how to contatact a seller.

What to Expect After Listing

2012-01-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

The listing process is easy with MySecretAgent. What to expect after listing is just as easy and efficient.

Paperwork: Your paperwork is emailed to you automatically after listing online. Once you send back signed documents we will list you on the MLS by the same day or next business day. We have a quick turnaround time to ensure you getting listed on the MLS as soon as possible.

Internet Exposure: After listing on the MLS your listing will propagate to most websites within 15-30 minutes.

Post: If you order an Extended or Full Package a sign will be installed within two days (usually the next day) of listing on the MLS.

Sign: Your costum sign is sent to you via UPS within two days of listing. The sign includes your phone number and MLS number printed directly on it!

Flyers: Our Full Package includes 50 perfissionally printed flyers. You have four templates to choose from. A PDF of the flyer is sent out the same day or next business day for your approval. Once you approve the flyer the are printed and sent out to you via UPS. The flyers are sent out in the same package as the sign.

Should you have any questions on how the listing process works with MySecretAgent or what to expect after listing please give us a call or email us.

5 Tips in Getting Your Home Sold 2012

2012-01-05T12:54:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year when owners start thinking of selling their homes. If selling your home is one of your 2012 resolutions here are a few tips to set your self up for success.

1. Study the market: You want to know the homes that are comparable to yours and be in the same price range. Most homes that are successful in selling are priced right from the get go! You want to know what makes your home stand out from your competition as well. Do some homework and study the market- it will pay off in the end. If you need some assistance in what is on the market and what sold in your neighborhood call or email MySecretAgent.com for a FREE comparative market analysis (CMA).

2. Crub Appeal: You only have one time to make a great first impression. Make sure your home is appealing from the curb. A home with curb appeal will attract buyers to take a look inside.

3. Prep your home: To make your home appear larger remove all clutter. When buyers walk through the front of your home they want to see clean spacious area that affords them plenty of living space. Depersonalize, remove family photos; a buyer may get distracted looking at family photos or knickknacks preventing them looking at your beautiful home.

4. Paperwork: Gather your paperwork now for a smooth transaction when your home does sell.

Disclosure Form: This form is emailed to you automatically when you list with MySecretAgent. This includes any documentation of anything that might impact a buyer’s decision about your home, whether it be inspection reports, repair receipts or estimates for repairs you haven’t actually had done yet.
Financials Documents: Before the property’s title can transfer to another owner, the escrow or title company will need your mortgage statements to order payoff demands from any mortgage holder who has to get paid before that can happen.
Preliminary Title: Open a preliminary title at an escrow company of your choice. This will get the ball rolling for when you do get a mutually accepted offer.

5. Marketing: By now you have priced your home right, your home is appealing from the curb, the inside is de-cluttered and your paperwork is gathered. The last step is making sure to choose photos that highlight your home in the best way. Because you are saving money listing with MySecretAgent I would recommend sellers getting professional photos. Buyers are looking at many homes a day. You want your listing to stand out from the rest.

Steps to a Stress Free Closing

2012-01-03T10:32:00.000-08:00

By doing a little homework before it's time to sign paperwork in escrow you will feel confidant during the process of closing you home. Below are 6 simple steps to a stress free closing for all buyers.

Set a Closing Date: Make sure to choose a closing date that fits with the end of you lease or the sale of your current home. Choosing a date at the end of the month will save you money in interest as it is prorated.
Funds: If you are required to bring funds to the closing make sure to transfer it to a liquid bank account to avoid last- minute problems.
Title Insurance: Title insurance protects the policyholder against trouble with a home’s title. You should also consider purchasing what’s called an owner’s title policy, which protects you from fraudulent claims against your ownership and errors in earlier sales.
Homeowners Insurance: Make sure to line up homeowners insurance prior to closing on your home. Get quotes and compare policies. Depending on the size, area, etc annual policies should between $500- $1000.
Walk Through: Before closing on your home make sure to walk through to ensure all repairs you requested have been done. If any times have not been met to your standards make sure to identify this during the walk through. In some states you may delay closing until it is done.
Paperwork: Review your good faith estimate and HUD-1 estimate sheet. Your lender must provide a good-faith estimate of your closing fees. Some of those fees can’t change, and others can rise by 10%. Before you go to the closing, read your good-faith estimate, compare it with your HUD-1 settlement statement, and question any fees that increased.

What is a Flat Fee Listing

2011-12-16T10:03:00.000-08:00

A Flat Fee MLS listing is the modern way to sell your home.Listing with MySecretAgent, a top flat fee brokerage, gives sellers theadvantage of saving thousands in commissions. Flat Fee Listing Brokerage refers to the practice of alicensed real estate agent placing pertinent information about a property forsale on the MLS. Every staterequires a licensed agent to list a home on the MLS therefore givingtraditional listing agents the upper hand. A flat fee brokerage will get youlisted on the MLS without paying listing commission fees, saving on average of$12,000!

Not having to pay a listing commission can give a FSBOseller negotiation room in the listing price. This will create more traffic andleads in selling a home because it allows a seller to price better than theircompetition. In today’s market there are many advantages to listing with a flatfee brokerage.

