Most home sellers understand the traditional real estate commission structure. The Listing Agreement provides for half of the (typically 6%) total commission to be paid to an agent bringing a buyer. If the buyer has no agent, however, the listing agent is entitled both sides – the entire 6% commission. The “double dip” opportunity built into the customary commission structure holds the potential for a serious conflict of interest between the listing agent and his/her client where there are two or more competing offers on the home. Don’t get sold out by your agent…

In many north-metro Atlanta sub-markets, like Brookhaven, Buckhead and Sandy Springs, single-family home sales have slowed; properties are staying on the market longer and sellers are dropping asking prices. Are home values falling or is it simply time for sellers to adjust their expectations?

A fun, but interesting question in the Halloween spirit: If your house is haunted, are you legally required to disclose the haunting to a prospective buyer?