Realtor Wants Up-Front Money For Marketing

**Mike Kaiser** · 03-30-2011, 07:34 AM

I'm considering listing our home for sale with a Realtor who wants $12,000 for marketing costs. If the house sells, he will reimburse the $12k at closing.

This is the first time I've encountered this. Is it common practice?

**Joe Trusty** · 04-01-2011, 08:50 PM

It's not a good sign that they want 12 grand to advertise your listing. Any Agent worth their salt has an advertising allowance from their Broker or will finance the cost of advertising themselves. Asking for money up-front is a bit unusual but not unheard of. If I were you I'd make it a sticking point and tell him to put his money where his mouth is. If this agent was moving lots of homes and was very busy, their broker would absorb that cost no question.

If he persists and says he needs the money to advertise your place and you have confidence that he can do what he says, I'd still ask to see a marketing plan. Make sure you know what you're getting for your 12 grand. You might want to compare that info and shop it around with a local marketing firm yourself. Which all boils down to, are you doing this guys job for him?

**James_alex** · 04-05-2011, 03:17 AM

There are several agents that require money and for that, they always charge you on different services with high rates that is why it is better to look for those who are good in providing services and even dont charge you much.