MySecretAgent, a Flat fee listing brokerage, will list ahome the MLS giving sellers Internet exposure to local and national websites. Sellers have the option ofreceiving listing tools, like with a traditional agent, such as a keybox, CMA,directional signs etc. Flat feelisting allows sellers to be in control of their listing. Besides, who knows ahome better than the seller?

With a flat fee listing brokerage the seller is the primarycontact to all real estate agents and potential buyers. Sellers can make appointments to showthere home based on their schedule and answer any question about theirhome. Since owners know their homebetter than anyone else they will be able to answer questions, etc. In theresult of an offer, the seller will negotiate with the buyer and/or the buyer’sreal estate agent. Not to worry,negations during this process seem scarier than it real is. When a seller doesreceive an offer please read our “What to do When I Receive An Offer” article,this will help organize the seller.

Flat Fee Brokerage VS Traditional Listing Agent

2011-12-14T07:07:00.000-08:00

Flat Fee Brokerage:

Listing your home with a flat fee brokerage, also known, asa discount brokerage is not much different than listing with a traditionalagent. Flat fee brokers will listyour home on the MLS giving you the same internet exposure as a traditionalagent. Most flat fee brokerages provide the same marketing tools as atraditional agent, all for a one time flat fee. Be cautious when comparing flatfee services, some of their less expansive packages will not include a listingon the local MLS, only on their website. All of MySecretAgent’s listingpackages include a listing on the same MLS as traditional agents , giving youthe same internet exposure. A traditional agent will do the same and not muchmore for 6%! Using a flat feelisting broker the “for sale by owner” is in control of their listing 100% ofthe time. MySecretAgent allows all FSBO sellers to be in control of theirlisting 24 hours a day via an online account. They can change the price, photos,description, etc. at any time, handle showings by appointments, control access and answer questions about the property.Who knows a home better than the owner? Is this work worth 6%? We atMySecretAgent don’t think so! Anyhomeowner selling their own home can handle this with the help of listing onthe MLS with MySecretAgent.com.

Traditional Listing Agent:

How many of you had agents promise they can sell your homebetter than the next? When they did get your listing you were not getting the resultthey promised. Yes, they may have a different approach to marketing withintheir network, but the main tool they use is the MLS. When a traditional agent,as well as a discount brokerage gains your listing they place it on the MLS.The MLS plays a huge role in both the flat free broker as well as thetraditional agent’s network and marketing.

A traditional agent’s main goal is to list your home on theMLS to expose your home to other agents and buyers, leading them to show yourhome and eventually buy it. If another agent brings a buyer, the 6% commissionis split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. For example, on a $200,000property $12,000 is paid to bothagents involved (6% commission), even if a buyer contacts you directly.

The listing agent will list your home on the MLS, place ayard sign in your front yard, host 1-2 open houses, and assist in the paperwork. Most sellers are capable and feel comfortable doing this on theirown. State laws require a licensed agent to list a property on the MLS,therefore giving traditional agents the upper hand. When analyzing therole of a traditional agent it is hard to justify paying thousands in commissions when you can get the same result listing with a flat fee brokersuch as MySecretAgent, a top discount broker.

MySecretAgent:

MySecretAgent.com, a top discount real estate brokerage,allows savvy home owners to sell their home without paying the 3% listingcommission fee, maximizing local and national internet exposure through the MLS(State Accredited Multiple Listing Service), and stay in control of the homeselling process. MySecretAgent.com provides the tools and customer service toFSBO sellers (For Sale By Owner) that will effectively sell a home and maximizethe owner’s equity.

Check out the comparison chart showing the differences and similaritiesof a flat fee brokerage versus a traditional agent with one BIG difference: theamount you save with a flat fee broker is significant!

Tips on Listing your Home By Owner

2011-12-12T11:02:00.000-08:00

Selling your home on your own may seem daunting but with the right guidance you will be able to do it better than an agent! Below are a few tips on listing your home with MySecretAgent, a top flat fee brokerage.

Exterior- Make sure your home has curb appeal. You only have one time to make a great first impression. Make sure the leaves are raked and gutters are clean.
Interior- Stage each room to show off its features. De-clutter all rooms to make them appear larger. Here are more tips on staging rooms.
Price- Pricing your home right is key. If your home is priced right it will sell. To deterime the right price of your home call MySecretAgent for a free CMA (Comparative Market Analysis).
List- Once you made sure your home is ready to sell it is time to list with MySecretAgent. You can list in one easy step online. We offer 24 hour access to a secure online account thatallows traditional home sellers and FSBO sellers to be in control of theirlisting. Our sellers may manage the price, photos, description, etc to theirlisting through our innovative website.
MLS- One your home is listed on the MLS MySecretAgent will email your your MLS#. Being listed on the MLS will give you local and national Internet exposure allowing buyers and agents access to your listing.

Should you have any questions on listing with MySecretAgent please email or call us.

