As gas prices continue to rise, I can't help but contemplate how it will affect the way real estate agents  will conduct their business in the future.     No longer will agents be so anxious to hop in the car to go show a home without pre-qualifying the buyers.  There will most likely be a trend toward more diligent research to match buyers with listings.   And, buyers will probably want to spend more time online doing research instead of  "driving neighborhoods".

Contrary to the opinion of some, real estate agents are not generally overpaid.   I wouldn't be surprised if a study was done analyzing gross commissions then deducting expenses and factoring hours worked, many agents would fall below the minimum hourly wage level.  That may seem surprising, but not all that unlikely.   

Considering we are expected to be on-call 12-14 hours per day, I'm thinking of putting a "Dr." in front of my name and raising my fees!      Just kidding.    My fees for sellers is  negotiable and there is never a fee charged to buyers. 

For professional real estate service contact:
Carol@TopPropertiesWenatchee.com
http://TopPropertiesWenatchee.com