For sale by owner not sold through brokers each year (as of 2004). MSN Money suggests that 30% of homes are sold without using a real estate agent. More than half of the homes sold in Quebec are sold without an agent. In the UK, the average commission rate is significantly lower than in Canada or the US. Properties for sale by owner are less common. By law, all sales of property have to be supervised and handled by an independent solicitor who acts as a mediator and holds the buyer's money until the purchase process is finished. In Australia, the FSBO is still
Estate agent back. In both cases technology via MLS and idx means that sub agents collaborating can populate many more properties into their websites by working together. There are no formal qualifications required to become an estate agent, however local property knowledge and customer service skills are considered worthwhile. Estate agents are known for their unique way of putting a positive spin on their description of properties. For example, 'in need of modernisation' or 'excellent potential for improvement' may actually mean a great deal of repair work is required to a house; this is necessary to avoid offending any clients who may