Top 10 Reasons to List with MySecretAgent

2011-12-08T11:04:00.001-08:00

Below is what sets usapart from other Real Estate Companies, Flat Fee Brokers, and For Sale By OwnerSites

#1 - Commission: My Secret Agent is a Flat Fee MLSReal Estate Brokerage and does not collect the customary 3% listing commission.Pay a ONE TIME flat fee to get your home on the MLS for local and national Internetexposure to all buyers and agents. Our discount MLS listing service and ourdiscount real estate service will save homeowners thousands in real estatecommissions.

#2 - Customer Service: We answer our phones andemails promptly, no phone maze! Our professional, licensed staff is ready toanswer any real estate questions to make selling your own home easy. We have worked with Traditional home sellers and For Sale by Owner sellers (FSBO) formany years. We have a great reputation of being helpful and informative. Pleasecall with any questions regarding our discount real estate service. Ourcustomer service hours are Monday-Friday 9am-7pm.

#3 - Internet Exposure: Our Internet Exposure isnot limited by price. Listing with MySecretAgent.com, a leading Flat Fee MLS RealEstate Brokerage, will give all sellers Local and National Internet exposure byutilizing the MLS and other major Real Estate sites. Don’t settle with otherFSBO listing sites or flat fee brokerages that limit the exposure based onprice. All our listings will be displayed on your local MLS, Realtor.com, and many more…

#4 - 24 Hour Listing Access: We offer 24 houraccess to a secure online account that allows traditional home sellers and FSBOsellers to be in control of their listing. Our sellers may manage the price,photos, description, etc to their listing through our innovative website.

#5 - List Online: Home sellers can choose from ourFlat Fee MLS service packages from above and list their home online in one easy step. Once the online listingis completed the documents are emailed instantly. Please see How To List My Home and How it Works for more information.

#6 - Turn-around Time: My Secret Agent will listyour house on MLS within hours of receiving your signed documents. All newlistings and changes take a few hours to propagate to all local and nationalreal estate websites.

#7 - CMA (Comparative Market Analysis): Upon request, My Secret Agent will provide sellers afree CMA report. We give sellers all the tools to effectively price & selltheir home. Other flat fee brokerages, FSBO MLS listing and FSBO listing sites,do not offer professional market analysis. Majority of for sale by ownerlisting sites do not offer a CMA, thus making it difficult for sellers to effectivelyprice their home for the best result.

#8 - Post & Sign: My Secret Agent offers morethan just a listing on the MLS. With our Extended and Full Packages we providea custom sign and post. Our CUSTOM sign has the owner’s phone number and MLS# printed on directly! NOTwith a marker! This provides consumer confidence that your home is listedprofessionally.

#9 - Tools: We offer the same tools that any traditionalagent would in selling a home: Electronic MLS Key Boxes, All Documents,Signage, Flyers, CMA, Assistance from licensed MLS agents, and much more… Many for sale by owner listing sites donot provide these tools.

#10 - Knowledgeable Staff: My Secret Agent strivesto serve For Sale by Owner and Traditional home sellers through knowledge,service, marketing and support. We look over all documents prior to listingyour home on the MLS to ensure accuracy and the best outcome.

Tips on Holding a "For Sale By Owner" Open House

2011-12-05T09:22:00.001-08:00

Open houses can be overwhelming when hosting them yourself. Traditionally, an agent will host them and report back to the seller with feedback. When holding a "For Sale By Owner" open house you are doing the work the agent would normally do. Besides, who knows a home better then you anyway? With these easy steps you can host your own open house and hopefully find a buyer.

Advertise- Open Houses are typically on Saturday and/or Sundays from 1-4PM. Advertise your open house on various websites such as Craigslist, Zillow and MLS. Another great avenue is making fliers stating an open house and placing them in a flier box outside your home. For your convenience, we have open house signs and directional signs available.
Competition- By now, you should know what homes are on the market and what your competition is. As a seller, you should know how your home is better that the rest. For example, price, size, upgrades, etc. You should this information to your advantage to up sell your home. Selling your home with a discounted real estate brokerage, such as MySecretAgent, you are saving 3% and possibly more (if the buyer is not using an agent) so you have more room to negotiate the selling price. Use this as a leverage against your competition.
Flier- It is important that potential buyers and buyer's agent leave with a flier in there hand. Leaving with a flier will remind them of your home and the features it has. This will keep the information fresh in the head.
Stage- Stage your home to show off the features. For some simple steps please refer to our Home Selling Tips.
Follow Up- Finally, ask for feedback. Ask what each buyer thought of your home and would they consider buying it. Have a feedback form available for buyers to fill it out. This way you will get direct, honest feedback.

Sample of MySecretAgent's FeedBack Form

Tips on Marketing Your Home

2011-12-02T09:10:00.001-08:00

MySecretAgent is dedicated to provide information to help sell their home. Below you will find tips when listing your home. Read more for more information.

No Photos: Typically a seller should use at least 8-10 photos to showcase the property in the best possible way. If a listing has no, or to few, photos it may discourage a buyer to look any further. Remember- you only have one time to make a great first impression. Use photos that will highlight your property. The right advertising will help your home sell faster.

Lack of Transaction Details: It is a good idea to identify the third party that is involved in the negotiation process.

