Real estate agents are licensed professionals who arrange real estate transactions, putting buyers and sellers together and acting as their representatives in negotiations. Real estate agents usually are compensated completely by a commission—a percentage of the property's purchase price, so their income depends on their ability to get a deal closed.

Buying a home is still considered a key aspect of the American dream. As a first-time buyer, you have access to state programs, tax breaks, and federally backed loans if you don't have the usual minimum down payment—ideally 20% of the purchase price for a conventional loan—or you're a member of a certain group (see the Important callout, below). And you may qualify as a first-time buyer even if you're not a novice.

Traditionally, an agent is paid a commission that is a percentage of the property’s sale price. The more the house sells for, the more money an agent makes. However, with online listings allowing consumers to do much of the shopping on their own without help from an agent, the traditional payment structure is changing.

Some brokerages charge a lower commission for more expensive houses, and some handle the entire transaction for a flat fee that’s much less than a regular commission. Other companies offer a fee-for-service pricing structure that lets sellers pay only for certain parts of the sale process, such as adding the property to a multiple listing service (MLS).

Carrollton is small town living with amenities and historic character. This charming ranch has lots to offer, including a 32x31 detached garage (wow),...

Move right into YOUR new home! This lovingly maintained, immaculate brick home is situated on a large, well landscaped and chain link fenced corner lo...

This stately 5 bed/4 bath home stands out among a crowd! Kitchen features large pantry plenty of cabinets, modern backsplash LG appliances. Master sui...

Real estate agents are licensed professionals who arrange real estate transactions, putting buyers and sellers together and acting as their representatives in negotiations. Real estate agents usually are compensated completely by a commission—a percentage of the property's purchase price, so their income depends on their ability to get a deal closed.

Ranch home with 16x32 in-ground pool, with robotic cleaning system included. Pool is surrounded by stamped concrete patio area and large deck, perfect...

Super sized kitchen with separate dining space, bar seating, ample cabinets and pantry. 4 Bedrooms, 2 full plus baths laundry room are on the main lev...

BIG PRICE REDUCTION! Need more space This 4 bedroom, 4 bath home on 3 acres has the breathing room you're looking for. Main floor bedroom with private...

Beautiful setting 10 Acres with road on 2 sides basement home is incomplete and could be finished to new owner's design. Basement is a complete pour a...

New pump in 2018 for inground pool. New hot water heater in 2018. There is a home warranty in place until September 2019....

WELCOME HOME! This adorable log cabin features everything you could want: offering a master area with bath, 2 bedrooms and bath on main level and 3rd ...

Buying a home is still considered a key aspect of the American dream. As a first-time buyer, you have access to state programs, tax breaks, and federally backed loans if you don't have the usual minimum down payment—ideally 20% of the purchase price for a conventional loan—or you're a member of a certain group (see the Important callout, below). And you may qualify as a first-time buyer even if you're not a novice.

Well built ranch home located in Jerseyville. This 4 bedroom, 3 bath home features open concept living, spacious rooms, and a large master suite. The ...

Great 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Ranch Home on Large Lot. Make yourself at home in this lovely home which features a spacious family room that opens up to a la...

This pristine home has been very well maintained. Over 1840 square feet of living space on the main level with a full dry basement. This home houses 3...

Traditionally, an agent is paid a commission that is a percentage of the property’s sale price. The more the house sells for, the more money an agent makes. However, with online listings allowing consumers to do much of the shopping on their own without help from an agent, the traditional payment structure is changing.

Some brokerages charge a lower commission for more expensive houses, and some handle the entire transaction for a flat fee that’s much less than a regular commission. Other companies offer a fee-for-service pricing structure that lets sellers pay only for certain parts of the sale process, such as adding the property to a multiple listing service (MLS).

Nice home with lots of space. Welcoming hearth room off of the kitchen. Two fireplaces, partially finished basement and 3 car garage. Motivated seller...

This well designed family residence is the perfect marriage of contemporary traditional. The bright, spacious and functional home is located on a doub...

Nice 3 bedroom home with 2 baths on main level. Full partially finished basement with living room and bathroom. 1 car attached garage, patio in back. ...

A realtor is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), a trade association. Both agents and brokers can be realtors, along with property managers, appraisers, and other real estate industry professionals. Realtors are expected to be experts in their field and must follow the NAR's code of ethics, which requires agents to uphold specific duties to clients and customers, to the public, and to other realtors. In addition to NAR, realtors must belong to a state or local real estate association or board.

All realtors are real estate agents or brokers (or something related), but not all agents or brokers are realtors, in other words. As of June 2020, the organization reported that it had 1.4 million members. Roughly 2/3's of members held real estate agent's licenses.

Gorgeous turn of the Century home on large corner lot. 3 bedrooms, bath and laundry room upstairs. Living room, dining room, kitchen, family room and ...

Subject to Rural Development approval. Being Sold AS IS, WHERE IS, no warranties, guarantees or repairs. Nice open floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths...

Come take a look at this spacious 4 bedroom, 3 bath ranch home which is tastefully decorated and situated on a large lot with fenced-in back yard and ...

BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION! Three bedroom, two full bath home can be customized to your preferences. Act fast to make this one yours!...

For sale by owner or FSBO is a term that refers to a specific method of selling a property. In an FSBO listing, the owner sells the property without the use of an agent or a broker. Sellers typically choose to sell their home on their own to avoid paying the real estate agent the commission for the transaction.