Real estate broker: Friend or foe? Helpful hints to characterize the friend

A real estate broker is a term that describes a party who acts as an intermediary between sellers and buyers of real estate and attempts to find sellers who wish to sell and buyers who wish to buy. The successful real estate broker longs to establish a trusting, symbiotic and fiduciary relationship with their clients. Unfortunately, the perception of a broker is often misinterpreted as an overly aggressive and self-interested barrier which can lead to a combative relationship between owner and broker. This antagonistic relationship is not beneficial to either party. As a real estate broker for the last decade and a half, I am sure to take a markedly different approach to the marketing and selling of property which begins with fostering this important relationship. When I train my brokers I always remind them that the payment of a commission to the brokerage is contingent upon finding a satisfactory match between seller and buyer and facilitating the sale of that property. In the most simple of terminology, our commission is tied to a seller's satisfaction. It is my job to assist sellers in marketing their property and selling it for the highest possible price under the best terms. Although we are clearly experiencing a challenging real estate market, these simple five steps will assure seller success. Over the course of the recent stagnant real estate market in Long Island, following these techniques have helped facilitate the sale of 1103 Stuart Ave. located in Garden City. The seller placed value on appearance and was proud to sell his property at 100% occupancy. In addition, the seller and broker maintained an amicable and candid relationship and compiled information on financing which was readily available to potential buyers. With these key ingredients we were able to capture $9.6 million for the building. Here are some helpful hints from one broker who can definitely be characterized as the friend: Presentation is Pertinent If your residential property were on the market you would clean and stage prior to an open house. Treat your commercial property in a similar manner and respect its appearance. Similarly, have your property professionally photographed. People buy with their eyes and first impression over the Internet is crucial. These pictures represent the initial glimpse into your property. Vacancy is not Valuable Do not assume that all buyers can see the potential in your property. Prior to putting your property on the market convert vacancies into occupied performing space. Financing is Facilitating Contact a reputable mortgage lender to generate correspondence specialized to your investment property. These materials should display an array of loan programs that entice buyers fiscally. Marketing is Manageable Package as much information as possible and make it available to the purchaser. Keep it concise and clearly spell out amenities and special features. American is Able Choose the right brokerage firm to facilitate the sale of your property. American Investment Properties has prevailed as the leader of commercial real estate on Long Island. With a profound understanding of today's economic climate, American Investment Properties relies on its experience and knowledge to successfully match the right buyer and seller. With its aggressive and competitive buyers, expertise and commitment to the sale of commercial real estate, American Investment Properties has triumphed as the principal in commercial real estate on Long Island. Ron Koenigsberg is the president of American Investment Properties, Garden City, N.Y.