Hyberbole: Claiming your property as "the best on the street" may be a little to outlandish of a statement and turn away buyers. Try to use description that will flatter your property without using such an overstated description.

Should you have any questions on how to price, market or list your home please contact our knowledgeable staff.

Testimonials

2011-11-29T08:40:00.001-08:00

MySecretAgent strives to serve our clients through superiorknowledge, service and support. Our testimonials prove it! Should you have any questions listing your home please do not hestitae to call us at 1-800-915-9174 or email us.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T10:09:00.001-08:00

From everyone at MySecretAgent, we hope everyone has a safe and filling Thanksgiving. This time of year is a great time to give back. Here is a list of food banks in Seattle to help out the less fortunate.

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more…

It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

Author - Melody Beattie

Time to Winterize Your Home

2011-11-21T13:05:00.001-08:00

Yes, it is that time of year already! Time to winterize your home for the winter season. Below are 10 simple steps in making sure your home is ready for the winter months. Hope these tips help you to stay warm. Happy Holidays from everyone at MySecretAgent!

Clean Out Gutters- Clogged drains can form ice dams which water backs up, freezes and causes water to seep into the house. Making sure the gutters are cleaned out will help prevent this from happening.
Block Leaks- One of the best ways to winterize your home is to block obvious leaks around your house, both inside and out.
Insulation- Add insulation to the existing insulation in the attic. This is an inexpensive project that you can do and reap the benefits in your heating bill!
Check the Furnace- Turn your furnace on, to make sure it's even working, before it is to late.
Check Your Ducts- Ducts aren't always easy to see, but you can often find them exposed in the attic, the basement and crawlspaces. Repair places where pipes are pinched, which impedes flow of heated air to the house, and fix gaps with a metal-back.
Windows- It is the time to take down the window screens and put up storm windows, which provide an extra layer of protection and warmth for the home.
Chimney- Spring is the time to think about your chimney. That said, don't put off your chimney needs before using your fireplace. a chimney should at least be inspected before use each year
Reverse the Fan- Reversing its direction from the summer operation, the fan will push warm air downward and force it to recirculate, keeping you more comfortable.
Wrap the Pipes- Before freezing nights hit, make sure that the water to your hose bibs is shut off inside your house. Wrap them with pre-molded foam rubber sleeves or fiberglass insulation, available at hardware stores.
Finally, check those alarms- This is a great time to check the all alarms and change the batteries. Also, invest in a carbon-monoxide detector; every home should have at least one.

What Is A Flat Fee Brokerage

2011-11-16T10:27:00.001-08:00

A Flat Fee listing is the modern way to sell your home.Listing with MySecretAgent, a flat fee brokerage, gives sellers the advantageof saving thousands in commissions. Flat Fee Listing Brokerage refers to the practice of a licensed realestate agent placing pertinent information about a property for sale on theMLS. Every state requires alicensed agent to list a home on the MLS therefore giving traditional agentsthe upper hand. A flat fee brokerage will get you listed on the MLS withoutpaying listing commission fees, saving on average of $12,000!

Not having to pay a listing commission can give a sellernegotiation room in the listing price. This will create more traffic and leadsin selling a home because it allows a seller to price better than theircompetition. In today’s market there are many advantages to listing with a flatfee brokerage.

Officially Open in Oregon

2011-11-16T09:19:00.001-08:00

MySecretAgent is pleased to announce that we are offering our services in Oregon. Homeowners in Oregon can take advantage of selling there home themselves and save thousands. We will list you on the local RMLS, the same MLS traditional agents use. The listing process is done online in one easy step. Call us for a FREE market anaysis today!

Updated Custom SIgn

2011-11-14T09:29:00.001-08:00

MySecretAgent strives to give our clients the best possible product. A new trend is emerging and we are proud to announce that our custom signs now display a QR code to easily direct buyers directly to the seller. A QR code is a type of two dimensional barcode a smart-phone can scan that will directly lead someone to a particular webpage. Our QR code leads buyers to our Feature Page.

Why List Your Home During the Holidays

2011-11-11T10:54:00.000-08:00

There are MANY benefits to listing your home during the Holidays.

The first and most important reason is less competition. Most people delay listing their property after the holiday season thus facing a much larger competition. Additionally, because there are fewer alternatives available to a buyer you are more likely to sell for a better price.

Serious buyers are looking. Buyers looking for homes in December often have an imperative reason behind their search and are more likely to purchase a home than those looking during the summer months.

Your home is ready to show. Homes often look the best during the holidays because it is already clean and decorated for holiday entertaining. As homeowners prepare for holiday parties and visiting friends and family it should be easier to get your home ready for a showing.

Quick closings. Buyers are more likely to close on a home before the New Year, as they want to claim the mortgage deduction on their tax return. As a homeowner you can use this fact to press a buyer into a quicker deal.

For more information please visit MySecretAgent.com

What Sets MySecretAgent Apart

2011-11-10T11:18:00.000-08:00

MySecretAgent allows savvy homeowners to sell there home without paying a listing commission fee. We provide the tools to effectively sell your home and maximize your profit. See what sets MySecretAgent apart from other flat fee brokerages:

24 Hour Access: We allow a homeowner to be in control of their listing 24 hours a day. You can change the price, photos, description, etc any time. With our Full Package all changes are free.

