By Mike Conway, Homeowner and Mortgage Broker
I have been a mortgage broker in the Denver real estate market for many years. 
I have seen good markets and bad. But,when it came to selling my own home in Littleton, I would only use the most qualified broker I could find to do it. I know selling by owner or getting a discount broker sounds like saving money. But, I don’t think so.
Of course, the lure to consider selling our last home in Denver by ourselves was there.We could have put a sign in the front yard and I am sure I would be able to close a transaction with a qualified buyer. Of course, I am already trained to qualify buyers so that wouldn’t be problem for me. But, it might for the average Joe. Even so, we decided only to consider interviewing the best brokers I had known in my real estate dealings.
We also considered a “discount broker”. Again, there was some appeal to “saving some commission”. But, as we analyzed our options it became increasing clear that we might not get as high a price or sell as quickly with a less experienced, limited-service agent.
So, we interviewed Larry and Elizabeth Hotz along with another broker I had known. The Hotzes presented a very comprehensive marketing plan that left no stone unturned. The internet presence, in particular, was outstanding. They even advertised in the local newspapers and other media. Plus, I know that a truly busy broker can publicize their own listings with their fellow brokers at The Kentwood Company and potential buyers they already know. We chose to list with Larry and Elizabeth.
Obviously, we made the right choice. In a market that “tightened-up” right before our very eyes, they encouraged us to remain patient and not over react. We were rewarded.
We feel lucky to have made this choice. They brought us two qualified buyers who submitted offers simultaneously. They guided us with expert advice that took full advantage of this situation. We ended up the best price possible. Then, they carefully guided through the delicate negotiations on the inspection issues. They certainly saved us money on that.
All and all, we know we received the highest possible proceeds, even after the commission, by using truly professional professional brokers. Our initial judgment was correct. There was no sense to “step over a dollar to pick up a dime”. We walked away with the most possible dollars in our pocket. We would enthusiastically recommend the Larry Hotz father/daughter team to any sellers in the Denver market. Please consider this our whole-hearted reference.
(Ed note: Mike is still originating mortgage loans in the Denver area. Feel free to contact him at 303-995-4050. By the way, his home sold for the highest price in his The Knolls that year.)
Excellent article. There is a big difference between listing a house, and marketing one. And given that many real estate markets are struggling – stepping over a dollar to pick up a dime is definitely short sighted.
Glad you had a great deal selling your home.
I’ve always though that applying for real estate broker services is cheaper and safer for both buyers and sellers. And I still do. Though most of people believe that paying a broker is a waste of money and try to sell/buy a house on their own. All in all it appears to be a never ending process and in the end they come to a broker. So, I think the first thing one should do before start is to find a good professional broker.