List Online: We make it easy to list in ONE easy step. Once list you list online all documents are emailed to you automatically. Please look over our “ How To List My Home” article for more info on listing online.

Turn- around Time: MySecretAgent will list you by the next business day we receive signed documents.

Customer Service: We answer our phone calls! Our staff is available to answer any questions you should have. We have a great reputation in being helpful and informative. Our business hours are Monday- Friday 9am-7pm.

Knowledgeable Staff: MySecretAgent strives to serve our clients through superior knowledge, service and support. We look over all documents prior to listings on the MLS to ensure the best chances in selling your home with us.

Internet Exposure: Listing with MySecretAgent will give all sellers local and National Internet exposure. All listings will be displayed on Realtor.com and more.

Post & Sign: MySecretAgent does more than list you on the MLS. With our Extended and Full Packages we offer a custom sign and post. The post is installed by the next business day of receiving signed documents. Our CUSTOM sign has your phone number and MLS# printed directly on it!

Commission: MySecretAgent does not collect commission even if the buyer comes to us first. We ALWAYS send sellers any leads without any hesitation.

Leads: If a buyer and/or agent come to MySecretAgent first we ALWAYS send the seller the leads. We feature ALL listings on our website with the sellers email and phone number.

CMA: Upon request, MySecretAgent will send sellers a free report on the recent activity in their neighborhood. We give sellers all the tools to effectively sell their home.

Tools: We offer the same tools any traditional agent would offer in selling a home. You many choose as many tools you feel will help sell your home.

MLS: Your property will be listed on the local MLS allowing access to all licensed agents. The property will propagate to local and national websites for extra Internet exposure.

Documents: Upon request, MySecretAgent offers a purchase and sales contract in case the buyer does not have one.

Effective: MySecretAgent makes listing your home as effective as possible- from the 24 hour access to your account, listing tools and knowledgeable staff. We are dedicated to offer professional services to help you sell your home, but most importantly maximize your profit.

We at MySecretAgent.com strive to serve our clients through superior knowledge, service and support. Whether you are already a client, or you are a homeowner who is interested in our services, we are here to answer any questions via phone or Email.

Compare Real Estate Services

2011-07-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

Our Full $495 Package offers you the same services, that a full commission agent would offer for the fraction of the cost! Compare our package to see what is best for you.

Discover why thousands of sellers are choosing flat fee Multiple Listing Service. Even if you decide to use ALL the additional listing tools MySecretAgent offers, your total cost to list your home will be less then $1200 including the $495 listing fee and NOT the traditional 6%!

Top 10 Project Paybacks

2011-06-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Project Paybacks

Once again, exterior remodeling projects lead the way for recovery on dollars spent in this year’s Cost vs. Value survey. When you compare the national averages, replacement projects that boost curb appeal—siding, windows, and decks—give you the greatest chance of recouping your money. Inside, only kitchen remodels can compare, at least on a national level.

1. Upscale fiber cement siding (86.7%)

2. Midrange wood deck (81.8%)

3. Midrange vinyl siding (80.7%)

4. Upscale foam-backed vinyl (80.4%)

5. Midrange minor kitchen remodel (79.5%)

6. Upscale vinyl window replacement (79.2%)

7. Midrange wood window replacement (77.7%)

8. Midrange vinyl window replacement (77.2%)

9. Upscale wood window replacement (76.5%

10. Midrange major kitchen remodel (76.0%)

Can I Successfully Sell My Home Using MySecretAgent?

2011-06-23T11:44:00.000-07:00

YES, you can successfully sell your home with MySecretAgent. When listing with MySecretAgent a lot of the success has to do with the seller. MySecretAgent provides the tools to sell your home effectively but it is up to the seller on taking the tools to effectively sell their home.

Some tips on successfully selling your home are:

Pricing Your Home: The first and most important tip is pricing your home right the first time. If you price your home right for the condition and location it is in you will have better chances in selling your home faster.

Photos: You only have one time to make a great first impression. This is evident in your listing photos. Make sure the photos showcase your home in the best possible way.

Sellers have a HUGE advantage listing with MySecretAgent as they have more room to negotiate because they are NOT responsible for a listing commission!

Compare Real Estate Services

2011-01-24T14:18:00.000-08:00

Our Full Package offers you the same services that a full commission agent would offer for the fraction of the price!

Discover why thousands of sellers are choosing flat fee Multiple Listing Service- MLS- exposure, but still retain the right to sell their home on their own. Even if you decide to use all the additional listing tools, your total cost to list your home will be less than using a traditional agent.

Tax credits Boost King County Home Sales

2010-05-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

Home sales went up 64% in King County from year ago thanks to the tax credit. Now that the tax credit is no longer available many argue that it gave the housing market a lasting impact. Even without the tax credit, buyers can take advantage of low interest rates and lower prices.

MySecretAgent sellers have personally seen more activity in successfully selling there homes. Not only did our sellers sell there homes they also saved money in the process by NOT paying a listing commission!

At MySecretAgent, we are dedicated to offer our professional services to effectively help you sell your home, but most importantly maximize your profit.

Sign Regulations

2009-11-17T15:06:00.000-08:00

Please check the Regulations for your specific city for Residential Real Estate Signs. Once your home is off the market you must remove these signs. Some cities will strictly enforce these rules.

Let buyers and neighbors instantly know your home is for sale

The yard sign is the most important selling tool, we include it with our Full $495 Package and the Extended $295 Package, it is optional with the Basic $95 . Please see our Listing Tools.

The yard sign we offer is a custom sign with YOUR PHONE NUMBER plus the MLS NUMBER, buyers and agents can contact you directly.

All leads and inquiries about your listing from buyers and agents are forwarded exclusively to you

Wherever possible we will include your contact information directly with your property information on every online ad, including on our site, check out our Featured Listings.

However some websites will not permit seller's name and contact information to be displayed. You will receive an email or a phone call from us to contact the buyer or the buyer's agent directly.

First Time Homebuyer $8000 Tax Credit Extended Until April 30, 2010

2009-11-09T11:24:00.000-08:00

This $8000 tax credit will extend to First Time Home Buyers who purchase a home until April 30, 2010. To be able to qualify for this tax credit one must purchase a home by April 30, 2010. The purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior.

If you would like more information please visit MySecretAgent and we will be happy to answer any questions.

FHA Loans

2009-11-02T13:13:00.000-08:00

In the past many sellers didn't want to accept FHA loans because of the guidelines. Presently as a seller it would be a beneficial to accept this loan because many buyers are qualifying for an FHA loan and this would give you a better chance of selling your home.

FHA Loan Guidlines

Down Payment	Minimum 3.5%
Closing Costs	Low, regulated by HUD
Post-bankruptcy Qualifying?	Can qualify after 2 years
Post-foreclosure Qualifying?	Can qualify after 3 years
Private Mortgage Insurance	Low cost

mortgageloanplace.com

Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

2009-10-28T16:33:00.000-07:00

What happens after I order?
See our Seller’s Checklist and our Terms and Condition s for more detailed information.

What is the NWMLS?
The NWMLS – Northwest Multiple Listing Service – is a broker owned fee based service to licensed members in the State of Washington to input listings for sellers and search listings for buyers. The NWMLS is the primary tool agents use to find a property when they have a buyer, it is used by all agents whether it is a traditional listing or a Flat Fee listing. The buyer's office commission amount offered is required by the NWMLS along with the detailed information about the home including pictures. Your advantage is the increased exposure to buyers. Our average flat fee customers save over $10,000. In recent years the NWMLS has made their data available to many local and national real estate internet sites. By listing your property on the NWMLS you will gain this increased exposure which is accessible to everyone who is in the market to buy a home.

What telephone number will people call for a showing?
You will be contacted directly by all buyers and agents with buyers who would be interested in seeing your home. The NWMLS requires to show our office information, but agents will be instructed to call you before they show your property. If agents or buyers contact us, they will be referred to you. According to NWMLS public websites are not permitted to show the owner’s name or phone number. This NWMLS rule applies to all companies that are members of the NWMLS.

Will my listing look the same as other listings?
YES. Your listing will be identical to the listings of competing real estate companies. It will show all photos and all listing information, including the commission offered to an agent who successfully sells the home, and instructions for showing the home.

Are there any additional fees?
NO. All of the fees we charge are listed on our web site. For the Listing Tools the shipping costs are included and there are no additional or hidden fees. We do not charge any other fees for the sale of your home. WA sales tax applies where applicable.

How do I get started with your Flat Fee Listing program?
Our services are simple, please fill out our online form, go to List My Home , it will take about 20-30 minutes. Select the additional Listing Tools, than submit your order with payment. If you have questions or need help filling out these forms, please call our office. Once the documents and your photographs are submitted to us, your property will be listed in the MLS the same day if received by 1:00 P.M. If we receive your documents and photographs after 1:00 P.M. or on the weekend, your property will be posted the next business day. All other websites, including REALTOR.com® will post your listing within 4-5 business days. Changes to an MLS listing are handled in the same fashion. Please refer to the Seller’s Checklist for more instructions. Once all the paperwork is signed and payment is received, we upload your property information into the NWMLS. You will receive a confirmation email once your property has been posted on the NWMLS.

For more answers to frequently asked questions visit MySecretAgent.com

Your satisfaction is our #1 priority!
If you have any other questions about our services, please contact us.

We are here to help!

We are dedicated to offer professional services to effectively help you sell your home,
but most importantly maximize your equity.

Fresh Ideas on How To Sell Your Home

2009-07-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

Sellers who have tried to sell a home lately, know that it can be tough right now. However, it is not impossible to sell your home. In fact, if you are willing to put in a little work you may be surprised at the outcome.

Open House- Many buyers plan on previewing an open house before they purchase a home. This is a great tool for getting potential buyers into your home, and most buyers use them as a way to see a home they are interested in without having to schedule an appointment. MySecretAgent has many useful ideas on holding an open house.

Use signs and flyers to advertise your open house. MySecretAgent allows sellers to purchase open house signs that direct buyers to your home. When listing with our full package you receive printed flyers that are also a great tool to advertise an open house

To help make your home look even more enticing and spacious, stage your home to look less cluttered and bigger. Staging your home can help add balance and appeal your home to buyers in ways that you likely never even considered. As a result, your home will stand out from the rest of the competition. MySecretAgent has many tips on how to stage your home.

Offer a home warranty- A home warranty can cover the cost to repair or replace many of your home’s systems and appliances. This is another small step that can help a potential buyer rest just a little easier at the thought of purchasing your home. It will also make your home stand out among the pack of other homes available for sale.

Consider letting a buyer stay in your home for a night- This is an "out there" idea but consider it if the potential buyers are worried about neighborhood noise levels. According to a recent article on bankrate.com, "some builders and sellers are offering prospective buyers a chance to stay in the home for a night. They’re even welcoming folks with bottles of wine and other goodies to make their stay comfortable."

Advertising your home

2009-07-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

Free Online Advertising Options
With our Full $495 Package you will have access to our list of FREE online advertising links – with step-by-step how to instructions – to Craigslist, Zillow and many more after you list your home.

Here are a few suggestions to advertise your home:

MLS and the Internet- 85% of buyers start looking for properties on the internet and provide a list of properties to their agent to schedule showings or call directly the listing agents for more information. The MLS is the number one tool for selling a property in the shortest possible time. Most buyers use real estate agents when buying a home, and 100% of all licensed real estate agents use the MLS. The NWMLS provides a direct internet feed to the websites of all of their member companies and individual agents. All properties that are listed on the MLS will be displayed,changes and updates will be posted to the listings on all of these linked real estate websites. Please note that the NWMLS is one of the few MLSs nationwide who discontinued to provide a direct feed to REALTOR.com®. Individual agents and offices are responsible to upload the information if they wish to provide their clients with the widest possible exposure.
Yard Sign- Included in in our $295 Extended Package and $495 Full Package. You can also choose to add this to our $95 Basic Package.
Flyers and Brochures- 50 glossy professionally printed flyers and a PDF version is included in our $495 Full Package. You can order professionally printed glossy flyers or brochures with the Basic or the Extended Packages, these will make a lasting impression on buyers who preview your home. Please see our Listing Tools.
Postcard Mailers
Newspaper Ads
Real Estate Magazines
Open House

You Got An Offer

2009-06-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

What do you do after you received an offer? Easy, visit MySecretAgent for the steps in a typical residential real estate closing.

How the offer is written up will determine the steps you have to take in order to give or take possession of the home.

Here are 10 steps in a typical residential real estate closing:

Offer presented to the seller.

Seller accepting the offer by signing or initialing necessary pages.

Open an escrow account; negotiate the escrow and title costs and sign preliminary instructions.

Secure financing and negotiate lender closing costs. (Buyer should be pre-approved)

Buyer should read and approve seller’s disclosures.

Buyer to obtain and approve property inspection, and approve other reports as needed.

Buyer to check title and remove contingencies from the offer.

Buyer to complete any remaining escrow work, and do the final walk through of the home.

Buyer to get funded by lender.

Sign the final escrow instructions (also called closing the escrow, transferring title).

Seller's Checklist

2009-06-15T09:33:00.000-07:00

Before listing your property:

Price your home competitively. If you need assistance please see Pricing Your Home or see our Listing Tools for a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

Gather all documents pertaining to your property to help you in the process of entering all information: Tax Record, Deed of Trust, or previous closing documents have the information you need, including the legal description and the official square foot for your property. Take your time to fill out all the fields to the best of your knowledge, it will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Our site is secure, all the information you provide to us, will be protected.

Select the photos that best represent your home and save them into a folder as jpeg for uploading. 1 image included in the Basic $95 Listing Package, 8 included in the Extended $295 Package, and the Full $495 Listing Package includes 15 images.

MySecretAgent provides you with 10 easy step SELLER'S CHECKLIST to follow when you list your home with us.

HOW TO ADVERTISE YOUR HOME

2009-06-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

With our Full $495 Package you will have access to our list of FREE online advertising links – with step-by-step how to instructions – to Craigslist, Zillow and many more after you list your home.

Our Full package also includes:

12 months on the MLS
15 photos
50 professionally printed glossy flyers,
PDF Flyer
Custom Sign with YOUR phone number and MLS printed directly on the sign
Post with Flyer Box
Unlimited Changes to your listing
YOUR home will be listed on Realtor.com with will give you National and Local Exposure
Free Advertising Links

Yes, you get all this for a ONE TIME flat fee of $495!WE ARE DEDICATED TO KEEP THE SELLER IN CONTROL OF THE SELLING PROCESS. HAVING YOU BE IN CONTROL ALOWS THE SELLER TO SAVE THOUSANDS IN COMMISSION!

Pricing Your Home

2009-06-09T14:15:00.000-07:00

Pricing Your Home

Finding a fair price for your home is the most important step for selling it fast

Naturally you want top dollar for your home,

However you do not want to scare off potential buyers by setting a price too high. Having your asking price too high may cause your home to sit on the market with no activity, and even if the buyer is willing to pay the price it might not appraise for that value in today’s market.

Reducing the price down the line may suggest to buyers there is something wrong with the home, pricing it right from the start will result in a faster sale.

We list your home on the NWMLS for a flat fee, thus help you maximize your equity in your property. Calculate Your Savings and see the difference.

Calculate YOUR Savings

2009-06-02T15:55:00.000-07:00

Take control of managing your spending during the sale of your home,
say NO to 6% commission.

Home sellers have been paying thousands of dollars in real estate commissions, thus leaving them less equity after the sale of their home. Today, these sellers are looking for alternative solutions.

With MySecretAgent.com you pay a one-time listing fee of $95, $295 or $495 to list your home on the MLS. Save thousands in real estate commission, Compare our services to a traditional commission agent.

If an agent brings you a buyer, you may offer that agent on average 2.5-3% commission, but remember, all commissions are negotiable. If you sell your home on your own you will save this amount too, saving you thousands more.

To calculate your savings logon to MySecretAgent.com

Tips on Holding an Open House

2009-04-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Holding and Open House is an effective way to show your home to neighbors and prospective buyers. MySecretAgent has some useful Open House Tips for you to look over before your next open house.

When you list with our FULL PACKAGE you will receive a list of FREE online advertising that will help you advertise your open house.

Remember to be aware of your surroundings and stay safe!

Home Selling Tips

2009-04-20T10:47:00.001-07:00

There is only ONE TIME to make a great first impression. A good looking and maintained home will get buyers out of the car and into your home!

MySecretAgent has many Home Selling Tips for YOU to take advantage of. We are dedicated not only to list your home on the MLS but truly give you all the resources to sell your home without a paying 6% (all commissions are negotiable) commission!

Two Ways Homeowners & Buyers Profit From New Stimulus Plan

2009-04-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

MySecretAgent would like to point out a couple of benefits from the new Housing Stimulus Plan that homeowners and buyers can take advantage of.

Expansion of Home Improvement Tax Credit-

The tax credit is UP 20% for making energy efficient home improvements. Before, homeowners were allocated to get a tax credit of only 10% (capped up to $500). Now homeowners can receive 30% (capped up to $1500) of the cost of making energy efficient home improvements. All improvements must pass the International Energy Conservation Code or have an Energy Star Rating.

Expansion of First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit-

For homes purchased between January 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009 the tax credit was increased from $7,500 to $8000. If the homeowners live in the home and do not move within three years the credit does not have to be paid back.

Are You Eligible For Obama's Refinance Plan?

2009-04-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

President Obama released new guidelines on March 4, 2009 for his "Making Home Affordable" initiative, that will help up to 9 million homeowners stay in their home through refinancing a mortgage or modifying a loan.

To be able to qualify one must:

Owe between 80-105% of a mortgage.
Have a loan backed up by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac
Have a conforming loan

If you would like more information please visit makinghomeaffordable.gov or MySecretAgent.com.

What is Flat Fee Listing Service?

2009-04-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

What is a Flat Fee listing service? It is a service that is similar to a traditional agent, I like to call it a modern agent, that allows YOU- the seller- to be in control of the selling process of your home. It also grants the seller to reap the benefits by saving equity! Who doesn't want that?! The seller DOES NOT pay 6% (all commissions are negotiable) by paying a ONE TIME flat fee. Do some of the work yourself and save money.

When you list your home with MySecretAgent you get all the essential tools that a traditional agent would provide. You get your home listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) which is the only source licensed real estate agents get to search homes. This will give YOU- the seller an advantage by having realtors have access to the information on your home. There are many more tools that you can take advantage of when you list your home. REMEMBER: Even if you take advantage of ALL the listing tools provided you will not pay more than $1200. This amount is much LESS than a percentage of the sale price of your home!

MySecretAgent is dedicated to offer professional services to effectively help you sell your home, but most importantly maximize YOUR profit.

Don't Become A Victim of Predatory Lending

2009-04-07T17:33:00.000-07:00

MySecretAgent.com has become aware of a trend that takes advantage of many first time homeowners and senior citizens called predatory lending. Take a moment to educate yourself so you will not become a victim.

Predatory lending is the practice of lenders, mortgage brokers and/or appraisers who use misleading appraisals to make the value of a home seem higher then it really is. There are many strategies lenders may use such as:

Promote buyers to lie about their income to get a loan
Lenders purposely giving out more money then a borrower can afford
Steering- charge high intrest rates based on their race, color or national origin and not on their credit history
Charge fees for unnecessary products or services
Influence borrowers to accept high risk loans
Convince homeowners to refinance over and over when there is no benefit to the borrower

Buying or refinancing a home may be one of the most crucial financial decisions you'll ever make. Unfortunately many unaware homebuyers become victims of predatory lending or loan fraud. Become aware of the tactics predators use so this will not happen to you! For more information visit HUD.gov. They have many free and low cost recourses you may take advantage of.